The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • Nigeria leads globally in English Bible distribution

    Nigeria leads globally in English Bible distribution

    The Bible Society of Nigeria (BSN) has been recognized as the global leader in bible distribution, with the distribution of 897,116 copies of the English Bible in 2020.

    General Secretary/ Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of BSN, Pastor Samuel Sanusi made this known during a media facility tour of BSN Deaf Translation Centre in lbadan, Oyo State.

    Sanusi said that a publication by the United Bible Societies (UBS), showed that BSN was leading the world in Bible distribution followed by the Bible Society of Australia which came a distant second with 426, 318 Bibles distributed.

    “This is followed by the U.S. with 403, 210, China 157, 946, Kenya, 109, 807 and South Africa 96, 257.

    “In ranking by region, Africa came third out of the seven Areas,/Regions of the (UBS).

    “Central and South America came first, distributing 11.1million full Bibles , followed by Asia with 6.2 million, Africa 5.9million, Europe 5.1 million and North America 1.7 million..

    “Oceania 0.64 million and Middle East 0.17 million. Out of the 5.9 million distributed by Africa, Nigeria did 1.5 million copies or 25.42 per cent of what over 40 Bible Societies in Africa distributed,” Sanusi said.

    The CEO said that the 57 -room Bible Guest House, Research and Development Centre was dedicated on June 8, 2016.

    He said that the house was established with a loan facility from their parent body at little or no interest.

    “Apart from the rooms, we have a translation office , our biggest Bible warehouse, three halls and an e- library.

    “Our main objective of establishing this guest house is to plough back the profit made here into our capital – intensive Bible translation,” Sanusi said.

    Sanusi called on the government, and well-meaning Nigerians to support both morally and financially, concerned organisations in their effort to give hope to the physically challenged, many of who are greatly talented, but are denied attention, adding that giving them a little exposure has proved that there is ability in disability.

    Sanusi who during a facility tour disclosed that BSN in collaboration with the Deaf Opportunity Outreach International, Kenya and Presbyterian Church started a project to meet the spiritual and mental need of the deaf with a view to restoring to them a full life and also grant them the opportunity to display their inherent talents.

    “Our collaboration culminated in the unveiling of the first Nigerian Sign Language Bible for the deaf and I want to say that the Deaf Translation is far more expensive than the regular Bible at a cost of over N80 million.

    “This Guest House, Research and Development Centre was dedicated and established with a loan facility from our parent body.

    “I am happy that now we can meet the spiritual needs of the deaf, the blind and the sighted.

    “They are part of us and should not be left in the scheme of things.  Unfortunately, when policies are being formulated, sometimes, no one speaks for them and their interest are not considered” he said.

  • CHARLES UKEJE: The world is my laboratory

    CHARLES UKEJE: The world is my laboratory

    Charles Ukeje is a Professor of International Relations and Chairman Obafemi Awolowo University 60th anniversary planning Committee. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, he speaks about Insecurity, battling Nigeria’s image on the international scene, how to mentor young people to be patriotic and honouring 60 outstanding alumni who have made significant contributions to the nation and the African continent.

    TELL us about life as a professor of International Relations?

    I have been a Professor of International Relations for close to a decade. The world is my laboratory and you know that the world is constantly changing. And so you need people that can make intelligent sense of the changes, what are the factors that shape the changes, define the changes and what are the alternative changes. So, I think for me, it has been an exciting opportunity to be at the forefront especially with the issues governing security and the continent.

    Talking about security, Nigeria has a great security challenge.  What advice do you have for the government?

    I think that principally we need to put citizens at the centre of any security Enterprise. If you put a police or military at the center of security discourse, then you miss an opportunity to address a fundamental problem. Ultimately, government is there for citizens.  So, we need to put citizens at the middle of all our conversations, rethink the whole process, rethink the discourse and rethink our interventions.

    The social media showcase a lot of the negatives, how can this be reduced?

    In every one negatives in the social media, you have hundreds of positives. So, rather than focus on the negatives, let us focus on the positives, so that they can crowd out the negatives eventually. I do recognize that the social media is full of the good, the bad and the ugly. We need to own our own narratives. If you don’t tell your stories, others are going to start with secondly, and they will miss out the first part. We all have responsibilities, the different stakeholders in the Nigerian project. To own our own narratives, to say it rather than allow other people to tell it.

    You work with a number of young people, have you been mentoring them in this regard?

    I am also a product of very good mentoring and mentorship. So, I can afford to give you what have.  So, I give what I have to my students because I have had very good mentoring, and I see my students thrive.  I have been teaching students since 1992 and I have students all over the world. I meet them in different places, I continue to support them, even about the basic survival in the world we live in today. I am very happy that I get results because my students are doing very well.

    Why did you study International Relations?

    I think it’s the curiosity.  I always wanted to see the world and looking back 29 years after it has not been bad. I have had the opportunity of travelling to several continents around the world and I think that the best form of education is the one you interact with people from different cultures and orientations. My dad was a foundation staff at the university.  So, I grew up in the university community.  I see lecturers and staff of the university travel, go abroad and come back with beautiful cars and who doesn’t like that kind of good life. My dad wanted me to be a pharmacist because he was a pharmacist. But I chose my path. My mum worked in the catering services of the university but she is retired.

    Tell us about your assignment as the Chairman of 60th anniversary planning Committee?

    My assignment is very simple.  I knew it was a call to service and Ife is in my DNA. Also, as a call to Service, I knew I had to rise up to the occasion.  And looking back over the last couple of months has been rewarding. It also has been possible for me to leverage on my connections with the Goodwill of the university and there is virtually none that I cannot talk to about the need to support the university.  And more often than not, they listen to me and that is very heartwarming.

    What is the criteria used in selecting the 60 awardees that will be honored?

    I have to say that it was a very difficult task to reach, for an institution that been existing for 60 years and as I told you we have been everywhere. Our students are everywhere, our old boys and girls are everywhere around the world and they are at the cutting edge of their different profession. It’s been a difficult thing to choose 60 people out of the whole lot. But I can assure that when you see the 60 that have been selected you will really know why Ife is great.

    Tell us about the activities for anniversary?

    The different faculties had different technics to showcase what they have done over the years and to tell us what they plan to do in the years to come. In deed as I speak to you, only last week the institute of agric research and training in Ibadan came all the way from Ibadan to celebrate Ife because they are proud of us. So we have all of these happening. The National Institute of  Museum in Ife is by the way perhaps one of the best in the whole of West Africa, and only last week had  a celebration not just on the 60th anniversary but also the 50th anniversary for the establishment of the museum.  So we are having so many different activities, all the faculties in the university are doing this. But I want to also note one activity that is also a signature activity, from December 1 to January 30th, for 60 days, we will be having an art exhibition at Obafemi Awolowo University. We call it the 60 by 60, we have invited 60 alumnus from the university to showcase one art work each that best represent them and we are going to have it over 60 days. So that is why we call it 60 by 60 by 60. That event is going to start on December 1 and continues until January 30th 2022. I served on the selection committee for the shortlisting, we received over 150 entries of art works from very distinguished artists all over the world, who have affiliation to the department of fine arts. It was a very difficult task for us to be able to have a shortlist of 60.

    What are some of the fallout of the Celebrations?

    We decided to put our alumni at the centre of the celebrations from start and from different parts of the world, where 2 or 3 Ife’s gather, they are celebrating the university and putting it on the social media.  There are beautiful photographs and beautiful events all over the world. We are excited about this.  What is left is for us to begin to harvest from all of this activities, for them to begin to reach out. And it is very encouraging, what we have been able to get in. We would like to encourage others.

    How can the alumni assist and be involved in these initiatives?

    I have to say that in my position as the chair of the 60th anniversary celebration, I have had conversations with 100s of old boys and girls alumni of the university. There are two categories, those who say oh, I didn’t realise I could do this, innocently. And you cannot blame them. I didn’t realise that this is possible, I didn’t realise that we can do this. And now they are committed to it, they are signing up to it. Of course, we also have the second category that says that I can only wait for Ife to ask me before I come forward. So while we encourage the first category, we are also reaching out to those second category that feels that their university should come to them.

    We tell them that do not wait for what your university can do for you, do not wait for your university to call upon you, stand up in your different positions, reach out to your department, reach out to your faculties, reach out to the university and ask what can I do? Sometimes it is not just about the money that you will bring out from your pocket but the leverage that you are taking to exercise by virtue of the position that you occupy. And our old boys and girls are in the forefront of different fields, we believe that we can leverage and get them to do a lot of things in support of the university. As I speak to you the African Import Export Bank under its leadership has approached the university, we are working together to set up a centre on intra African trade zone. You know that the African Continental Free Trade Zone was signed, Ife is going to be the lead hub supported by African Import Export Bank for research training within the continent around issues of trade. We are in touch with them and we are hopeful of good things. So in the new year this institute will be launched. So this is the model, this is what we want our old boys and girls to do, this is what we want our alumni committee to do wherever they are around the world, to step forward and say what can I do for the university. I am hopeful that when the story of the 60th anniversary committee is written as many as 100s of thousands of our old boys and girls their names will be on that list.

    Has the university got support from kind-hearted Nigerians?

    I will like to say that the distance of the University from places like Lagos has not been  an hindrance. I can put it on record that we have benefited from the magnanimity from individuals across the country ,that have seen the immense opportunity in terms of coming to support whether to build hostels, to drill boreholes, to engage in other business activities within the university. We also want to use the opportunity of this 60th anniversary to ask for more favour. I think we are constantly creating the right atmosphere for people to be able to come. If you are looking for a university that has tried to do what you call ease of business, Ife should be one of those.

  • KELECHI OGHENE: My serial enterpreneur mother inspired me

    KELECHI OGHENE: My serial enterpreneur mother inspired me

    Princess Kelechi Oghene is a super model turned designer. Over the years, she has also mentored a number of upcoming designers and empowered them with the necessary skills. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talks about her life as a model, inspiration from her mother who is a serial entrepreneur, opportunities in the sector, mentoring young people and more.

    YOU are getting ready for the 2021 edition of the GMYT award. What is unique this year?

    This year, we have taken our scholarship slots to another level to train 250 women for free in 2022. Our nomination system this year is running on a higher level and we were able to attract top sponsors and well-to-do Nigerians. We have also taken it upon ourselves to empower more Nigerians which is why we not only opened slots to empower more women, but we included it in our benefits as our sponsors have slots to train women for free through their CSR.

    What was the experience last year during the lockdown?  What are some of the things you did differently?

    Lockdown taught me a great lesson which is “There’s no excuse for failing”. A lot of people were giving up, but all I was thinking about was how to be innovative and move ahead of the current situation, which I did. Right now GMYT fashion academy has an online learning platform with documented class videos, an online payment platform, structured grading, and a lecture tracking system that works amongst others. All these are courtesy of the lessons learned from the pandemic.

    What inspired you to go into fashion?

    I was inspired by my mother as she was also a serial entrepreneur. Since my childhood days, from watching my mother run several businesses and doing them well, I realized that fashion is what I could do best. So, I decided to go into it while I was still in school. I started small by having a mini boutique and expanding it over the years into a bespoke fashion house, Gmyt Fashion Academy, Gmyt Hostel Apartments, Gmyt Foundation, and Gahawards. Indeed it had been a journey

    You were a model. What are your memories of modeling?

    Being a model for 9yrs alongside entrepreneurship and schooling was indeed a memorable one. It wasn’t a big deal as my mum groomed me to multitask just like herself. I enjoyed every bit of the experience, especially being paid for a hobby.

    If you compare life as a model and as a designer, which do you treasure most?

    Modeling for me was just a hobby, fashion to me is life. All successful business I have built is carved around fashion, as a fashionprenuer I have always treasured my life from creating/designing apparel for clients to impacting my business knowledge to prospective designers is the best thing that has ever happened to me.Living a life of service, grooming and nurturing aspiring fashion designers on a daily basis. Seeing our students out there making waves gives me nothing but absolute satisfaction. I alone cannot change the world, but I can cast a stone across the water to create many ripples.

    What are some of the challenges you encountered?

    The challenges of managing opinionated people aren’t easy, coupled with running at a loss sometimes in business, also constant thinking and creativity to keep up with trends, and giving the students of Gmyt fashion academy the best.  At times, I feel like giving up but because I am committed and relentless to what I signed up for, I keep pushing. The life of an entrepreneur has never been rosy though it’s worth it hence we can’t complain, it is what we prayed for so am certain it will only get better.

    Tell us about some of the memorable moments in your life and career?

    Some of the memorable moments of my life and career is acquiring a state-of-the-art fashion academy and a bigger hostel facility for our students, even though I still want to expand. But so far, being able to get conducive and ensuite classrooms and apartments for the students is a memorable experience for me.

    What are some of the changes you would like to see in the sector?

    I want to see the government support brands like Gmyt fashion academy who have taken it upon herself to train and empower women for free through the foundation because it’s not easy. This is because the fashion market is so large and sustainable, and it can help in curbing the challenges of unemployment in Nigeria.

    Tell us about your experience empowering and mentoring upcoming designers?

    My experience empowering and working with upcoming designers has been amazing and challenging at the same time. As you know, I’m a philanthropist, and I know I can give back to society, so I am not seeing the challenging part but the result it has yielded so far. The beneficiaries of the several Gmyt fashion academy empowerment initiatives are all doing well in their respective fields. Those I have mentored and given tips are at the top of their game and that’s a lot of experience for me. I’m not stopping any time soon.

    What are some of the other things that occupy your time?

    I spend a lot of time making researches, it is part of me and I do that a lot. I keep looking for ways and means to be innovative and better. That’s basically what occupies my time.

    What are the new areas that you are looking at?

    I am looking at having a Gmyt fashion university, where I intend to take fashion to a whole new level in Nigeria.

    Let’s talk about the people you admire?

    I admire people who put in a lot of work and creativity in what they are doing. I admire people I can learn from because I am always open to learning new things.

    Who or what do you consider as the greatest influence in your life?

    My Mum, her entire being influenced me positively into what I am today, as you know the economic system in Nigeria is not only relentlessly harsh; it is sadistically cruel. Society has deemed that your school degrees do not guarantee you job opportunities, she knew these and made sure all her kids were hands-on skills because we didn’t know what the future holds, am grateful to God that she did.

    What is your definition of style?

    Style to me is the way I express myself which is being simple and yet classy.

    How would you assess the sector today?

    The opportunities in the fashion sector are yet to be untapped, so I can give my assessment based on the lucrative opportunities within. It’s what it, I must say as it is ever dynamic and always better.

    What message do you have for young people who want to go into the sector?

    Don’t just go into a business because someone is into it. Have the passion for it first. Start small; just like I’ll tell my students, you don’t need millions of naira to start a fashion business. Learn to save or go into a partnership if you can’t afford to do it alone. Bear in mind, that entrepreneurship is not easy, don’t assume that just because someone is carrying it well means it is easy. Entrepreneurship is hard work.  If your strength is a 9- 5 build on it, invest in yourself to develop that, and be the best at it. Everyone must not be an entrepreneur.

  • Indonesia, US, UK, others seek global peace at The Experience 2021

    Indonesia, US, UK, others seek global peace at The Experience 2021

    Most prominent pastors have rendered prayers to God for the world, thanking Him for sparing the earth from great damage resulting from the COVID-19 disease and from other vices threatening the peace and existence of all.

    They offered prayers of increase, restoration and blessings on the world as they joined millions of people all over the world at The Experience ’16 (Global Edition) held on December 3, 2021.

    Offering prayer of thanksgiving, the Co-Chair, Bethany Church of God, Jakarta, Indonesia, Dr Younghoon Lee, reading from Isaiah 33:3, urged all believers to proclaim God’s praise and expect his spirit to flood through all the earth.

    He said: “The people that I formed for myself, they may proclaim my praise. Worshipping God is the reason we exist. It is the reason we are saved. This is why we have to worship God with all our hearts. It is my sincere hope that all who truly worship God in this programme will have an experience in God’s presence indeed. All nations will be shaken by the power of the holy spirit through the worship at the Experience ’16.”

    Also praying, the Senior Pastor, New Life Covenant Church, Harare, Zimbabwe, Bishop Tudor Bismarck, said: “I am telling you that people’s lives will be changed, destinies have been designed. Every nation will feel the very tangible, physical presence of God.”

    On his part, the Senior Pastor, Jakarta Praise Community Church, Indonesia, Pastor Jeffrey Rachmat, urged all the participants to take the opportunity to offer direct offerings to God, stating that ‘the world would not be the same again after the experience.”

    The Senior Pastor, The Tab Church, London and Borough, Dean, Board of the College of Council, London, UK, Pastor Mike White, said we can make a sound to choose worship over worship. Our God is still on the throne and still on the throne.

    In another prayer session, President of Voice of Adonai Ministries International and senior pastor of Adonai Christian Centre, Dr. Kole Akinboboye said that a revival would soon break out in Nigeria that would affect the rest of the world.

    According to him, it would make Nigeria come alive.

    “When the civil war ended, a revival broke out in this country and many are products of that revival. Now, another cycle of fifty years is about to come and the revival is about to break out.

    “The revival will lead to a transformation of the nation and the continent of Africa. I believe that is going to happen. The hour has come for the dead to hear the voice of the lord and come alive. Nigeria is coming alive,” he said.

    The Past Senior Pastor, Leader of Kensington Temple, London, Apostle Colin Dye, in his part, prayed that there would be an outpouring of God’s spirit and supernatural manifestation in the world.

    The Senior Pastor and Founder, The Potter’s House, Dallas, USA, Bishop TD Jakes, urged all participants to open up and expect a miracle as they worship God ‘in spirit and in truth’.

    Also praying, the Chair, Empowerment 2021, Asia Cabinet and Senior Pastor, Bethany Church of God, Jakarta, Indonesia, Dr Niko Njotorahardjo, encouraged all Pentecostal churches to come together and form a unified force that would reach out to heaven and provoke a change from God for our world.

    On her part, International Worship Leader, Senior Pastor, Hope Unlimited Church, Central Coast of New South Wales, Australia, Pastor Darlene Zschech, Composer, honouring everyone who was participating said: “Our God doesn’t see crowd or location, but he sees every single individual. He is a God not just to be known in our heads or even in our hearts, but one who is to be experienced. I pray in this season that you encounter him in a way that will leave you changed forever.

    “I pray in the mighty name of Jesus that when you leave the experience that you would be so alive and on fire with the fire and love of Jesus Christ that you would literally change the world that you live in.”

    The Senior Pastor, Jesus House for all Nations, The Redeemed Christian Church of God, London, UK, Pastor Agu Irukwu, said: “We are all one family. 180 countries united for our love for Christ. We worship him on this platform and this time we are privileged to be part of The Experience ‘16 Global. We are grateful to God for how he is using Nigeria to impact the world at this time.”

    For British Singer, songwriter and Broadcaster, Minister Muyiwa Olarewaju (Obe), On behalf of the 700 Club and CBN and also Premier Radio here in the UK, he commended the sacrifice of the conveners, Pastors Paul and Ifeanyi Adefarasin, noting that their sacrifices have changed the world.

    “This is a bridge for African and the rest and the world. Africa is a cross-pollinating idea with America and Europe as we praise God together. COVID-19 would have silenced all of us if not God. Do as the songwriter say, ‘I will not be silent. I will always worship you.’ Whether you are in America, Dubai, Zimbabwe, Qatar… Wherever you are, let us lift our voices together. Let the heaven hear us, and let the earth reverberate with the praises of our soon-coming king,” he added.

  • My 10-month-old baby reason I’ve not committed suicide – Amputee impregnated, dumped by Facebook lover

    My 10-month-old baby reason I’ve not committed suicide – Amputee impregnated, dumped by Facebook lover

    For Cynthia Amaka Okoro, a 28-year-old graduate of Physics and Electronics, life has not been fair. Amputated as a student and impregnated by an abusive partner, she now lives in utter despondency. Gbenga Aderanti writes.

    Her facial appearance portrays her as one of the beautiful models advertising firms would love to introduce to their clients as the face of their beauty products. There is indeed no way anyone without a hint on her life story would imagine the vicissitudes of life she has had to pass through. Cynthia Okpara, a 28-year-old graduate of Physics and Electronics from Imo State Polytechnic, Umuagwo, became an amputee while she was still a student of the school. As if that was not enough, an abusive partner got her pregnant and she was thereafter rejected and disowned by her mother.

    While she is grateful to her friend, who has been gracious to take her in as a squatter, she says the thought of suicide has not stopped crossing her mind and is only being held back by fear of what would become of her 10-month-old baby.

    Her plight began in 2013 when she was involved in an accident while returning from school.

    A medical report from the Imo State University Teaching Hospital, signed by orthopaedic surgeon, Dr. Okafor Bonny, noted that Cynthia was brought to the hospital on February 20, 2013 with the examination done on her showing a mangled left lower limb with no distal pulse present.

    The report added: “The limb was looking pale and extremely cold. So a diagnosis of left lower limb gangrene extending to the proximal thigh was made. The patient had an above-knee amputation of the left lower limb on the 2nd of March 2013.

    “Patient was managed for three weeks and discharged in satisfactory condition on crutches.”

    Cynthia recalled that while she was in the hospital, she enjoyed so much support from her parents, especially her father. Unfortunately, her father, who she regarded as her best friend, died; a situation she said caused her to regret coming into the world.

    She said: “When I look at my situation, my child is the only reason why I’m alive. I would have since ended my own life. My condition is making me to think of committing suicide.”

    Asked what the problem was as she repeatedly gasped for breath while speaking with our correspondent, she said: “I have ulcer and malaria and I have also been stooling blood.”

    Romance gone awry

    For Cynthia, getting amputated was bad, but getting pregnant for a partner she described as abusive was worse. Describing the one year she spent with her partner Okpara, whom she met on Facebook, as miserable, Cynthia recalled how she cried every night and repeatedly asked herself how she found herself in such a mess.

    She recalled that for four months after their first meeting on Facebook, they engaged each other in animated chats. She said she was honest enough to tell Okpara about her physical condition but he did not believe her until they met physically about four months later.

    While they were dating, she recalled that it was love all the way; adding that as soon as she got pregnant, the love that Okpara professed for her literally disappeared.

    She said: “My leg had already been amputated before we met. When we eventually met physically, he said he never knew I was telling him the truth about my leg. We chatted for like four months before I eventually met him.”

    Things would probably have been better if they had any mutual friends, but that was never the case, as they never allowed anybody in their space and neither of them took the other to meet their family members.

    Not long after they met physically, Cynthia said she started staying with Okpara late in 2019 and become pregnant in 2020.

    Cynthia’s mother was exasperated when she realised that her daughter was pregnant and decided that she would not allow her to remain in the family house. The only option left for Cynthia in the circumstance was to stay with Uche, which she eventually did.

    “I have tried to call her and many people have also tried on my behalf but she refused to take me back,” Cynthia said of her mother.

    Reminiscing on her life with Okpara, she said: “His name is Okpara. I was visiting him and along the line, I got pregnant for him and his character changed. He started beating me any time I made any slight mistake.

    “The only time he saw his son was when I gave birth to him. And ever since, he has not seen him.

    “Okpara is a hot-tempered person. He might come and say I did not cook for him and he would start beating me.

    “At times, somebody might have offended him before he came home and he would transfer the aggression to me.

    “He might even come home and see something somewhere; he would start shouting and asking me why I didn’t remove it and it would lead to him beating me again.”

    Cynthia said she never bothered to report what was going on to anyone because it never occurred to her to do so. The only intervention she got was from neighbours who advised her to stay away from Okpara because it appeared as if he never loved her and Cynthia was the one forcing herself on him.

    She said: “Neighbours told me that the boy did not love me and that I should go. They said it seemed as if I was forcing myself on him. Eventually, I thought they could be right, so I later decided to leave.”

    She is however worried that for more than one year now, she has not been able to contact her former heartthrob and she does not know any of Okpara’s family members she can talk to.

    “He never took me to his village while we were together. He only told me that he was from Abia State,” she said.

    She also said she has not been able to access her Facebook account through which she could have reached him, because it was blocked when it was discovered that the account was about to be compromised.

    It was the Facebook account that she was using to raise appeal from well-meaning Nigerians.

    “The phone number I used in opening the Facebook account is also lost. I later went to the MTN office to retrieve the line. They said the name they were seeing on the line was not my name.

    “I explained to them that it was my line and it was the time I had an accident that I couldn’t go out, so I sent my younger sister to go and register the MTN number for me. The MTN people insisted that the girl must be the one to go and retrieve it.”

    She said she made several efforts to make her sister help her in retrieving the line but to no avail. “I don’t know,” she said with a gesture of frustration.

    “Out of frustration, I returned to my mum’s place but my mother couldn’t accommodate me. She said I should go back to the person that impregnated me and that I couldn’t stay in her house. She said I was a disgrace. I pleaded with her but she refused.”

    Reprieve however came her way when her sister invited her to come and stay with her. She said that was where she stayed till she gave birth.

    “Out of frustration, I deleted Okpara’s number from my phone. And when the SIM got lost, I could not retrieve it because of an identity problem

    “When I gave birth, the guy (Okpara) came begging me that he wanted me back. I later went back but he didn’t change his character. He continued beating me even while I was breastfeeding the baby. I later packed my things and returned to my elder sister’s house.”

    Unfortunately, her elder sister refused to take her back, saying that even the first time she accommodated Cynthia, her husband did not like it.

    “She told me that her husband said I should not come to the house again. She advised me to start looking for a place to stay.”

    With the foregoing situation, Cynthia started making contacts on Facebook. Fortunately, she met a lady who was ready to accommodate her.

    “She asked me if I could come to Lagos and I said yes. Eventually, I came to Lagos,” she said.

    “I did beg on Facebook or on the streets. From the little money I was able to gather, I started selling meat pie.”

    But her reprieve was short-lived because after staying a while, the lady in question told her that she wanted to get married, hence she should look for another accommodation.

    Cynthia called one of her ex-schoolmates for assistance and “she agreed that I should come to her house. She is living with her aunt. She said she had seen my posts on Facebook. That was how I went back to Orlu, Imo State where I’m currently staying.”

    How accident altered her life

    Cynthia recalled that she was hit by a vehicle while she was returning home from school on a motorcycle. For close to a year after, she was in the hospital and her leg was eventually amputated.

    She, however, did not allow that to deter her as she continued with her education until she graduated from the institution in October 2016.

    The second born of the family, Cynthia has six other siblings. She disclosed that her father’s support and encouragement was massive and it kept her going. He was a tax official until his death, she recalled.

    Cynthia is currently battling ulcer on account of which she is stooling blood.

    “Since my partner kicked me out, I have not had any contact with him. I actually deleted his number and I later lost that line. He too did not bother to call me.

    “I’m sick and I have taken drugs but they have not been working. Right now, I’m stooling blood.”

    “When I look at my situation, my child is the only reason why I’m alive. I would have ended my life. This condition is making me to think of committing suicide.

    Cynthia does not want to depend on people for the rest of her life. She would like to work and do business if she gets assistance

    She told The Nation that she could sell clothes if she has people to support her.

    “I’ve stopped going to church. I’m tired of going to church. Ever since I started going to church what has that done to my life? I’m no longer interested in going to church.

    “I prayed and prayed and nothing changed. I don’t pray anymore.”

    “I’m calling on all Nigerians to help me so that I can get an artificial leg that can enable me to walk well, and also help me get a shelter and financial empowerment so I can start up a better business and return to Lagos.

    “It was on July 11, 2021, the lady accommodating me told me to leave, that she would be relocating to her husband’s house on the 13th. She said she had given me enough time to get a place to stay and that I was the one delaying her.

    “It was then I started making calls and luckily, one of my classmates called me and said she heard my story. I explained to her that I was stranded and that was how she asked me to come down to her place with the promise that she would welcome me if I can make it down to the East. This was what led me to return to the East.

    I have always had two businesses on my mind which I will love to delve into if I have the resources, namely a boutique or a spa. I really need the help of Nigerians. Account name: Cynthia Chiamaka Okoro. Account number: 6456545011, FCMB.

  • We’re out to redefine beautiful – Olatawura

    We’re out to redefine beautiful – Olatawura

    Laserderm Aesthetics Academy, a member of the Laserderm Group has said its aim is to redefine the word beautiful and generally revolutionise the beauty industry in Nigeria and Africa.

    Its Chief Operating Officer, Omolade Olatawura made this declaration at it’s open day held recently at the institution’s posh premises on Victoria Island, Lagos.

    According to Olatawura, “The goal at Laserderm Aesthetics Academy is to redefine the aesthetics practice in Africa, by providing quality education while imbibing a culture of discipline, good work ethics and exceptional customer service.”

    According to the COO, who said she does not wear makeup, the company, which pays specific attention to clients’ skin to help them have healthy and fantastic skin, boasts of doctors, nurses and aestheticians, who are trained abroad on ground to attend to clients and patients.

    “We realised that a lot of quacks are out there doing all sorts of things. I learnt some even do facials for 2000 naira; those are not skilled; they’re not analysing people’s skin to know the kind of product that is right for them. And that is why we started Laserderm Aesthetics Academy; we call it LA for short, where we train people to become professionals.”

    She further informed that the academy only offers thorough well-grounded course, as against crash courses that are commonplace in the industry. “Our courses rage from three to four months and the goal is to give that professional touch and put a little bit of structure around the industry.”

    Olatawura said the academy, which was birthed February, 2021, also has facilities in Ikeja and Accra.

    Notably, she announced that the academy has global recognition, having been accredited by American Aesthetic International; we are partners with the British Medical laser Association, Oracle in South Korea and Pastiche in New Zealand.

    Courses offered by the academy include, Cosmetic Science, Manual Facials, Microdermabrasion, Anatomy and Physiology for Beauty therapists, Advanced Skin Peeling, Wound healing, Microneedling and laser therapy; and the minimum entry qualification is a GCE or SSCE with science background.

    Head of school, Omotoke Ajakaiye said opportunities abound in the industry, as graduates can work in large chain hotels, clinics, spas or as freelancers home and abroad.

     

  • Street children: Catholic priests raise the alarm with movie

    Street children: Catholic priests raise the alarm with movie

    Like a ticking time bomb, so is the swelling number of streets children across Nigeria. Although the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) says the exact number of street children is unknown, a United Kingdom-based charity, ‘Street Children’ pegs the figure as way above the estimated 100 million globally. In Nigeria, it is becoming a major concern as the number is swelling by the day. In this report, Evelyn Osagie writes on the worrisome trend and how some Catholic Priests are getting involved in salvaging the situation.

    AIMABLE and his younger brother Timothée were once part of the growing population of street children.

    They used to spend their nights sleeping on the side of the road. Every day of the past seven years was a struggle to survive for the two boys. Without any security, the two boys had been living on the streets of Burundi’s capital city of Bujumbura, sleeping on boxes and asking strangers for money to buy food.

    According to the story as told by UNICEF’s Nicholas Ledner, they had left home simply because their father lost his job and their family had no money to feed the two oldest children, with Aimable feeling responsible for his little brother. “One time, I tried to defend my brother from other street children, but got beaten up,” he said. And at other times, he would bribe them with 100 francs to leave them both alone.

    Even though Aimable and his younger brother are based in Burundi, their story is no different from street children in Nigeria. Both brothers have since reunited with their family and are attending primary school, thanks to the UNICEF-supported Kabondo Football for Hope Centre. But millions of such children are not that fortunate.

    There is a growing concern over the swelling populations of street children. Although the United Nations Children Fund (UNICEF) says the exact number of street children is unknown, the number varies from state to state.

    Many street children are, however, being abused daily by adults, including government officials and the police, other children, and even their families. They are also denied access to education and healthcare, which is their right. In a state like Lagos, where begging or loitering is frowned at, they can face all forms of harassment just for trying to survive.

    “The growing number of street children and the Almajiris in the North is indeed worrisome. Only three years ago, the government in the North was worried over the issue of Almajiris and wanted the kids to go to their respective states to beg. UNICEF was strongly part of this programme. I moved from here to Kaduna. 60,000 children were returned to Kaduna State from Sokoto and Jigawa in one day. 30,000 were returned to Kano the following week. 19,000 returned to Bauchi.  A state like Lagos where people work, we’re very sure we don’t have this category of children. Street children are also in Lagos State; but their issues are different from the Almajiris,”

     

    Concerns over street children population

    Moved by the plights of the children, among other displaced children due to crises, some Catholic clergy, under the auspices of Salesian Priests of Don Bosco, have raised alarm over the growing population and dangers it poses to the rest of the country.

    “There were over 100,000 street children who are vulnerable to negative societal issues, such as violence, sexual abuse, trafficking and crime. This situation is a ticking time bomb, which requires concerted efforts by local and international stakeholders for the rehabilitation of street children. The more these children are increasing on the street and not going to school or nobody to care for them; if this is not checked, there’ll be disaster, and they’ll take over the whole place.

    “These are just young people that are poor, desperate, abandoned; this country has failed them. This is not news, its open wound and we’re just seeing it. So I’d be very careful in classifying the categories. They could be more than 100,000; there’s a research so you can go online. It’s up to 300,000, the number of school growing children in Nigeria that are not in school. It’s in millions, so it’s very clear and we know where the problem is,” according to Nigerian Salesian priest presently serving in Dublin, Ireland, Rev. Father Cyril Odia.

    L-R: Member Organising Committee, The Oratory Movie Premier, Yeye Modupe Oyeduntan; UNICEF, Child Protection Specialist, Denis Onoise; Executive Producer, The Oratory, Rev. Father Cyril Odia; Chairman, Organising Committee, The Oratory Movie Premier, Gbenga Adebija. Photo: Olusegun Rapheal

    A call to action film with street children cast

    Moved by their plights, Rev. Odia and his fellow Salesians are passionately committed to the upliftment of homeless, delinquent and juvenile youths, through the film, vocational training and diverse forms of empowerment.

    They are out with a movie, The Oratory, that raises awareness on the plight of homeless and street children in society.

    The film, which was produced by revered filmmaker, Obi Emelonye and has as executive producer, Rev. Odia, is an internationally acclaimed movie which has received rave reviews all over the world where it has premiered in places such as Dublin, London, Turin and Venice.

    The film features an American priest sent from Turin, Italy, to a parish in Lagos, who must step on dangerous toes on both sides of a divided city in order to reach the street children whose plights evoke parallels with Don Bosco’s Oratory in the 1800.

    Filmed at various locations in Rome, Atlanta, Lagos and Turin, The Oratory features an impressive array of both Nigerian and international movie stars, street children as cast.

    “Some of them have the natural gift. To encourage them, some of the children who live on the streets acted in this film; so they can tell their friends. If we get more support like this, what stops us from making ten films in the next 10 years and get more of these children to be actors? If we can get 300 to 500 people for one movie, imagine if we can get 5000 young people who would have acted in 10 films in the next couple of years, how that will boost  and alleviate their plights.

    “This is the first catholic movie from Nigeria that’s focusing on something like this.  And you know sometimes faith is presented, needs to be clarified and we need a kind of real education and orientation. People believe in different religions in this country but we are interested in seeing your faith in action. Let us see the good you can do to help somebody and serve the God you’re serving. It’s not blowing our trumpet but we felt this is very urgent. Definitely we’re open for mass distribution, maybe this would help to solve this problem today and we can go home,” Odia said.

    The first leg of the Nigerian premiere hit the cinema last Saturday, November 20, at the Filmhouse Cinemas in Surulere, Lagos. And the second premiere held yesterday at the Genesis Deluxe Cinema, Ceddi Plaza, Abuja. Both events featured representatives of the government, the United Nations Children’s Fund, the Italian business community in Nigeria, and other stakeholders.

    Speaking at a briefing, the chairman, organising committee of The Oratory movie premiere, Gbenga Adebija, said: “The Oratory is not just a movie, it is actually an integral aspect of a broader multi-dimensional initiative which not only reminds us individually and as a collective of our civic responsibilities towards street children but also creates an inclusionary framework for the upliftment of homeless, delinquent and juvenile youths who are at risk of negative societal issues such as violence, sexual abuse, trafficking and crime. “

    Missionaries on a mission

    For Rev Odia’s words, Delegate Superior for Salesian in Nigeria, Anthony Uche, the Salesians of Don Bosco are a group on a mission to rid the streets of homeless children. “We are missionaries in the Catholic Church and we are very devout. We work in more than 130 countries. So the missionary country, all the countries in Africa, Europe, Northern America, Asia; anywhere you go and you ask for Don Bosco, we are there. But we don’t blow our trumpet, we are using this movie to create awareness now because there is a crisis and we notice we need to focus more on it.

    “But because our focus is children, those most at risk and in need, the ones that are abandoned; so there is advocacy for them, we’re standing for them. We’re representing them and saying, “We feel your pain,” we want to stand by you”.

    Reiterating, Director, Don Bosco Child Protection Centre, Lagos, Rev. Mark Anthony, observed that all hands must be on deck if the country is to achieve a nation free of street children, saying, “We all need to take seriously what we hear and what we would watch in the film. There are many lessons to be learnt. And we need to decide for ourselves what we can do to make sure these children are not necessarily on the street.”

    On his part, Mr Denis Onoise of UNICEF (Child Protection Specialist), praised the priests’ work, while calling for more support and funding for causes for child’s sake. “We are particularly interested in these children. And we believe that like other children, their rights should be protected. That’s our hope, that we get more people who are willing to do this work and who are willing to be supported. At UNICEF, we don’t work alone; we’ll be working with these donors and partners; and hope many more people are involved. In Nigeria, not many people understand the category of these children we’re talking about. This movie is to teach us about that. We will be reaching out to the category of people we want to reach out to.

  • ‘Why I advocate innovation in universities’

    ‘Why I advocate innovation in universities’

    Vice Chancellor, Wellspring University, Edo State, Prof. Isaac Ajayi, in this encounter with Gboyega Alaka, speaks on the importance of innovation and entrepreneurship in nations’ growth.

    He is a teacher, researcher and administrator with thirty years experience in the academia. But that is not all that define Professor Isaac Ajayi, Vice Chancellor, Wellspring University, located in Edo State, as he has also garnered vast experience, visiting and working in several world-class and top-rated universities in the USA and across Europe.

    Consequently, he is quick to tell you that those trips have exposed him to the many innovative works going on in the various institutions he has been opportune to visit and work in, and how they have helped placed their nations in the enviable positions they find themselves.

    When juxtaposed with the situation in Nigeria’s higher institutions, especially the dearth of commercial research, he said it is little wonder that the country falls short of what is expected of the digital age.

    “To the glory of God, I am a strong advocate of innovation in universities.  I have been involved in innovation, especially in foreign universities, and have taken part in some collaborative researches in Italy and Germany. I am still actively involved in collaborative works with some of them. As Vice Chancellor, I am highly committed to the vision of Wellspring University in the direction of university innovation and entrepreneurship,” Ajayi said.

    He explained that innovation is responsible for prosperity and wealth of nations and the transformation of nations from underdeveloped to developed and advanced nations.

    “In a rapidly changing world, which has become knowledge-driven, the global economic landscape has become increasingly more competitive. Only nations that are committed to imbibing entrepreneurial spirit through innovative ideas will remain relevant in the current global economy.”

    “From the industrial revolution of the 1800s to today’s digital revolution, innovation has been the driving force of economic growth and development. The evidence from developed economies shows that universities are the engine room of national development as they drive innovation, supply quality human capital, influence democratic development etc.”

    On how he perceives Nigeria’s educational sector, the innovative advocate says the general state of education in Nigeria today is a source of worry to all well-meaning Nigerian, as the sector has degenerated from the point of providing the solution to being part of the problem.

    He notes that until the university system prioritises skills development to equip Nigerians with the right competencies for employability through investments in key programmes, particularly in the areas of Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) and Technology, Vocational Education and Training (TVET), the nation will not witness the desired development.

    He also mentioned the need for digital literacy proficiency to drive innovation competitiveness and unlock the growth potential of various sectors.

    Measuring the impact of tertiary education on national development, Prof. Ajayi explained that the high rate of graduate unemployment in the face of growth in higher education sector is seen by many as indicative of the failure of the sector to fulfill its mandate.

    “The failure of this sector to make positive impact on national development is linked to such factors as funding challenges, lack of infrastructure and brain drain.”

    The Vice Chancellor added that the sector is also to blame for placing more emphasis on paper qualification as opposed to employability skills, innovation and creativity as well as lack of innovativeness evident in sheer dearth of scientific and technological advancement.

    He said it is hoped that the newly approved Nigeria’s Medium Term National Development Plan 2021-2025 will address these challenges as envisioned.

    On why Wellspring University is being repositioned, the Vice Chancellor explained that the institution in its 12th year is being positioned to compete globally and it’s in this regard that the institution is focusing on three major pillars to achieve this objective.

    According to Ajayi, the three pillars are: Academic knowledge, Skills Development and Research.

    He said, “Our university is focused with producing human capital for industries, and as such the academic knowledge disseminated is relevant to contemporary changes in the future in that field. To achieve this, we are addressing two key areas: the curriculum and the quality of individuals delivering the curriculum.”

    On skills development, the VC noted that the rapid advancement in technology has brought changes to the world of work and this calls for a new set of competencies in addition to academic knowledge.

    He stated that the institution is working assiduously to close the global skills gap through the creation of her Innovation Laboratory and the Centre for Entrepreneurship.

    “The objective of the Wellspring University Innovation Lab is to foster technology transfer, learning and research. The faculty members here are a blend of industry experts and academia.” He noted.

    He said the innovation hub hopes to establish deep relationships with various industries in the private sector with a blend of hybrid which will allow the lab to have rich pool of faculty members from around the world.

  • God called me to raise global leaders – Pastor Aborowa

    God called me to raise global leaders – Pastor Aborowa

    He has helped in transforming lots of lives, The Senior Pastor of Highland Church, Pastor Joseph Aborowa speaks to Adeola Ogunlade on his birthday and how  has been going about the mandate which the Lord gave him to raise global leaders.

    How do you define being called into the ministry ofpastor/spiritual leader?

    Ministry to me is a divine assignment; doing what God has called and asked you to do. In Highland Church, we have been mandated to raise global leaders. This is our assignment. We mustn’t do anything to the contrary. Whenever we want to do anything, we check to be sure that we are on course. We only pursue anything that concerns the raising of global leaders. A lot of ministers do what they do because they have heard from God. The divine assignment is not something you wish to do. It is spiritual. There are forces of hell you contend with once you say you are in ministry. If you are not called, you cannot stand the power of darkness. Jesus, himself, said, “I will build my Church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it”. The gates of hell will always want to rise above whatever you are doing as God’s minister and you cannot face them in the energy of the flesh unless you have Heaven’s backing.

    Let us in on your salvation experience?

    I was born and raised in a family of priests. My father was a pastor in his Church before going to be with the Lord. My mother too was a pastor. . My siblings are all into ministry activities. We always prayed before going to bed and had devotion every morning. However, the fact that you are the son of a Pastor does not make you a child of God. You can be the son of a Pastor and be playing religion. I attended a crusade in 1992 hosted by Pastor Daniel Davis of a Church called Agape. His message hit me and made me answer the altar call. Since giving my life to Jesus in that crusade, it has been from glory to glory with me not knowing what it means to backslide. I don’t know how backsliding feels. To the glory of God, I’ve never stepped out of the faith for one day.

    To what can you attribute your staying power in the faith?

     

    God ordered my steps to my first Pastor by name, Daniel Davis. He trained in Benson Idahosa’s bible school. He got the fiery and fearless traits from Archbishop Idahosa, who was his mentor. Pastor Davis’ many sterling attributes rubbed off on me immediately after joining Agape. We became very close. I was a committed worker in the Church. My experience with him made me see Pentecostalism in a different dimension, although my father’s Church was also a Pentecostal ministry. I heard faith being preached forcefully by this young man of God. Prayers and other deposits from Pastor Davis came upon me and made me strong in the faith. It will amaze you that two years after becoming born again, I was already pastoring. In Agape ministry, I became a prominent leader shortly after I became saved. I led prayer sessions during service and stood in for him whenever he was not around. I was a major leader in the Church even though I was 21 years of age at the time.

    What was your father’s reaction to your commitment to another Church?

    My encounter with the Lord happened after my father had gone to be with him. In my family, it is said that I am the only person who carried the mantle of our father. After he was buried in 1989, I was asked to move into his room. I believe that by living in my late father’s room, residues of grace and anointing that were upon him fell on me. I also believe that this was what brought me into ministry. I never wanted to be a Pastor.

    How did you transit from being a leader in Agape to becoming a Pastor?

    I never sought nor anticipated ordination. I just love God and was passionate about him. I enrolled in an ICAN tuition center in 1994. There, I saw a yearning gap. Most of my fellow students were just churchy, not deep-rooted Christians. I immediately resolved to fill the gap. I told them I have something different to offer and started leading a chapter of the Professional Accountant Students Christian Fellowship (PASCF) that same year. Pastor Segun Kingsley was our leader then. In 1996, he traveled to start a new life in the United Kingdom. In November 2002 when Pastor Segun Kingsley came to minister in one of our conferences, he called all the leaders and poured the oil upon me in their presence.

    What tragic or embarrassing situation have you encountered in ministry and how did God help you come out of it?

    I sincerely can’t remember any, Sir, and I’ve been in ministry for 27 years. By God’s grace, I don’t give room for scandals. The spirit of the Lord always reveals to us scandalous situations that are ahead. If it is going to come through leadership, we remove such a person from being a leader in Highland Church. Before we bring people into leadership, we always seek God. I have done lots of leadership changes in my 27 years as Pastor because the devil can possess anybody like he possessed Peter at some point. God has given us the ability to see trouble before they materialize. When I see somebody who is not living right as a leader, we first talk to them to amend their ways and if we see that they are not worthy of the grace and the assignment handed to them, we remove them from such office. I can categorically say there has not been any scandal in my 27 years of pastoring. Talking about the gates of hell, witches had come to me to confess that they are leaving my Church because they did not prosper in their enterprise. Do you know how many people have plotted evil against this Church? You think you can run a vision like Highland Church with the gates of hell not fighting. We face attacks; they come but God has always been giving this Commission and Pastor Joseph the victory. They’ve always failed in their enterprise. There has been no hospitalization, no crisis. The journey has been from glory to glory without a better last year.

     

    Your congregation is almost youth, how are you grooming them towards becoming global leaders?

    Yes, a substantial part of the Highland Church demography is youth. The leadership of the Church is mindful of this and factors in the nuances of youth in the pattern of our teaching of the Word and the worship of God. For starters, we have a Teenagers Church with a Pastor attached to them. We also have a Pastor for the youth congregation. The Church through these pastors regularly organize programmes and events that meet the needs of our young members, an example is Unveil Conference we held on November 20, 2021. Aside from teaching them the ways of the Lord in the language they understand, Highland Church goes the extra mile of giving responsibilities to the youth. You will find them serving in various capacities when you attend our services. Most of the members of departments and units like IT, Production, and Ushering are youth. We get them to get into the service of the Lord at a very young age. This way, they grow in grace and are even apply what they learn from their volunteerism in Church in the pursuit of their careers. We’ve had a testimony of one of our Choreographers who got a bank job after she was proved her dancing skills to the interviewers who sighted in her CV that she is a dancer in Church. There was also a Highlander who wrote in her CV that she does media presentation in Highland Church. In a job interview with one of the big four accounting firms in the country, the interviewer who knows me as a professional asked her to present as she does in Pastor Joseph’s Church. This member seamlessly presented a talk show to the panel and was given the job. We have a lot of young people who are thriving and really shining in their various endeavours because of the teachings and grace that are at work in Highland Church. These people are working with big organizations and setting up their own businesses. Our focus is to raise global leaders and we pursue this with so much passion and vigour. We do not entertain mediocrity. It must always be excellent. Our ministry doesn’t just have the vision to raise global leaders, we raise them through the teaching of the word of God and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. We don’t just teach logos in Highland Church; we teach the word mixed with the Spirit. Jesus said the words I speak to you are spirit and life. The tools that make our members global leaders are the word and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit. You can’t come to Highland Church and not know within a month that this Church is worded and spirit-filled.

     

     

    Can you share an insight into your relationship with God as pertains to devotion time?

    I am the kind of person that has a specific time of devotion to God. Most times, I am awake till 3am or 4am. I am on duty for the Lord 24/7. Let us be on fire all the time whether in the office, on the road, or at home. This should apply to every Christian. Let us be conscious of the Lord’s presence 24/7 not just during the devotion time of 5 to 6am. Everything about me is God; I’m totally sold out for Jesus. There is no time I’m not available to counsel God’s people. Members call me by 10pm and 11pm to share their burdens. I initiate talks with the leadership of the ministry at 1am, 2am. There is nothing structured about how I execute whatever pertains to God. I don’t want to forget what the Lord tells me. So whenever he gives me instructions, I either jot them in my note or send them to the person who will get it done immediately. I speak with the Lord at 3am or 4am. I can even have my devotion and quiet time at 1pm. I don’t have structured study time. I can start studying by 6am and wouldn’t stop until 9am. I believe that this was why God made me an entrepreneur. I don’t have to use my morning to resume in one employment. As my own boss, why then should I box myself in terms of when to have devotion with God? Christians should not have a particular time of devotion because the devil can note that time and strike within those hours when you are not in the Spirit. My being on duty 24/7 is what has sustained the unbroken fellowship with the Lord since 1992 up till now. It’s the passion, zeal, and love for God. I’ve been like this since I gave my life to Christ. I spend more time in God’s presence than anybody can imagine. I spend most of my weekends with the Lord. I am on one mountain morning till night, praying, studying, and preparing for Sunday service. And you won’t see me engaged in any major activity until I have delivered the message from the Lord. Then, at the end of the service, I start counseling until 4pm or 5pm. So, let’s be on duty 24/7. This can happen in your workplace where you may not be studying the bible but you are in the spirit praying. My focus now is Highland Church. I want to give Highland Church more time than I’ve given it before not. I want to resume here; counsel more and pray more.

     

    How do you manage family demands with ministry?

     

    It has been the working grace, grace, and grace! However, I make conscious efforts to connect with my family. I am involved in the personal development of my three boys. I go for open days in their school. I help them with assignments. My firstborn just got admission into the university. We virtually went through the entire process together. I personally went to drop him in school. I do Church and ministry but I don’t play with my family. We do dinner and go on outings together. We go on retreat together. All my children are workers in the Church. We are all in it together. When we get home, I deliberately create time for my wife and children. I can be very away from home as I go to mountains and prayer grounds on weekends. I go to these cool places to be able to hear God because the destiny of people that are tied to the divine mandate is beyond my family. I ensure that I see my children Monday to Friday. Sometimes they head straight to my office as they are returning from school. I know the strength of every one of them. I know what each of them can do and without influencing anything, they grow up telling me that this is the path they want to pursue. When I am away from home, the moment I get back, I want to catch up with whatever I have missed in their lives.

     

    What do you think of the 2023 general elections?

     

    I am a priest who speaks for God. I am not a prophet of doom. I see peace reigning all over Nigeria, election or no election. I see something greater than election befalling the world, not just Nigeria. Christ can come this year, he can come next year. Why are we talking about the 2023 elections when rapture can take place way before then? People should be more conscious about the coming of Christ, not scheming for who will emerge as the next President of Nigeria. Who says that the man carrying out human sacrifice so as to occupy political office will be alive when the time for election comes? Let’s rather talk about Jesus and his second coming which can happen at any time. This will help every one of us to live our lives one day at a time. But if he doesn’t come before or by 2023, peace must reign in Nigeria because we are here. Political actors heat up the country to a boiling point and everything still cools down because of those of us who are the elect of God. 2023 will be one of those years if we are still here.

     

    Can Pastor go into politics and possibly become president of a nation? Is it part of calls?

    If the Pastor has the grace to assume such public office or political appointment, I am not against it. One thing is that I can never criticize any man of God I have respect for. I will only speak for the people of God not to be deceived because there are so many deceivers who the bible already identified as wolves in sheep clothing. We have to beware of them. If a man of God says God has called him to be the president of Nigeria, I won’t question that. But for me as Pastor Joseph Aborowa, I consider it a demotion to be called the President of Nigeria. I see being the President as a demotion because I’ve been called to raise global leaders. A global leader is not just the President of one nation. From Highland Church, we are going to have Presidents of the United States. We are going to produce the Prime Ministers of Canada, United Kingdom etc. We are talking about global leaders here. So, how can I abandon this assignment and call to now serve as the President of a nation for four years? It is indeed a demotion of the grace of God upon my life. If another man of God or a member of this Church wants to be the President of Nigeria, it is in my place to anoint and pray for such an aspirant. Already, I am praying for every member of this Commission to be great and become Presidents and Prime Ministers of great nations of the world. But personally, I am not called to seek political office. I am speaking strictly from the bible. I’ve not been called to be a king. In the bible, you must note that there are three major offices. We have the king, the priest and the prophet. I’ve been called to operate in the office of a prophet and a priest. In the Old Testament, the priest is the intermediary between the people and God. He helps them with sacrifice, speaking to God on their behalf and performing all the religious rites that they need to do. The people also see priests as the mediator between them and God. This is why when somebody falls into sin, he brings a lamb or a sheep and confesses to the priest, revealing the sin committed. The priest then asks him to lay his or her hand on the animal and confess all the sins committed. The priest then takes the animal, slaughters it as a sacrifice for sin, it goes up to heaven and the priest says the person’s sins are forgiven. As for the prophet, he is the oracle of God. He speaks on behalf of God, saying “Thus sayeth the Lord”. Examples are Elijah, Elisha and the men of old. Prophets speak on behalf of God. This is who I am. I’m not a king. The office of a king is a man who has been anointed to lead. They are Herold, Saul, Joseph; they are also the provincial leaders like Daniel, Shedrack, Meshack and Abednego, Nehemiah. They are the Prime Ministers, Presidents, governors of our present age. These are political leaders anointed for that purpose. In the whole of the bible, only one man operated in the three offices of king, priest and prophet. And that is David. So, if I have been anointed to be a priest and prophet, becoming a king, which is the President, is indeed a demotion. This is my reality and rhema. Another man of God may have the grace. Since David operated in those three capacities, it is possible.

     

    How about Pastors who make themselves kingmakers or godfathers to public office holders?

    I don’t like the word godfather, I prefer to use kingmakers but not in the negative perspective. I want to remain in my office as a spiritual leader who raises global leaders. These people I raise can become anything. Even in my capacity as a Pastor, people come to me for investment decisions, marital decisions, and even when they want to relocate abroad. They come for counsel and prayers. Sometimes, I have an immediate word to share with them, at other times I ask them to call back later so that I can seek the face of God regarding their matter. After sometimes I call the person(s) to tell them that this is what the Lord is asking you to do and people who carry out the instructions from God always return with multiple testimonies of success. If I anoint the person God is asking to get into politics and he eventually wins an elective position, does that make me the godfather or kingmaker? I only spoke as I was directed by the Lord. You must also know that one of the jobs of a pastor is to bless God’s people. This blessing cannot be quantified as it can make you a great person in politics, industry, career, business, or whatever area of endeavor they are pursuing.

     

    You added a year to your years on earth, how does that feel like and why is the entire Church celebrating your birth anniversary?

    I am not a party person. We are rather making a thanksgiving service out of my birthday to appreciate God for his grace and faithfulness. If God has allowed you to see another year, why not return all the glory to him? The psalmist prayed of the Lord, teach us to number our days that we may gain a heart of wisdom. The celebration of my birthday by the Church is not to eulogize man but God. What do we have other than what the Lord has given us? This birthday celebration is actually a way to tell people about Christ. The thanksgiving is in Church, not club or hotel. We are still going to pray and preach on that day. We threw the invitation open to everyone, not just my extended family members. It’s for the evangelical purpose that the Church resolved to gather people to thank God for my life and ministry and to use the occasion as a means of seeing to the salvation of people.

     

  • BUKKY ASEHINDE: We serve as soft landing for creative start-ups

    BUKKY ASEHINDE: We serve as soft landing for creative start-ups

    Bukky Asehinde is the CEO of Bellafricana. She studied Biochemistry at the University of Westminister, London and moved from the Sciences connecting creative entrepreneurs to E- commerce platforms. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde she talks about her passion for creatives, creating more channels for export, turning point, recognitions and how she earned the sobriquet creatives Mother hen.

    You have shown interest in the contributions of female entrepreneurs and the creative sector? What are some of the experiences in the sector?

    Although I am widely known as the “Mother Hen” for creative entrepreneurs in my community, I did not start like that. I started out with creating creative gift ideas for people and personalized Ankara and Adire notepads [which I still do] and this exposed me to the African market. Learning how to source fabrics, knowing its history and heritage, dealing with artisans, marketing and of course customer service, which I am quite familiar with.

    I have always had an appreciation for African made products and it’s through this journey that I realized the importance of a strong support system for creative businesses and local talents, hence why I created Bellafricana. The Bellafricana community is called the “creative family” and is now referred to as “home to creative entrepreneurs”. It was so intentional.

     

    What are some of the changes that you will like to see in the sector?

    I would love to see more globally accepted and widespread African brands and products that would be at par with other brands or competitors. I commend the Nigerian Export Promotion Council [NEPC] for their assistance with creative entrepreneurs with regard to export and hope that it continues. Also, calling on the government to create a more conducive environment and policies for these creatives to start and grow their business, which would in turn lead to foreign investors and increased trade missions.

    What were you doing before this?

    I moved back to Nigeria for my National Youth Service Corps [NYSC] where I was posted to the Federal University of Technology, Akure (FUTA) to serve. My passion and obsession for wanting creative businesses to thrive and gain more visibility led me to become an entrepreneur.

    How can the government help to make things better?

    They can help by supporting the value chain and subsidizing production costs. Creating more channels for export and market trades. Policies that are more friendly, improving the current state of power supply, encouraging innovations and patronizing Nigerian-made products.

    What are the achievements over the years?

    Running my business for over 5 years and continuously growing my community, surviving the pandemic, hosting a successful African Creative Exhibition and Awards [ACE Awards] 2021, keeping and building existing and new relationships which has led to beautiful beginnings for both my community and myself, such as the Export Expansion Facility Program [EEFP] Grant which was awarded to all the winners at this year’s ACE awards and my induction as Zero Oil Ambassador for Nigeria, by the Executive Director of The Nigerian Export Promotion Council [NEPC], Mr Olusegun Awolowo.

    What would you describe as the turning point for you?

    The turning point for me came when I was abroad. I yearned for something Nigerian, something to connect and remind me of home but finding them was never an easy task. This sparked the need to create Bellafricana, this need for Nigerian/African Made brands to be easily and globally accessible. This was the turning point.

    How would you compare the experience in Nigeria with what obtains in other parts of the world?

    Every country has its flaws and strengths. For Nigeria, I would say good governance and policies that aid growing businesses and start-ups are a challenge. Even financing a business, with regards to taking out loans and receiving grants can be a chore. Nonetheless, we have come a long way and some positive changes have been made.

    How would you describe the experience during the COVID-19 lockdown last year?

    It has been an interesting journey for both the creatives and myself. Just like any business journey that one embarks upon, there are bound to be ups and downs and I have been very intentional, and have worked hard in ensuring that Bellafricana also serves as a soft landing for these creatives, as it provides important tools and resources needed in starting, growing and scaling a business. Furthermore, connecting them with mentors, coaches, and experts in various fields helps in subsidizing all costs that would have been incurred if Bellafricana was not in the picture. It is an open secret that the economy is not particularly friendly to entrepreneurs, which is why we also serve as a buffer, especially for creative start-ups.

    I must say that we were quick to adapt and strategically reposition ourselves when the COVID-19 pandemic hit. We saw this as an opportunity to look inwards and key into the digitized world that we live in. We encouraged the creatives in our community to increase their presence and make more use of social media in communicating, selling, and getting more leads. It was also a good opportunity for them to curate and utilize their email lists, grow their contacts, and leverage their connections on LinkedIn.

    Furthermore, we became a pillar of strength for creatives who are not in the food and snacks industry, as they felt that their services were not needed. We continued to support them and came up with various initiatives such as: The Creatives Challenge, Members Bonding Program, Moments with a Creative and so on. This helped in uplifting them and motivating them to think outside the box, adapting and operating to different situations.

    In fact, there were members who were able to launch their physical stores despite the pandemic. This is not to say that there were no shifts or downturns for these businesses but it’s all perspective and how one chooses to forge on with whatever situation or challenges that life throws at you.

    What advice do you have for young people who want to come into the sector?

    Find your passion, find what excites you and give it your all. Always think long term, do some research on the creative industry, see how things are done all over the world, improve your standards and work process.

    Read, connect and network. Build healthy relationships and be consistent.

    “Don’t be in a rush to “make it” – the journey of a thousand miles starts with one step. Being consistent gives room for growth and gets you to the successful end goal.”

    Tell us about the awards and some of the achievements recorded over the years?

    The African Creative Exhibition and Awards [ACE Awards] which was held on the 29th of October, 2021, was a success, as we celebrated creativity and innovation in Nigeria and Africa. The event hosted notable personalities such as Mr Olusegun Awolowo [Executive Director of Nigerian Export Promotion Council (NEPC) & President ECOWAS TPO Network], Mr Tobi Asehinde [CEO/Founder Digital Marketing Skills Institute], and so on, ended with 15 creatives winning the 15 different categories and were awarded the Export Expansion Facility Promotion Grant by the Executive Director of Nigerian Export Promotion Council.

    As for achievements, I am the co-founder of a non-profit organisation called PUSH Relief Project. I was listed as one of the 100 Most Inspiring Women in Nigeria in 2018 by the Leading Ladies Africa in honour of her great strides and commendable impact and selected by Business Day in 2019 as one of the 50 most inspiring women in Nigeria. I have been featured as one of the top 30 African Women Entrepreneurs and Influencers in 2021 by Business Elite Africa, as well as featured in Inside Watch Africa and Woman.ng, and as an alumna of the prestigious Founder Institute.

    Growth in my community, celebrating Bellafricana 5 years anniversary and successful hosting of this year’s African Creative Exhibition and Awards. Most recently, the woman of the month for Pride Magazine Nigeria and inducted as Zero Oil Ambassador for Nigeria.

    What are some of the principles that guide what you do?

    I strongly believe in teamwork, I believe in communication, I believe in impacting the lives of the people I work with.

    What are some of the things that you would like to do in future?

    I would like to own a village – that is, Bellafricana village. Similar to what China has been able to accomplish in almost every country they settle in – “China town”. I would also want Bellafricana to become one of the biggest e-commerce platforms in Africa.

    How do you relax?

    I intentionally make out time to relax, as my mind is constantly in work mode. I enjoy going on vacations, reading, spending quality time with family and building relationships.

    What type of books do you like to read?

    I enjoy reading self-help books and inspirational books.

    What lessons has life taught you?

    Everything in life has its time and season. If you work hard, smart and diligently, you would succeed. A mentor once said to me, that experience is not necessarily the best teacher, rather lessons learned from every experience is the best teacher. That really struck me and has stayed with me.