The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • ‘In our days, you couldn’t be caught in outrageous dresses’

    ‘In our days, you couldn’t be caught in outrageous dresses’

    Alhaja Jemilat Alex-Oni, CEO, Amore Jemis & Co, an oil and gas distribution outfit, is the type you could call ‘proper Lagos girl, having been born of Lagos parents and bred in the former Federal capital. Alex-Oni, who started out as a banker tells Gboyega Alaka her story as she clocks 70.

    Your bio data speaks of a real Lagos girl, the type Lagosians love to call ‘Omo Eko ataataa’. What does it mean to be called ‘Omo Eko ataataa’?

    Omo Eko ataataa refers a child born and bred in Lagos. It refers to a child with proper Lagos heritage and brought up in the proper Lagos culture. And when I’m talking of Lagos, I am talking of Lagos Island, Isale Eko; from Olowogbowo to Aroloya, to Adeniji Adele, back to Ebute-Ero. It is that circle that is Isale-Eko proper. Those born there are the real Omo-Eko.

    You grew up in the 1950s and ’60s; what was Lagos like in those days?

    Lagos was peaceful. Everything was in shape and you could move from one place to the other anytime of the day. We didn’t have a car, but we could trek even late into the night. We used to trek from Isale-Eko to Tinubu Square, if you know Lagos Island very well, without any incident. No attack or criminality whatsoever. And we knew each other and family. You could eat in any of the houses, even sleep. If a child does wrong, he would be scolded right there by any adult in the vicinity. But if he now grumbles, his parents would double the punishment. Everything was intact and there were no infiltrations.

    Even at 70, you look pretty and sharp; how did you spend your youth?

    Back then when we were maidens, there was a minimum standard/mode of dressing expected of us. You mustn’t be caught in any outrageous outfits. There was a time to go out and there was a time that you must come back home. If you are spotted in any untoward act, those who knew you would report you to your parents or guardians and you would be disciplined. We never celebrated nudity as is seen now and we didn’t just go to any party. Anybody who was inviting you to a party would have to come to your house to invite you; and if your parents said no, it was no. the only people you see dressing anyhow or being wayward were the outsiders; those who came from the hinterland and other states who got over taken in by the fast city life. For us who were real Lagosians, everybody knew you; and that kept us in check, both in appearance and in conduct.

    There is this general saying that those who bastardised Lagos life are the outsiders, how true?

    It is the absolute truth. Lagos was never like this. There were no hooligans, thugs, cultism or robbery. Yes you could have a Lagos boy or girl who was tough; but that does not mean he would add criminality to it. The most we had then were scuffles at the public tap, especially if a group from another area wants to ‘chance’ you in your own area. We would tussle but we never broke bottles or stabbed each other.  But even before the fight got underway, our parents would have heard and they would rush down to pull us home by the ears.

    How does it feel to be 70?

    I am happy and the way I look is the grace of God. Growing up, I was never wayward. We did everything at the right time. We went to school at the right time; when it was time to marry, I got married to my husband. If you use yourself anyhow in your youth, you will get the result in your old age. That’s what some people don’t understand. Also, I eat well and sleep at the right time. I don’t over labour myself; I exert my energy only on what is necessary. And that is what has kept me and making me look this graceful. Again, I say Alhamdulillai. And I pray to God for more good health and life.

    Tell us about your family background.

    Like I said, I was born in Lagos Island. I was not born in a Massey Hospital or Island Maternity; I was born at a traditional birth attendant; they called the man, Baba Idunmaigbo. That was on the 11th of November, 1951. It was on a Sunday. My father was Mr Hussein Taiwo Amore of Eletu Odibo Chieftaincy family, Isale-Eko, Lagos Island. My mother was Late Alhaja Moriliat Amoke Shonibare; she was of Shonibare of Isale-gangan; while her mother was from Isale-Eko of Onikate Court, very close to the King’s Palace. I went to Patience Modern Girls’ School in Isale-Eko – I went to all-girls’ school all my life until my HSC (Higher School Certificate). From there, I went to Ansar-u-deen Girls High School, Apapa, and later to Ansar-u-deen Girls High School, Aiyepe, Ogun State. Thereafter, I went to St Gregory’s College for my HSC. Because of my combination, I wanted to do History-Government-Economics; but they said I could only do History alongside Literature; so after six months, I left for Ahmadiya College, Agege to complete my HSC. They called it standard 12 then. On completing my HSC, my father said I should get a job. So I got a job in First Bank of Nigeria. I worked in several branches, even in the head-office. After 21 years, I voluntarily retired. I was in my 40s.

    That was quite young; why did you decide to retire so early?

    There was a circular that was passed for voluntary retirement. I took a look and decided that I had done enough, so I decided to leave.

    I guess you went into business thereafter, but before we talk about that, let’s talk about your banking experience. What was banking like in your days?

    Beautiful. Banking was so easy, no stress. For every department, you had an officer, clerk, several staff working with you and everything was working fine; unlike now when everything has been computerised. Now, it’s less staff, much fraud. Then there was not much room for fraud because everything was manual and you had to balance the account using your brain. But we were okay with it.

    Are you saying it is much easier to commit fraud with the current computerised system?

    Of course. Anybody can just go to the system and do whatever they like there. You had to go through different people to move money in those days.

    Part of the major issues people have with banking today is the high loan interest rates, which is over 20 per cent; some even charge as high as 27 per cent. What was the highest interest rate in your time?

    I worked in the lending department and the highest we had was 11 per cent. People borrowed then and were able to pay back because the loan burden wasn’t killing. Also the atmosphere enabled businesses to thrive, so those who borrowed were able to recoup their money plus profit and pay up. Then we didn’t have too many bad debts. Compare that to now with the high interest rate and the bad business atmosphere. So people tend to lose their collateral more these days.

    Tell me about your marriage.

    It’s a long story (Laughs). I told you I left St. Gregory’s College, Lagos Island for Ahmadiya College, Agege. I went for an interview and the panel said I needed to have a credit in my Mathematics, which I didn’t have then. So they said I couldn’t go in. But somebody on the panel said ‘But you can still do your maths while undergoing your HSC’; and the panel agreed. It turned out that he was a teacher in the school.

    Was he the same man you got married to?

    Yes. (laughs heartily) Apparently he didn’t want me to escape. I thank God for having him in my life. His name is Alhaji Engineer Shamsudeen Olatunde Alex-Oni. He is late now. He was also a Lagosian from Olowogbowo in Lagos Island. We have two children, a girl and a boy: Shakirat Jimoh and Shakiru Shakioye. By the grace of God, they’re both doing well.

    Let’s talk about your business. You must have had something planned out before you took that decision to retire.

    While I was in the banking job, I was the accountant of my branch and we used to buy diesel with drums from filling stations to power our generator. I already noticed that opening, so the moment I retired, I took a decision to venture into diesel supply. I registered my company, Amore Jemis and co, and the first place I went to was my former place of work, First Bank, Surulere. I said, please, can I start supplying your diesel need? They said yes. As an ex-staff, I had access to other branch staff and managers, so I extended my services to several other branches. From there, I forayed to in Lagos State. I started supplying to the ministries, House of Assembly and so on. And that is how my business grew.

    What’s in line for this 70th birthday celebration?

    If I tell you something, you may not believe it. I have never celebrated my birthday. Maybe when I was 12. In fact, you cannot even talk to me on my birthday because I usually switch off my phone. Usually I stay at home or I go on Umrah hajj. However, for this 70, my children begged me that ‘mother, let us celebrate this birthday for you.’ So it’s their party.  Initially, I said no; I even said ‘give me the money, let me use it for business’ (laughs) but they said no. they just want to celebrate it for me.

  • Jordan, new tourism destination for Nigerians

    Jordan, new tourism destination for Nigerians

    The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is expanding its tourism offerings to Nigerian tourists to include leisure, education, wellness and other touristic activities. This is in addition to Christian and Islamic pilgrimage, for which the country has already started receiving pilgrims from Nigeria.

    To achieve this, Jordan is holding a tri-state road-show to sensitise prospective Nigerian tourists on the tourism offerings in the country. The roadshow is being undertaken in partnership with one of Nigeria’s leading tour operator, Nigerians Travel Too (NTT) from 31st October to 8th November 2021 in Lagos, Kano and the Federal capital Territory (FCT).

    A team of representatives of the Jordan Tourism Board, which include Dr. Justin Abu Anza, Medical and Wellness Tourism Unit head, Mr. Amer Essam Jmal Twal, Mass Tourism/Mixed Faith Specialist and   Mr Ahmad Mohammad Al Khattab, Islamic faith consultant are in Nigerian for the roadshow.

    According to Dr. Abdalrazzaq Arabiyat, Managing Director of the Jordan Tourism Board, “Nigeria represents a new tourism target market for Jordan. The aim of our roadshow in Kano, Abuja, and Lagos is to increase awareness about Jordan as a tourism destination and highlight various tourism experiences such as Islamic and Christian faith, luxury/leisure, medical and educational tourism.”

    Jordan is also home to one of the seven world wonders, Petra.

    Ms. Elizabeth Agboola, CEO and Founder of Nigerians Travel Too, while expressing her delight in the new partnership, explained that the COVID-19 pandemic has had a serious effect on the global tourism and travel sector, and that with many popular destinations being closed to tourists or having limited scope for entry for nearly one year, tourism stakeholders are keen to explore opportunities to get more people to travel once again.

    Agboola declared that, “We are excited to be working closely with the Jordan Tourism Board on this project and we have prepared a diverse and creative programme for the roadshow that will facilitate direct engagement between members of the Jordanian and Nigerian tourism fraternity at various levels”.

    This has been echoed by Dr. Arabiyat who has expressed appreciation for the “efforts and support of NTT in providing us with the opportunity to explore the true potential of the Nigerian market to Jordan”.

    The roadshow will feature workshops, meetings, and presentations in the respective locations. Dr. Arabiyat noted that he and his team are excited about their visit to Nigeria. They are ultimately, ‘looking to facilitate the entry of Nigerian tourists into Jordan by simplifying entry requirements and processing visa(s) in a reasonable amount of time”.

    Read Also: Tourism icon urges govt to assist in sector’s recovery

    It is envisaged that the new travel facility will commence in December 2021 with weekly direct flights with Royal Jordanian Air from Lagos and Kano respectively to Amman Jordan.

    During the Lagos Roadshow, Amer Essam Jmal Twal explained further on the tourism offerings in Jordan: “Let’s start with Christians; as at the time the NCPC came to Jordan, they’ve been looking at Jordan as a new destination as part of Holy Land. They needed more information, but once they’ve been inside the Jordan, they noticed the authenticity and spirituality of the sites. Just imagine, the church leaders, led by Rev. Yakubu Pam, standing over the baptism site, the exact place where Jesus was baptized by John the Baptist.  In John 1:38, it spoke about Bethabara. The experience pilgrims had at that time was indescribable.  We had over 15 flights with about 2500 passengers. That was the first part. The next part will be the Islamic tourism.

    “We have a lot of shrines; we have a lot of places they could visit. It is Halal tourism.  There is the diversity of Islamic shrines and the large number of prophets that were located in Jordan, buried in Jordan and have historical significance to parts of Islam in Jordan.

    “What we are trying to say is that our main focus as a tourism board is that we have sub-segments and strategic products that we are working on. Luxury and leisure tourism are our main focus right now.

    “We are looking forward to having more Nigerians visit Jordan because Jordan has lots to offer as a nation. We are talking about sun and sand; we are talking about historical cultural experience; we are talking about food experience; we are talking about different activities.

    “The beauty of Jordan is that everything changes as you move from the north to the South. So, you can move from greenery and very modern centre to historic ruins to sun and sand, including Dead Sea. There are different experiences that you can take part. We are here to give a brief of what Jordan has to offer because I think Nigerians have little information about Jordan. We are trying to give a different perception to what Jordan is, and what Jordan has to offer.”

  • Gloom, hunger as prices of commodities continue to soar

    Gloom, hunger as prices of commodities continue to soar

    Juliana Agbo in this report writes on concerns of Nigerians and the long term implications of the continuous increase in prices of commodities across the country.

    AS prices of commodities continue to shoot off the roof, millions of Nigerians, especially low income earners, are finding it increasingly difficult to afford even one square meal in a day.

    The price increase in cereal, maize meal, bread, sugar, tea, oil, salt, flour and other staples have forced low income earners and vulnerable people to economise on the quantity and quality of their meals.

    However, the Food and Agricultural Organisation (FAO), among others, has been persistent in expressing concern over the global food crisis over the years.

    The organisation recently disclosed that over four million Nigerians go hungry and suffer from malnutrition due to food insufficiency.

    This, it said, is tied to worsening insecurity, low farming activities, pests and diseases, natural disasters, loss of biodiversity, habitat destruction, economic challenges and devastating effects of COVID-19.

    Food prices, which increase on a weekly and monthly basis in 2021 alone, are said to be the worst since 2015.

    A survey carried out by The Nation across different markets in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) and some parts of Nasarawa State, shows that apart from rice, which increased by 10 percent, other commodities, including livestock products increased above 90 percent between April and October 2021.

    A visit to Mpape, Utako markets in Abuja and Masaka market in Nasarawa State reveals that a cup of palm oil that was sold for N100 now sells between N180 and N200, while a cup of vegetable oil that was sold for N120 now sells for N250.

    Other commodities such as Indomie noodles carton now sell for N4,600 (Super pack) against the initial price of N2,400 while a carton of chicken flavour now sells for N2,900 against the initial price of N1,600.

    Currently, a pack of super pack now sells for N120 while a pack of chicken flavour sells for N100.

    A sachet of milk, which was sold for N50 now sells for N70, while a kilo of goat and beef sold between N1,400 and N1,500 now sells for N2,500 and N2,800.

    A trader, Mrs Janet Boniface, who spoke with The Nation, said a bag of 1kg of Semovita that contains 10 is now N6,000 against the initial price of N3,700 obtained between April and June this year, while a carton of spaghetti that contains 20 packs now sell for N6,500 against the initial price of N3,500.

    “We now sell a pack of spaghetti for N350 against the initial price of N200”, she said.

    Speaking on the cost of other commodities, she said apart from rice and garri which have not increased so high like other commodities, other products have increased far above how they were sold between January and April this year.

    She said Maggi Star seasoning that was sold N250 now sells for N550 why Knorr seasoning that was sold for N350 and N400 now sell between N600 and N700 depending on the flavour.

    “We no longer sell with gain, but we just sell to remain in business. Every week, we receive text messages from some companies about the increase in price of commodities” she added.

    The Nation learnt that prices of different bean varieties have also doubled in the past weeks across major cities in Nigeria.

    A big bag of brown beans, which sold within the range of N85,000 and N88,000 in previous weeks has now surged by over 17 percent to sell as high as N100,000 in major markets,  while a big bag of white beans costs between N56, 000 and N60,000.

    Another trader, Chichi Adi, who spoke with The Nation, said a lot of consumers are running away from beans due to the high cost.

    Adi said she is yet to sell out most of the beans she bought in the last two weeks due low patronage.

    “Currently, we are buying a bag of white beans for N56,000 while that of the brown beans is between N90,000 and N100, 000. They are telling us to buy more and keep because it will be more expensive soon. A mudu of white beans is now N900 while brown is N1,100”, she said.

    National President of the Cowpea and Beans Farmers, Processors and Marketers Association of Nigeria, Mr Shittu Kabir, in an interview with The Nation stated that the price of the produce may go up to N150, 000 per bag as farmers are still battling with low yield factor due to shortage of rainfall and other challenges.

    According to him, “there will be scarcity of beans because in the north where we farm the crop, there has been a shortage of rainfall in the last few weeks and we plant between August and September.”

    Kabir, while noting that the country has been importing to meet up with local demand, said a lot of bean farmers have lost interest in continuing with the crop farming due to the challenges associated with it.

    He said the association has reached out to the government severally for interventions such as the Anchor Borrowers Programme to boost bean production, but yet to get positive feedback.

    He said: “Beans is a national crop just as rice; we have reached out to the Central Bank of Nigeria (CBN) to help us so we can start dry season farming too but we didn’t get any positive response from them.

    ”Such intervention will not just boost bean production but would bring down the price of the commodity for Nigerians.

    He further noted that many people in the business have abandoned it due to the increase in price.

     

    Hike in cooking gas and kerosene

    Many residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) have resorted to the use of charcoal as an alternative to cooking gas and kerosene due to their soaring prices.

    The residents also lamented the high cost of firewood, of which a small piece sold for N100, making charcoal which big bag is sold between N2,900 and N3,000, the best alternative for cooking.

    The Nation observed that the prices of gas and kerosene have been steadily going up in the past few months. 12.5kg of gas which earlier sold for between N4,000 and N4,500 now goes for N8,200 to N8,400, while 6kg earlier sold for between N2,200 and N2,300 now goes for N4,200. A litre of kerosene earlier sold for N300 now goes for N400 and N450.

    Some FCT residents who spoke with The Nation said most families are finding it difficult to cook good meals with the increase in the products.

    A resident of Mpape community, Bwari Area Council, Mrs Jane Ulaegbu, said she had to resort to charcoal to prepare meals for her family, as the situation of cooking gas and kerosene has become frustrating.

    She said: “I cannot afford to buy 1kg of gas because it is sold for N700 and kerosene is sold between N400 and N450 while one piece of firewood is sold for N100.

    “The situation is terrible and I have to resort to what will be okay for me and my family, which can serve me for some weeks”.

    A civil servant, Agnes Ujah, said she could not cope with the high cost of gas and kerosene anymore.

    Ujah, who is a resident of Nyanya, Abuja Municipal Area Council, said she has never fancied the idea of cooking with a charcoal stove, as it makes her uncomfortable.

    According to her, charcoal has never been an option despite the high cost of gas in the past.

    “The time spent in making charcoal is always exhausting. I am not even supposed to use it for cooking because doctors have warned me against it because of my eyes, but the economy pushed me into using it”, she said.

    A business woman and a resident of Gishiri community, Grace John, said she considered the challenges in the family and decided to resort to charcoal which she has not used over the years.

    She added that even the price of charcoal is gradually increasing, as a lot of people are resorting to the product.

    “This has brought hardship to the poor and the government must do something to address the situation urgently”, she added.

    Read Also: World Food Programme’s quest for a hunger-free Nigeria

     

    Major price increase in ‘pure water’

    The sachet water commonly known as ‘pure water,’ which is the most popular source of drinking water in most cities and villages in Nigeria, recently witnessed a major price increase.

    The producers, under the Association of Table Water Producers Association of Nigeria, last month announced an increase due to rising production costs.

    A bag of sachet water which contains 20 sachets is now sold between N250 and N300 against N120 and N150, which it used to sell for in most parts of the FCT.

    Currently, a 50cl sachet of ‘pure water,’ which was sold for N10 before now, is now sold between N20 to N30 depending on the area.

    A small scale business woman, Ada Icha, said she stopped buying pure since it was announced that the price would go up last month.

    Icha said she now takes water directly from her well to boil for her family to drink.

    She said: “I have a lot of people in my house that drink a lot of water; how many bags of pure water will I buy in a week that will be enough? I used to buy four bags for N500, but now that amount will buy only two bags, which would not be enough for us in a week.”

     

    Implication

    A nutritionist, Emeka Okoro, said the implication of rising food costs on the economy may come with tragic results in the short and long term, particularly for children, the aged, and other vulnerable members of society.

    Okoro said the eating pattern of most low income earners and the poor have changed due to inability to afford good meals, which may ultimately lead to high rates of malnutrition especially among children and the aged.

    He added that the ability of poor households to meet other important non-food expenses, such as education and health care, are being increasingly limited by rising food prices.

    “Criminality will be on high rise due to hunger and malnutrition”, he said.

    Also, a medical practitioner, Dr Usha Anenga, said in the case of high cost of ‘pure water’, people may resort to drinking water that is not well treated to reduce cost.

    This, he said, will lead to serious cases of people getting infected with water-borne diseases such as cholera and typhoid fever.

    According to him, “People may now be forced to look for alternatives or patronise water companies that don’t follow the right procedure, to lower cost; and this will expose them to having water-borne diseases such as cholera and typhoid.

    “We just battled the issue of cholera not long ago and hundreds of people died which is not good for us”.

     

    What urgently needs to be done

    An economist, Joe Okpe, said the federal and state governments have roles to play in creating an environment where all people have enough food for a healthy and productive life.

    Okpe said the concerned authorities should endeavour to properly manage the situation before it gets out of control.

    While noting that the current situation poses risks for poor people’s livelihoods and food security, he said the only way to stop price hikes on food is to place a fixed price on produce per kilogram, litre, mudu, or cup accordingly.

    He said a law against price hike and hoarding will protect the interest of consumers as well as producers.

    “When the prices of food items and other goods and services increase over a period of time, it affects the entire economy”, he said.

    Also, an Agricultural Economist, Professor Victor Okoruwa, who attributed the high cost of food to multiple exchange rates and rise in petroleum products, said urgent measures should be taken to address the situation.

    Okoruwa, who is a Professor in the Department of Agric Economics, University of Ibadan, said Nigeria will continue to experience increase in food prices as long as prices of petroleum products keeps rising and exchange rate value keeps going higher.

    In an interview with The Nation, Okoruwa said as long as the issues remained unattended to, other products such as farm inputs will continue to rise, which would also affect the quantity of food production this year.

    While calling on the federal government to allow some products to be imported into the country to encourage producers, Okoruwa said Nigeria cannot afford to face another food crisis in 2022.

    According to him, Nigerian farmers have not been able to move away from the traditional system to mechanised agriculture.

    ”We cannot expand our scale of production because we are using small scale farming procedures”, he said.

    ”We have more than one exchange rate in this country, which has not been addressed. Nigerian workers are poorly paid, so the money circulating in the country is so small among the poor people who love to buy so much but can’t afford because of their purchasing power.

    “We are still going through the vicious circle; until we sit down to reality and look at the economy, look at what to do, look at what not to stop importing to encourage people to produce, we cannot say we are food sufficient. When this happens, the marketer has no choice than to drop the price for people to buy”, Okoruwa added.

    An agricultural economist, Gabriel Aminu, who noted that the rising food prices are a reflection of supply-and-demand fundamentals, said there should be investment in agriculture, particularly in agricultural science and technology and in market access, at both national and global scale to address the long-term problem of boosting supply.

    Aminu, who lamented that the demand growth for food commodities has outstripped supply growth for several years, resulting in lower stock levels, said enough energy should be channelled towards the adoption of biotechnology to develop high yielding seeds for farmers.

  • Reunion as Baptist men’s union commemorates 30th anniversary

    Reunion as Baptist men’s union commemorates 30th anniversary

    It was a reunion on October 24 as old executives and members graced the 30th anniversary of the Men’s Missionary Union (MMU) of Amazing Grace Baptist Church (AGBC) in Ilupeju, Lagos.

    Executives of the Nigerian Baptist Convention (NBC) and Lagos East Baptist Conference (LEBC), including its President and MMU Chairman also honoured the Union with their attendance.

    LEBC President, Rev (Dr) Matthew Awujoola, in his message titled ‘Great is thy Faithfulness’, urged the gathering to learn to pray, adding “there is power that is bigger than our gates.”

    Read Also: ‘How the church should deal with terror, hostilities’

    The anniversary also featured 5 million naira fund raising for MMU mission projects.

    The MMU Chairman, Dn Babajide Ajaka led the Union to award all his predecessors. The deceased’s posthumous awards were received by their family.

    AGBC Church Pastor Rev Oluwatobi Adeniji encouraged the Union to keep on waxing stronger.

  • Methodist Church preaches peaceful coexistence as MTI celebrates at 70

    Methodist Church preaches peaceful coexistence as MTI celebrates at 70

    The Bishop of Methodist Diocese of Remo, Rt. Rev Jacob Ibikunle, has admonished Nigerians to embrace tolerance and peaceful co-existence for peace to reign in the country.

    He gave the admonition at a briefing to herald the 70th anniversary of the Methodist Theological Institute, Shagamu, Ogun State at the weekend.

    Ibikunle, who doubles as the Chairman of Governing Council of the Seminary, cautioned it wasn’t the time to point fingers or blame political leaders alone but a time for all Nigerians to change their ways and embrace peace and live in harmony.

    According to him, the insecurity issues in the country were just some of the many consequences of not embracing peace.

    “Kidnapping is not a pleasant experience. I was kidnapped too some time ago, so I’m well aware of the agony and desperation of not knowing if you will see the next hour, but the fact still remains that a peaceful heart will not go out to kidnap fellow human beings for money.

    “There is wanton killing and maiming of the innocents. They are traumatising the people and causing intense fright and dread among the populace.

    “And this is why religious leaders must give priority to sermons promoting honesty, patriotism and peaceful co-existence among Nigerians,” he added.

    Rector of the Seminary, Very Rev. Dr. Raphael Idialu, disclosed that several activities have been lined up for 70th anniversary, noting that the anniversary torch has been travelling around the country since the beginning of November.

    READ ALSO: Same sex marriage threatens to break Methodist Church

    Idialu stated that the grand finale of the anniversary with the theme: “Methodist theological Institute, Shagamu: Expanding and consolidating,” holds on Wednesday, November 10 when the Institute’s Wall of Fame would be unveiled and 15 eminent personalities inducted.

    He listed those to be inducted into the Seminary’s Wall of Fall, according to him, are The Prelate, MCN, His Eminence, Dr. Samuel Kalu Uche; Wife of Former Oyo Governor, Chief {Mrs} Florence Ajumobi; Wife of Benue Deputy Governor, Justice Mary Abounu; Chief Adebutu Kessington; Founder of the Love of Christ Generation Church C&S (Worldwide), Reverend Esther Ajayi and the Most Revd. Dr. Humphrey Olumakaiye, the Diocesan Bishop of Lagos Anglican Diocese and several others.

    Chairman Methodist Theological Institute Shagamu 70th anniversary committee, Rt. Rev [Dr.] David Moradeyo, said it was the responsibility of the church to ensure peace and unity revolves around the nation for growth and development.

    Moredeyo, who is the Bishop of Ogbomoso Methodist Diocese, explained that education was the key to promoting peace and development, which the Methodist Church has not shied away from this integral part of the Methodist Movement since it started in the 18th century.

    He said MTI trains God-called men and women for effective leadership and also to contribute to the transformation of society.

  • Revival crusade ‘The Outpouring’ to air live on DStv, GOtv

    Revival crusade ‘The Outpouring’ to air live on DStv, GOtv

    Nigerian gospel singer and worship revivalist, Dunsin Oyekan, is scheduled to hold a worship, prayer crusade in Lagos tagged “The Outpouring” on Sunday, November 7, 2021 which will air live on DStv and GOtv.

    The Outpouring which will take place at the Sapphire Open Ground, Lekki Foreshore, Lekki Phase 1 Lagos is set to have Christians from diverse denominations in an atmosphere of worship, prayer and revival. The event will air at 4pm on DStv Channel 198 and GOtv Channel 29.

    According to the convener, the revival is set to host thousands of guests and is expected to not only birth a revival of faith and soul winning but also herald national transformation in Nigeria. “The call is to rekindle the fire in us, just as God commanded the priests to have a continual fire upon the altar in Leviticus 6:8-13. We know that our God is a consuming fire, and He burns within the New Testament Christians” he said.

    The event will feature prominent men of God such as Bishop Francis Wale Oke, Poju Oyemade, Jerry Eze, Daniel Olawande, Michael Orokpo and gospel music ministers, Nathaniel Bassey, Elijah Oyelade, Victoria Orenze, Chingtok Ishaku, Bukola Bekes and Kunle Ajayi.

  • Makurdi Catholic diocese marks 60th anniversary

    Makurdi Catholic diocese marks 60th anniversary

    The Makurdi Diocesan Synod has rounded up its 3rd anniversary, which also coincided with the 60th anniversary of the diocese

    Benue State governor, Dr Samuel Ortom, represented by his deputy, Engr. Benson Abounu, delivered a goodwill message to the synod, which is the highest decision making body of the diocese.

    He described the 3rd Synod as a major milestone in the history of the diocese and prayed that it will provide the opportunity for spiritual reflection and covenant renewal with God, and also offer prayers for the diocese’s peace, unity and development of Benue State and Nigeria.

    Governor Ortom, who thanked Bishop Anagbe and the entire Catholic Diocese of Makurdi for the active support given the state government in its fight against activities of killer herdsmen, commended them for their sustained efforts in promoting peace and unity in Christendom and the propagation of the gospel.

    He pledged to partner with the church in activities that promote the socio-economic development of the people of the state.

    Engr. Abounu thanked the Catholic Church for its immeasurable contributions to the development of humanity as seen in its interventions in the health and educational sector, as well as human development initiatives.

    He commended Bishop Anagbe for standing solidly behind the government and people of the state against the murderous activities of the killer herdsmen.

  • What politicians can learn from Jesus Christ, by cleric

    What politicians can learn from Jesus Christ, by cleric

    The newly inducted Superintendent of Christ Apostolic Church (CAC) Testimony District, Ebute Metta Lagos, Pastor George Babatunde, has assured politicians who emulate Jesus Christ will succeed and write their names in gold.

    Jesus, according to him, epitomised selflessness and service to the interests of others, stating these attributes made him a successful leader.

    He said: “Jesus Christ was a leader. People didn’t die for him but He died for His followers. How many leaders are ready to lay down their lives for the comfort of those they are leading? Jesus had empathy.

    “He could easily put Himself in the shoes of others and that is why having taught them for three days, he had compassion on them that they must eat.

    “He used His divine power to provide food for them. Jesus Christ is a kind of leader who was not waiting for people’s applause. Even when people wanted to make him king, he objected.

    “Many of our politicians accumulated wealth for themselves at the detriment of the citizens. That kind of leadership is blind and short sighted.

    “The Lord Jesus sees the future He wants people to see and that is why He always talked about Heaven. He doesn’t want anything to block our vision of heaven. Jesus Christ is a leader who wants joy and peace of His people.”

    He spoke after his induction as the pioneer Superintendent in Lagos with reporters.

    He lamented the current crop of politicians in Nigeria seek leadership positions for personal aggrandizement rather than for service.

    Babatunde, who acknowledged that leadership at every level is challenging, expressed his dissatisfaction at the state of leadership in Nigeria.

    He said: “I believe the problem we are having in Nigeria is that, the orientation of politicians to seek office is not of service, but for personal aggrandisement. That is why when somebody wins an election, the next thing is to go and do thanksgiving and throw a party and people begin to congratulate him.

    “You will see people spending huge amount of money on advertisement in newspaper to congratulate him because they believe that it is their turn to share part of the cake.”

    The former Coordinator of CAC Youth Fellowship Akinyele Region stated political contestants are mostly individuals of questionable characters.

    “When it comes to the issue of governance, they come like people who have no conscience and who disregard people. One of them said that the public institutions are not helping matters, that immediately they became senators, some banks are after them to grant them credit up to millions of naira.

    “Some of them easily compromise the standard. That is why instead of having leadership for service, we are having leadership for selfishness and self-aggrandizement. Some of them did all manner of things to get there,” he explained.

    Ahead of 2023 general elections, he said Nigerians “should look at what the individuals have done in the past; we should look at their pedigree; we should look at people who have good track records, not political parties” at the 2023 elections.”

    On his elevation, he said: “By God’s grace, I have occupied some leadership positions in the church of God and every time I’m appointed or elevated I take it as an opportunity to solve problems. Someone who wants to become a leader must be ready to lay down his life for his followers.”

     

  • ‘Nigeria needs urgent rescue mission’

    ‘Nigeria needs urgent rescue mission’

    Presiding Pastor of Living Spring Chapel Lagos, Pastor Femi-Emmanuel, speaks with Sunday Oguntola on state of the nation. Excerpts:

    What is your assessment of the nation?

    It’s pathetic. We are retrogressing. We are losing grip. Everything is in abeyance. This unfortunately is not what we desired, voted for or had expected but unfortunately the government of the day seems to have lost grip of what governance is all about. Citizens are suffering. The economy is down. Naira is on a free fall. Nothing is moving.

    The whole state is in a redundancy mode, the whole nation. There is decadence everywhere. States cannot pay salaries. Businessmen are crying. Naira’s value is dead. It is still falling; nobody knows where it will stop. And of course, when you have a problem with the currency of the nation, it affects everybody. The church is mostly affected as a distribution centre because the church governance is welfarist as it takes care of the welfare of the members.

    We have a system where the government is the biggest spender. And when there is a hitch there, it affects everybody. So, this is the wrong structure we have built. People say the government has no business in business but in Nigeria everybody looks up to the government. The 36 Governors run to Abuja to collect money. No nation can survive that way.

    So you support restructuring?

    Seriously, I do. I mean we cannot continue like this. We are just a step away from falling over.

    What kind of restructuring because it means different things to different people? 

    Well, the restructuring we’re talking about is Nigeria with over 250 ethnic nationalities was forced together under marriage of convenience and the different zones, different tribes are calling for self-actualisation. So, there is no way we could have it the way we are going about it. If we are going to have federalism, let it be true federalism. And I think the national conference of 2014 will help us. It is surprising to me that the President is saying he has not even touched it; it’s gathering dust on the shelf.

    That’s unfortunate because it is so clear that this nation cannot continue this way. So the restructuring I have in mind is I think the national conference was a blueprint. We may not be able to accept all the recommendations but there are good recommendations. For example, we can’t accept a recommendation like 18 additional States when the existing States can’t even survive but there are good recommendations like community policing, state police, each state generating their resources, federal centres and regionalisation.

    But why do we need another referendum when the National Assembly is supposed to deliberate on this?

    The truth is democracy, especially the presidential system, if I want to be very frank with you, is not meant for us. We can’t run it. It’s meant for the mature minds. It’s meant for people who are humane; it’s meant for people who value integrity and their name. It’s not for this corrupt society. Everybody wants what he can steal. Look at what is happening at the National Assembly, look at the padding. Look at what is happening with the security vote of the Governors. Where else do you see that all over the world? Look at the huge money stolen from the system. It’s surprising. It is even amazing that Nigeria could be sustained till today. So, this democratic presidential system of governance is not sustainable. There is this Nigerian factor, the tribal card, religious card we play.

    But when will we ever get over all these?

    We will never get over it.

    Why?

    We are not wired that way. Remember that what is called Nigeria itself is a contraption. It is a lie. We are never the same people. This nation is never one. It was the Lord Lugard crisis that we are in. Even when the British people came, they saw that we were never one. The North was having indirect rule. They studied us and knew we were not the same people. And how do you merge people that don’t see things the same way? Different values, different orientations, different mindset. There is no way.

    It has never worked. It is not working. And it will not work because we are not the same people. We don’t have the same values. We are not seeing things the same way. If we are not careful, if we don’t restructure the way we have explained it, we are heading for doomsday because we are just not the same people.

    Isn’t that a call for fragmentation?

    Let us agree how we are going to live together, let us agree on things that we can agree on. And let everybody go and take his own life in his own hands. Awolowo built the old Western region without oil. So each region can generate resources if we have not spoilt ourselves by running to Abuja.

    But all these issues predate the current administration, don’t they?

    Yes. Where we are now is a product of the military. 35 years of militarism had killed this country. Remember it was the military that introduced corruption. And then the civilian government came, accentuated it and took it to another level. Now, an average Nigerian just wants to steal the whole country and sell it without remembering that his siblings and parents are within the same system. It has become an obsession, everybody just wants money. And that is going to continue until we do something very serious about it, which is what we are saying.

    So how we can get out of these?

    We must get out of this because we are where we are heading for the rock. I am optimistic if the government of the day will listen with the political will. That national conference of 2014, I believe, is divine. People said Jonathan just did it to get support across the nation.

    That was what he did. Jonathan did it. It was a joker. But whatever it is, Jonathan is no longer there. And that document has some usefulness for us. And I don’t see any of this government setting up another national conference, look at the huge money we spent. Whether Jonathan has a hidden agenda or not, the country was fairly represented. I mean, what we have in the National Assembly is not a representation of the people. An average member of the National Assembly is a stooge. An average member of the National Assembly bought his way there. You either pay your way through or you are sent there by a godfather whose interest you must cater for. So 80% of the people in the National Assembly have no mind of their own.

    Democracy is not supposed to run that way. Immediately after the election, party affiliation is one side, you will now contribute depending on the way you see it. That is not what is going on. Imagine the Senate President going to court and over 90 senators are following him. It’s shameful. It’s never heard. Somebody sent you there, you are fighting to ensure that you go there again, he who pays the piper dictates the tune. That’s the reason behind all this mind boggling stealing, so that you have enough money to fight the next election. Buy property everywhere. No nation survives that way. We must even thank God to have made it to this time.

    So do we need a referendum or restructuring?

    True federalism, restructuring, let’s agree on what is agreeable. A weaker centre and let’s give more power to the regions. We have too many States. It’s obvious now as States can salaries, they are borrowing money. For how long will that continue?

    We are getting bailout funds.

    That bailout is not a gift. They deducted it back. So some states will go home with less than a billion. They can’t even buy fuel and service their vehicle. So for how long are we going to continue postponing the evil days? Not going for referendum, not agreeing at restructuring or federalism is postponing the evil days. Sometimes ignorance is bliss because when you know, you become more restless. It’s like a blind man about to fall into a ditch who doesn’t know anything except rescued. Nigeria needs to be rescued. We are at a precipice, we must not follow over. And it’s about to fall over. We just pray for God’s intervention. It’s frightening.

  • No health without mental health – Gbonjubola Abiri

    No health without mental health – Gbonjubola Abiri

    Dr Gbonjubola Abiri is a Consultant Psychiatrist, Managerial Psychologist, Professional Speaker and the Medical Director of Tranquil and Quest. She recently pioneered Nigeria’s first, one of a kind, Mental Health Advocacy Digital Network – ‘Mental Health TV with Dr G’ on YouTube.In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, the lady who is a Fellow of the West Africa College of Physicians (WACP), a member of Nigerian Medical Association (NMA), the Employee Assistance Professional Association (EAPA) and the American Psychiatric Association (APA) takes you into her world.

    You have taken particular interest in mental health which led to seeking mediums to pass this message, how have you continued this drive?

    When we say ‘there’s no health without mental health’, it’s not a cliche, it’s the truth. The reason we are able to do this interview is because we are both presently of optimal mental health. Seeing patients living with mental illnesses, and watching how it impacts negatively on their personal lives, relationships with family and friends, as well as their contributions to the environment can be disheartening. This is in addition to the toll it takes on their families, friends and loved ones is more than enough motivation to do the work. The drive is of course strengthened by the resolve to ensure mental health promotion and prevention of mental health disorders in the general population, while also ensuring that persons with mental disorders are given the best attention to manage their health so that they can live their best lives, in spite of their conditions.

    You just launched a mental health TV (Dr G) on YouTube, what should we be expecting from it?

    The Mental health with Dr G advocacy platform launched its newest project on the 10th of October which is the World Mental Health Day. Prior to now, my team and I had used engaging and innovative ways to target and reach our audience via videos, illustrative cartoons and posts to increase mental health awareness.

    The platform, (Mental Health TV with Dr G) is to ensure continued conversations around matters bordering on mental health, from daily posts, cartoons, to talk shows, documentaries and interviews all informing and educating all and sundry irrespective of where they are in the world on all things mental health.  The channel also encourages collaborative effort as it provides an avenue for other mental health professionals to put their content in there. Together we can do much.

    Young people are having mental health issues from drug addiction.  What has been your experience working with young people?

    The issue of drug addiction is one conversation that I often say that we are not yet ready to have and a reality we are unlikely to be able to confront effectively.

    A large number of the population especially youths are battling the issue of substance abuse disorders. The reason for this often times may be linked to dysfunctional family settings, traumatic life and adverse childhood experiences, the availability and euphoric effects of these substances, peer pressure as well as the exposure to vices from the other cultures as well.

    Unfortunately it’s a conversation that people shy away from having, like the proverbial ostrich with head in sand.

    Young people are quite impressionable so they could find themselves testing out different substances all in a bid to numb pain, escape harsh reality or please their friends. A trial then becomes a habit and thus constitutes a substance abuse problem. A lot more effort by all of us has to be put in place so that people especially young ones are aware of the dangers these substances poses to both body and mind. This will dissuade them from these habits.

    What dreams did you have while growing up?

    I had dreams to be able to help people out of the pain and suffering that diseases cause with the knowledge of medicine I would eventually have.

    Tell us about your experience as Medical director at Tranquil and Quest and how this has influenced your personality today?

    My position has helped me to appreciate that Leadership is not an easy feat.

    It has helped me to learn to better manage myself and others, work as part of a team, and understand what motivates my staff as well.

    The position has helped enrich my personality as I consciously and deliberately work in hand with my staff, putting their emotions and humanity into place as we strive to provide excellence in the field of Mental health.

    I would say that so far, it has helped me appreciate the human mind more and the many wonderful things it can conceive and eventually achieve. This has inspired me to see to it that everyone I come across learns how important their mental health is even at the workplace.

    What are some of the lessons learnt working on child and adolescent forensic mental health?

    My work with children and adolescents in the juvenile justice systems opened up my eyes more to how traumatic the society can be and how trauma is a fact of life for even children.

    I had the opportunity to interact with children from all walks of life who were from dysfunctional homes where parents did not want them, were unwilling to cater to them, or where caregivers showed them no love and affection.

    Many ran away from home seeing the streets as a safe haven, while many became unruly, with parents unable to control them. For some others, in spite of being young, they had started to engage in crime or were used as tools of crime.

    If you see these children as the windows to their families, you will understand how problematic the society is.

    It further reinforces to me that we have to be intentional about our relationships as adults, about having children, about how we care for and nurture them and how we cater to their needs in general. Like Mahatma Gandhi said: “The true measure of any society can be found in how it treats its most vulnerable members.”

    Tell us about the things that drives you?

    Knowing that mental illnesses has nothing to do with age, gender, religion or social economic status makes it easy for me to want to tell people about their mental health. The ignorance about matters bordering on mental health is quite appalling and has reinforced negative stereotypes about the condition over the years. This of course affects the perception of people suffering from mental illness and their willingness to see help. This of course affects their quality of life, interactions with others and even job or financial opportunities.

    These individuals can live and lead their best lives, in spite of their challenges.

    To see my patients heal and get better is such a joy!

    To see them reach their potentials in spite of their seeming limitations is bliss.

    To have them engage in and enjoy thriving relationships as well as become productive and have a good quality of life is what I live for.

    I am committed to ensuring because when people know better they will act better and be better.

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

    Firstly, I would like to see a Nigeria where mental health is given centre stage attention so that every individual is aware of how to ensure their best health.

    We need to increase awareness about mental health issues while working hard at tackling stigma, discrimination and ignorance.

    We need to get to a point where we understand that Mental health is everyone’s business, not just that of the professionals.

    Of course, it will be my joy to see the Government passing the Mental Health Bill. This will ensure that the rights of persons with mental illnesses are protected and that they have access to quality care.

    Did you have mentors at the beginning of your career?

    I had mentors even before my career started. My father, Dr Tunde Babalola, a medical doctor himself was my first mentor as I admired his kindness, passion and dedication to work. While in medical school, I was looked up to by many senior colleagues and esteemed teachers. As my career started however, my mentors have become more of those in my area of study.

    The place of mentors is invaluable as they guide, support, hold your hands, show you the ropes and encourage you on your journey. We all need mentors.

    What advice do you have for young people about the current challenges in the economy?

    I would like to say that as different challenges emerge in the country nearly daily and different unfavorable policies are enacted, we all must strive to stay positive and full of hope while we try to navigate our academics, careers, businesses and crafts, and never lose faith in ourselves.

    There are lots of legitimate opportunities that young people can take advantage of. They should take advantage of trends that youths can understand such as social media influencing, the field of IT and even learning a skill. There are so many skills which seem so little but the returns can be enormous.

    While it is not easy, they need to learn dignity in labour, patience, integrity and character as well, while also ensuring they remain in optimal mental health.