The rock-city of Abeokuta on Saturday stood still for the Achudumes and Chukwus as men and women from all walks of life converged at the sprawling Auditorium of the Victory Life Bible Church (VLBC) for the solemnization of holy matrimony between the son of the VLBC Founder, Apostle Lawrence Achudume, David Achudume and Precious Chukwu.
It was indeed an avenue for people, especially the female folks, to display their high fashion sense, as they donned various exquisitely designed traditional outfits in the colours of purple and pink.
The auditorium indeed had a touch of class with the eye-popping drapes, lighting, audio-visual gadgets and alluring decorations adding splendour to the atmosphere.
Delivering the sermon titled, ‘A blueprint for a successful and enduring marriage,’ the eloquent Overseer of the Citadel Global Community Church, Pastor Tunde Bakare, described marriage as God’s idea and not that of man.
According to him, God saw the need for the creation of woman to be a helper and supporter to man.
Noting that every individual is an ambassador of his or her family, therefore, the need for everyone to always be of good conduct and do that which is just and in accordance with the injunctions of God.
The respected Man-of-God urged the husband not to argue with his wife, no matter the circumstances, but must settle whatever differences that may come up amicably.
“Marriage must constantly bring pleasure to God, and you both must always work together for a lasting union.”
The number one man in Ogun State, Governor Dapo Abiodun, represented by the Head of Service, Mr Kehinde Onasanya in his goodwill message, observed that the couple perfectly complements each other, urging them to remain as one for their wedlock to stand the test of time.
“It is the joy of every parent to see their children walk down the aisle, as marriage is one of the mundane obligations in life”.
The Akwa-Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Bassey Uno, while intimating the congregation on the special bond between his family and the Achudumes noted that it was indeed his pleasure to be at the auspicious occasion.
The Ogun State Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), the Right Reverend Emmanuel Adekunle was the officiating Minister, the Former President of the Pentecostal Fellowship Of Nigeria (PFN), Bishop Francis Wale- Oke presented the marriage certificate while Bishop Funke Adejumo led other invited Ministers of God to pray for the couple.
Dignitaries at the event include Former President, Chief Olusegun Obasanjo who was represented by his wife, Mrs Bola Obasanjo, The Osile of Oke-Ona Egba, Oba Adedapo Tejuoso and his Oloris, The Olowu Of Owu Kingdom, Oba Saka Matemilola who was represented by titled Chiefs, the wife of the Ogun State Governor, Mrs Bamidele Abiodun, Immediate Past Governor of Ogun State, Senator Ibikunle Amosun who was represented by his doting wife, Dr Olufunsho Amosun, the immediate Past Governor of Akwa-Ibom State, Mr Udom Emmanuel and his wife , Former Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Isola, renowned Chattered Accountant and International Business Lawyer, Dr.Gbenga Adeoye, Eminent Clerics, and General Managers of Media Organisations.
The family in a statement said: “It is with profound sadness that we announce the passing of Bolaji Olarewaju, affectionately known as “Big B,” a cherished father, husband, brother, and an esteemed figure in both the church community, an ordained Pastor in the RCCG and a giant in the music industry and our community.
“Bolaji left us on Easter Saturday, 19th April 2025, after a brief illness.
“His departure leaves a void in our hearts that can not be filled. Bolaji’s life was a testament to his passion for music, his unwavering faith, and his dedication to uplifting those around him. His legacy is not only in the melodies he created but in the lives he touched and the unquantifiable joy he spread.”
“Details regarding the obsequies will be shared in due course as we come together to celebrate Bolaji’s remarkable life and legacy. Thank you for respecting our wishes during this incredibly difficult time.”
For several years Bolaji organised annual concert tagged: “Turnitup With Big Bolaji” in Ibadan.
For her thriving care facilities in America and businesses that span Nigeria, the United Kingdom and the United States, US-based Nigerian, Dr. Mrs. Bolaji Akinmulero recently got honoured with the United Nations Outstanding Humanitarian Award, writes Chijioke Ezeali.
When Chief Dr. Mrs. Bolaji Akinmulero received the United Nations Outstanding Humanitarian Award in New York last month, the moment was both emotional and deeply inspiring.
Standing before global dignitaries at the United Nations Headquarters, Chief Akinmulero paused to reflect as she received the prestigious award, presented by the Permanent Mission of Senegal to the United States.
The honor recognises her decades of humanitarian service, global advocacy, and unwavering dedication to women’s empowerment across continents.
“This honour holds a special place in my heart,” Chief Akinmulero stated in her acceptance speech.
“I sincerely appreciate the recognition it represents and the opportunity it brings to continue making a difference.”
She emotionally dedicated the award to her late daughter, Mrs. Oluwafunmilayo Aderonke Akinmulero.
“Her memory is a guiding light in my life,” she said. “And I pray that her soul continues to rest in peace.”
Akinmulero is the Chief Executive Officer of four thriving care facilities in California: Divine Residential Group Home Corporation and Mercy Residential Home, among others.
Under her visionary leadership, these institutions have become benchmarks for high-quality, person-centered care for vulnerable populations.
Her leadership spans the full spectrum of healthcare facility management—from regulatory compliance and financial planning to staff development and resident well-being. Her work has consistently promoted compassionate care, dignity, and strong community relationships.
Beyond healthcare, Chief Akinmulero is a dynamic international businesswoman with ventures spanning Nigeria, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
Her business portfolio includes interests in real estate, agriculture, transportation, and logistics, where she has built bridges across international markets and empowered numerous women in business.
Cultural Pride and Family Support
Born into the revered Oyebobola family of Owo, Ondo State, Nigeria, Chief Akinmulero holds the traditional title of Yeye-Oba of HRM Dr. Babatunde Michael Ayeyowa, the Lumure of Ayeka Kingdom, Okitipupa Local Government.
She remains a strong advocate for youth development, women’s rights, and cultural preservation.
Her brother, Chief Olawande Oyebobola, the Akinle of Ayeka Kingdom, expressed his pride: “Bolaji has always led with heart and purpose. This award is proof that even global institutions recognise what we have always known—she is a light to this generation.”
Another sibling, Pastor Ayodeji Emmanuel Oyebobola, shared his admiration: “Her strength comes from deep faith and compassion. Our family is blessed by her example, and the world is better because of her calling to serve.”
With British-Nigerian citizenship and U.S. permanent residency, Chief Akinmulero bridges traditional values with modern leadership, maintaining strong ties to her heritage while operating on global platforms.
At her care facilities in California, her dedication is evident.
“She’s always the first to arrive and the last to leave,” said Maria Gonzalez, a nurse manager. “Even with the UN award, she came back to work the next day like nothing changed.”
In memory of her daughter, Chief Akinmulero has announced plans to expand her women’s empowerment programmes and launch a memorial foundation focused on uplifting underserved communities.
“This award is not a destination, but a call to deeper service,” she said. “Aderonke’s light shines on, and through this mission, she lives.”
With her latest global recognition, calls are growing for her expertise to be tapped at the national level, with reports suggesting that international organisations are also seeking partnerships to scale her impact in humanitarian work.
How Nigerians are damaging their vital organs, dying due to reckless indulgence
Every day in Nigeria, people take medicines without seeing a doctor. Instead of going to the hospital, they buy drugs from roadside chemists, untrained sellers, or even take advice from friends. A small headache, cough, or red eye is treated with any available drug, often without knowing the dangers. But using the wrong medicine can make things worse, cause serious health problems, or even lead to death.
Many people have lost their sight, damaged their kidneys, or suffered other life-threatening conditions because of self-medication. Yet, dangerous habits continue because hospital care is expensive, hard to reach, or takes too much time. But how many more people must suffer before we realise that taking medicine without a doctor’s advice can be deadly? Chinyere Okoroafor report.
Mrs. Ikenna (not her real name) had trouble seeing with her left eye for a long time. Her vision was blurry because she had a severe cataract. One day, her eye became very red and painful. Instead of going to a doctor, she went to a roadside chemist to get medicine.
The chemist looked at her eye and gave her steroid eye drops, telling her it would help. But Mrs. Ikenna did not know that the drops were dangerous for her condition. Instead of making her better, the drops increased the pressure inside her eye, worsening the problem.
The next morning, as she was walking to the market, she felt a sharp pain in the troubled eye. Suddenly, her eye burst, and the lens fell out. She was in shock and in extreme pain.
She lost that eye completely and now makes do with only her right eye.
While Mrs. Ikenna’s story is a serious warning on the dangers of self-medication, her case is not an isolated one. Even public figures have suffered similar consequences due to prolonged self-medication. A Nollywood actress and producer, Ufuoma McDermott also experienced a life-threatening health crisis caused by excessive use of painkiller.
In a recent interview With Chude on YouTube, McDermott revealed that her prolonged use of strong painkillers to manage chronic migraines led to the development of kidney disease. Initially diagnosed with Stage 3 kidney disease after a 12-year struggle, she was advised to reduce her workload and rest. However, she delayed making these lifestyle changes, which resulted in the progression to Stage 4 kidney disease, the final stage.
During this period, McDermott faced severe health challenges, including six months of immobility and an inability to work. Reflecting on her ordeal, she acknowledged that her condition was a direct consequence of drug abuse, specifically the excessive intake of painkillers. This experience has profoundly transformed her perspective on life, leading her to prioritise her health and adopt a more private lifestyle.
The women’s stories show why people need to be more aware of the dangers of self-medication. Taking drugs without a doctor’s advice can lead to serious health problems, sometimes with no chance of recovery.
Scary statistics
Self-medication is a significant public health concern in Nigeria, with studies indicating a high prevalence among various populations. For instance, a study conducted among market women in the Ifako-Ijaiye area of Lagos, Nigeria, identified education, specifically literacy and public health education, as the primary factors influencing self-medication practices. The research published in the African Journal of Medicine and Medical Sciences revealed that many of these women rely on patent medicine dealers for medication information and procurement, particularly among those with lower educational levels.
Another study published in the African Journal of Health Sciences found that 69.4% of Nigerians practise self-medication, treating conditions like headaches, fever, coughs, and infections without seeing a doctor.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), medication harm accounts for 50% of the overall preventable harm in medical care. Furthermore, the African region has the highest prevalence of substandard and counterfeit medicines among low- and middle-income countries, with a rate of 18.7%. But why do so many people take this risk?
Why do Nigerians prefer self-medication?
During a visit to Oshodi, a bustling commercial centre/bus terminal on Mainland Lagos, to understand why people resort to self-medication, this reporter spoke with a commuter bus driver popularly known as danfo, Sodiq. He explained that many avoid hospitals due to the high cost of medical care, opting instead for cheaper, over-the-counter drugs or advice from chemists.
He said: “Seeing a doctor, doing tests, and buying prescribed medicine costs a lot; so people look for cheaper options like over-the-counter drugs or advice from untrained chemists.”
Although the cost of medical consultations in Nigeria varies significantly between private and government hospitals, it is also influenced by factors such as hospital location, the specialist’s expertise, and the facility’s reputation.
Consultation fees in government hospitals are generally more affordable. For example, the Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Ebute Metta, Lagos lists consultation and utility fees at ₦300 for the General Outpatient Clinic (GOPC) and ₦500 for all specialty clinics.
These rates make government hospitals more accessible to the general public, particularly for routine consultations. However, additional costs, such as for admission, diagnostics tests, and medications can add up. Bed space fees in some government hospitals have increased, ranging from ₦25,000 to ₦40,000 per admission, depending on the ward and services required.
Meanwhile, these consultation fees often exclude additional expenses like laboratory tests, medications, and hospital stays, which can further increase the overall cost of healthcare. For instance, at the Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH), upfront payments range from ₦15,000 to ₦50,000 in the children’s ward and at least ₦100,000 in the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). These costs can be substantial, especially for individuals without health insurance coverage, potentially leading them to seek alternative, less expensive healthcare options.
Private hospitals in Lagos and other urban centers typically charge much higher fees for consultations and treatments. Depending on the facility and the doctor’s expertise, consultation fees can range from ₦5,000 to ₦15,000 for general consultations and ₦20,000 to ₦50,000 for specialist consultations.
In addition to consultation fees, private hospitals charge significantly higher amounts for admission, laboratory tests, surgeries, and critical care services. Many Nigerians unable to afford these costs turn to over-the-counter medications or traditional remedies, further fueling the issue of self-medication.
Another reason people self-medicate is the long waiting time and distance to hospitals.
A primary school teacher, simple known as Mummy Ada, explained that public hospitals are often overcrowded with long queues that make people avoid seeking professional care there.
“How many healthcare facilities are in our rural areas? In many villages, there are very few healthcare facilities, so people have no choice but to treat themselves,” she added.
The National President, Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists of Nigeria (AMLSN), an Infectious Disease/Public health expert, Dr. Casmir Ifeanyi, highlighted lack of awareness as another major reason for self-medication in Nigeria.
He explained that many Nigerians do not understand the risks involved. “People assume that if a drug worked for a friend or family member, it will work for them too,” she said.
He also noted that many misuse antibiotics and painkillers, unaware of the long-term damage these drugs can cause.
A Nigerian pharmacist based in the United States, Dr. Christian Ike, identified easy access to prescription medication as the leading cause of self-medication in Nigeria.
“Why should powerful drugs like antibiotics, painkillers and steroids be sold freely without a doctor’s prescription?” he questioned.
Dr. Ike who is also the President/Chief Executive Officer of Social Circle Pharmacy, Georgia, further expressed concern that roadside chemists and unlicensed drug vendors continue to sell these medications without proper knowledge of their use, dosage, or side effects. Despite this, NAFDAC, the agency responsible for regulating drugs, has failed to enforce strict measures to curb the practice.
Dangers of self-medication
Self-medication may seem harmless, but it comes with serious risks.
Explaining Mrs. Ikenna’s condition, an eye specialist, Dr. Emmanuel Utomi, in an interview with The Nation said she had hyper-mature cataracts, “Ordinarily, she ought to have had surgery to remove the cataracts. But instead, she tried to treat herself, leading to a far worse outcome.
“Eye issues are unique and can only be treated by eye doctors, not general practitioners, not pharmacists, and certainly not through self-treatment,” he warned.
Yet, in Nigeria, many people assume that all eye problems can be solved with over-the-counter drugs or home remedies. This misconception has led to severe complications, including blindness.
Mrs. Ikenna’s case became worse because the chemist gave her steroid eye drops, a medication Dr. Utomi explained should never be sold without a prescription.
“Steroid eye drops, because of the damage they can do, should only be prescribed by eye doctors. They are not over-the-counter (OTC) medications. Steroids can mask inflammation and increase intraocular pressure, leading to glaucoma and, ultimately, blindness,” he said.
He explained that although the steroid drops initially reduced the redness, they masked the real issue, allowing the condition to worsen unnoticed. By the time she realised the damage, it was already beyond repair.
Dr. Utomi emphasised that a red, painful eye is an emergency.
“She noticed her eyes were red and painful. She ought to have gone straight to an eye hospital rather than attempting self-treatment,” he said.
Unfortunately, like many Nigerians, Mrs. Ikenna dismissed the early warning signs, believing she could handle the problem herself.
For Dr. Ike, self-meditation can cause organ damage and side effects. He explained that painkillers and other strong drugs can harm vital organs when taken without medical supervision. “Many Nigerians suffer from kidney failure and liver damage due to excessive use of painkillers like ibuprofen and paracetamol; they have to stop before it becomes too late.”
He emphasised that McDermott’s struggle with kidney disease is a powerful warning about the dangers of self-medication, “What started as a simple reliance on painkillers gradually led to severe organ damage, showing how unchecked drug use can turn minor health issues into life-threatening conditions.”
He noted that many people underestimate the risks of taking medications without a doctor’s supervision. “Kidney failure, liver damage, and other serious complications don’t happen overnight. They build up over time due to repeated misuse of drugs,” he explained.
Dr. Ike also explained that some medications can cause severe allergic reactions, leading to breathing difficulties, rashes, or even death. In cases of overdose, self-medication can poison the body, leading to coma or fatal complications.
According to a Professor of Pharmaceutical Microbiology at the University of Ibadan, Iruka Okeke, one of the biggest dangers of self-medication is antibiotic resistance.
“Many Nigerians take antibiotics for minor illnesses like colds or headaches, not realising that these drugs do not work for viral infections,” she explained.
She warned that misusing antibiotics allows bacteria to develop resistance, making infections harder to treat in the future. “If this continues, we may reach a point where common infections become life-threatening because antibiotics no longer work,” she added.
Just like in Mrs. Ikenna and McDermott’s case, taking the wrong medication can worsen a condition rather than cure it. Instead of addressing the real problem, self-medication often hides symptoms, giving a false sense of relief while the illness silently progresses. By the time proper medical care is sought, it may already be too late for effective treatment.
Evil of roadside chemists
Experts are of the opinion that one of the major enablers of self-medication in Nigeria is the unregulated sale of prescription drugs. Many chemists operate without proper training, selling drugs based on guesswork rather than medical knowledge. These sellers often recommend medications based on symptoms alone, without conducting proper diagnosis or tests.
They have repeatedly called for stricter enforcement of Nigeria’s drug laws to stop chemists from selling dangerous medications without prescriptions. Experts warn that the unchecked sale of powerful drugs, such as antibiotics and steroids, puts millions at risk of serious health complications. Without proper regulation, self-medication will continue to endanger lives.
For Dr. Ike, the National Agency for Food and Drug Administration and Control (NAFDAC) and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) need to crack down on illegal drug vendors and ensure that only licensed professionals can sell prescription drugs.
Although NAFDAC has been actively addressing the issue, recognising its significant public health implications and the importance of consulting healthcare professionals before taking any medication.
In May 2021, the Agency launched a sensitisation campaign aimed at encouraging Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises (MSMEs) to register their products, urging consumers to source medicines from reputable outlets.
Despite NAFDAC’s continuous efforts to regulate drug sales and combat self-medication, significant challenges persist. One major setback is the agency’s withdrawal from Nigerian ports, which weakened its ability to effectively monitor and control the importation of counterfeit medicines. Without a strong presence at entry points, the influx of fake and substandard drugs has remained a critical public health threat.
NAFDAC has identified various forms of counterfeit drugs circulating in Nigeria, including those with no active ingredients, incorrect formulations, or insufficient doses of essential compounds. These substandard drugs not only fail to treat illnesses but can also lead to severe health complications and increased antimicrobial resistance.
The agency acknowledges that the widespread availability of fake medicines is largely due to gaps in drug regulation and limited access to affordable, quality medications. Many Nigerians turn to unregulated sources, such as roadside chemists and illegal vendors, as a result of these challenges.
Additionally, NAFDAC’s regulatory efforts are often hindered by bureaucratic inefficiencies and occasional allegations of corruption. These systemic issues delay inspections, weaken enforcement measures, and create loopholes that allow the continued distribution of counterfeit drugs.
Until these structural problems are effectively addressed, experts are of the opinion that self-medication and the circulation of unsafe drugs will remain a major public health concern in Nigeria.
How to stop self-medication
To prevent more cases like Mrs. Ikenna and McDermott’s, urgent action is needed at different levels.
Dr. Utomi emphasised the need for a public awareness campaign to address the dangers of self-medication.
“The government, health organisations and the media must work together to educate Nigerians on the risks involved. People need to understand that no drug should be taken without a doctor’s prescription, and even common medications can be dangerous if misused,” he said.
He stressed that nationwide campaigns should focus on promoting safe medication practices and encouraging people to seek professional medical advice rather than self-diagnosing or relying on untrained vendors.
Dr. Ike stressed the need for stricter drug regulations to curb the reckless sale of prescription medications.
“NAFDAC and the Pharmacists Council of Nigeria (PCN) must enforce stricter laws to stop the sale of prescription drugs without proper medical approval,” he said.
He further emphasised the importance of monitoring chemists and pharmacies to ensure they comply with regulations, warning that failure to do so puts public health at serious risk.
Dr. Ike urged Nigerians to seek medical attention early instead of waiting until their condition worsened.
“People should see a doctor at the first sign of illness rather than resorting to self-medication. Hospitals and health workers also have a role to play in educating patients on the proper use of medications,” he said.
He also called on the government to make healthcare more affordable and accessible. According to him, expanding the National Health Insurance Scheme (NHIS) and establishing more public health centers would help ease the financial burden on Nigerians, reducing their dependence on self-medication.
Think before you take that pill
Mrs. Ikenna and McDermott’s stories are just one of many. Every day, Nigerians gamble with their health by taking unprescribed drugs, hoping for quick relief. But the reality is that self-medication is a silent killer, one that can lead to blindness, kidney failure, drug resistance, or even death.
Both women now live with the consequences of one wrong decision. Their experiences serve as a reminder that no drug should be taken lightly, and proper medical consultation can be the difference between recovery and permanent damage.
The next time you feel unwell, resist the urge to visit a chemist or take drugs based on advice from a friend. Instead, seek medical help. Your health is too precious to risk on guesswork.
The National Orientation Agency’s prompt identification of misconduct in the implementation of the Federal Student Loan Fund showcases the agency’s commitment to its mandate, writes Gboyega Alaka.
Last weekend, the National Orientation Agency (NOA) alerted Nigerians, particularly students in tertiary institutions, about unethical practices it discovered regarding the disbursement of the Federal Student Loan Fund by certain tertiary institutions and banks.
This situation arose from the discovery that tertiary institutions, with the complicity of banks, are conspiring to shortchange beneficiaries of the National Education Loan Fund (NELFUND). NELFUND is the organisation legally established to manage the daily operations of the fund. Its primary objective is to provide financial support to qualified Nigerians through interest-free loans for tuition, fees, and living expenses during their time at approved tertiary academic and vocational institutions, as well as skills acquisition programmes within the country.
The discovery was announced by Mallam Lanre Issa-Onilu, the Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), following a meeting with Mr. Akintunde Sawyerr, the Managing Director of NELFUND. Issa-Onilu indicated that the latest report from the NOA’s Community Orientation and Mobilisation Officers (COMO) revealed concerning information. It suggested that officials at tertiary institutions, in collusion with banks, have been shortchanging eligible beneficiaries and obstructing the operations of the fund by withholding essential information regarding loan disbursements.
The Director-General of the NOA specifically stated that officials at institutions of higher learning, along with their accomplices in banking institutions, are intentionally delaying payments to successful student applicants for personal financial gain. In some cases, universities have failed to acknowledge fund disbursements by NELFUND and have not communicated these disbursements to the students who were successful in their applications.
This issue was further confirmed by the Managing Director of NELFUND, who noted that certain institutions are neglecting to inform students about loan disbursements made on their behalf. As a result, these institutions are leaving students, whose tuition fees have already been paid by NELFUND, to seek additional funds to cover their tuition, potentially disrupting their studies.
“Recent findings by NELFUND have shown that some institutions have received student loan disbursements directly into their accounts, yet neglect to inform the affected students or record the payments in their financial records, leading to unnecessary confusion. Withholding critical financial information from students is not only unethical but also a breach of the principles on which NELFUND was founded. We are prepared to take legal action against any institution engaged in such deceptive practices,” said Saywerr.
His confirmation was immediately followed by a stern warning to the affected institutions and their collaborating banking partners to cease all activities without delay. To ensure compliance with this directive, the NOA instructed its state-level directorates to gather additional feedback from students nationwide. This feedback will help the Federal Government take appropriate actions against the institutions involved in these unethical practices.
The decision of the NOA to blow the lid on the misconduct demonstrates its vigilance. This action aims to encourage both beneficiaries and the broader public to remain alert, helping to alleviate the financial pressure on students and their parents or guardians, who are often burdened with the search for alternative funding.
Figures released by NELFUND in December 2024 indicated that as of November 29 of the same year, loans had been disbursed to a total of 613,734 students in approved tertiary institutions across the country since the programme’s inception. The funds disbursed include institutional fees, which are typically paid directly to the institutions, as well as upkeep loans that are deposited directly into the accounts provided by successful applicants.
A total of 320,837 applicants applied for institutional fees, resulting in the disbursement of N33.9 billion. Additionally, N70.2 billion was provided as upkeep loans to 292,897 applicants.
These loans have allowed students to continue their education without the fear of dropping out, preventing potential disruptions in their studies.
The NOA’s intervention pleased many students, some of whom took to the agency’s X handle to express their satisfaction. Many others confirmed the findings of the investigation and shared their struggles with obtaining refunds for the fees they were forced to pay when their institutions did not inform them that NELFUND had disbursed loans to cover these fees.
One of such handles @NELFUNDBENEFIARIESNIGERIA thanked the NOA for looking out for the students, adding that it appreciates the bold step of calling out erring institutions and their collaborators. “Thank you@NOA_Nigeria for standing with Nigerian students! As NELFUND Beneficiaries, we’ve witnessed firsthand how some institutions withhold disbursed funds. We appreciate this bold step and hope to see swift action. Every student deserves transparency and access. #NELFUNDcares”
Another X user, @ramytrase, described the Student Loan initiative as one of the best policies of the current government and called for an end to its abuse by unscrupulous people. “This is one of the best policy (sic) that has touch (sic) the lives of Nigerians. Please help us checkmate those who want to undermine it (sic) success. Those institution depriving students from benefitting from this (sic) initiatives must be prosecuted,” he wrote.
One Deji Idowu, posting from the handle, @dygee_web3, suggested that the NOA’s disclosure may have stuck a pin in the balloon of the unethical practices by the institutions and banks. “Some of the schools may have done a quick one with the banks to fix the monies due to students so that can accrue interest. This endemic corruption is gonna finish Nigeria if something drastic is not done. Haba,” he posted.
The NOA’s investigation into the questionable practices within the student loan initiative supports the widely held belief that the agency, under its current leadership, is becoming more relevant to citizens and the nation. This is due to a realignment of its activities aimed at delivering long-lasting benefits in the form of meaningful, value-driven change.
The proposed societal change is being implemented through a series of initiatives and programmes centered around the National Values Charter. This charter serves as a social contract that includes seven promises from the country and seven responsibilities for its citizens. The aim of this approach is to foster patriotism through mutual accountability between the government and the people. This marks a shift from the previous strategy, which was primarily focused on what citizens could do for the country without reciprocating responsibilities from the government.
The NOA also developed the CLHEEAN community project, which is designed to deliver a variety of interventions across the country by addressing societal issues such as crime, lawlessness, health, environment, education, abuse and drug use. The agency is building capacity, expertise and deploying resources to implement credible campaigns to bring about the envisaged change. To make this vision a reality, the NOA has secured approval for policies aimed at reinforcing its role in promoting national values and identity. A key element of this initiative is the Citizen Value Brigade (CVB), which is designed to instill Nigerian values in children and nurture future leaders. This effort is further supported by ongoing advocacy for the development of local cartoon content to counter foreign influences and promote Nigerian culture, with the goal of fostering a distinctly Nigerian identity from childhood.
The agency has made efforts to revitalise national symbols, such as the national flag and anthem, by providing guidelines on their proper use and giving them new significance. Recognising the role of the media in shaping public perception, the agency introduced The Explainer newsletter to ensure the accurate and meaningful dissemination of information. The Explainer is a publication that provides robust reporting and analysis of government activities and achievements. Closely related to this, the agency established state-of-the-art audio-visual studios to enhance its communication capabilities, launched a more efficient and user-friendly website featuring an AI-powered voice and chat assistant. That way, the agency is able communicate directly to the citizens, with technology enabling the NOA to integrate its messaging, leveraging its presence in the 36 states of the federation, the Federal Capital Territory and the 774 local councils.
For many discerning consumers, every meal offers its own unique offering, and that is why a lot goes into a meal!
That is exactly the essence of Golden Terra Oil’s ‘Pour Pure Love’ campaign. The campaign’s core message emphasises that cooking is more than just preparing food; it’s an act of love. By using Golden Terra Oil, mothers pour not only pure oil but also pure love into their meals, giving both healthy diets and excellent taste.
The phrase ‘Pour Pure Love’ has transcended its origins, becoming a part of everyday language among Nigerians. It symbolises acts of kindness, generosity, and genuine care, reflecting the campaign’s impact on societal values.
From celebrating the love and dedication that mothers pour into every meal to neighbours helping each other, the campaign reflects real-life moments of kindness. It is now a part of everyday conversations, a phrase used to describe generosity and thoughtfulness.
Probal Bhattacharya, Chief Marketing Officer, TGI Group, reflected on the campaign’s development: “Developing the ‘Pour Pure Love’ campaign took an immense amount of thought and insight. We wanted to create a message that not only showcases our product’s quality but also resonates deeply with the values and emotions of our consumers. Seeing the phrase become a part of daily life is truly rewarding, it shows that love, when shared, multiplies.”
Golden Terra Oil’s campaign has gained admiration from consumers and accolades from the marketing industry. In September 2024, it won the Outstanding Campaign of the Year at the National Marketing Stakeholders Summit and Awards. It also received a Silverware in the Food and Consumable Products category at the Lagos Advertising and Ideas Festival (LAIF), recognising its creative excellence and deep emotional connection with audiences.
‘Pour Pure Love’ is a reminder that every small act of care leaves a lasting impact and just like Golden Terra Oil enriches every meal; it also enriches the world with generosity, warmth, and love, one act at a time.
Golden Terra Soya Oil is a premium, all-purpose cooking oil made from 100% pure soya beans, sourced and manufactured in Nigeria. It contains 5x more PUFA (Polyunsaturated Fatty Acids) proven to deliver numerous health benefits, like reducing cholesterol, maintaining a healthier heart, enhancing nerve function, boosting brain health, and supporting muscle strength.
AREWA24, Hausa language family entertainment and lifestyle television network and production studio in Nigeria and West Africa, has made new appointments.
Celestine Umeibe, currently AREWA24’s Deputy CEO and Chief Commercial Officer, will formally assume the role of Chief Executive Officer, succeeding Jacob Arback, who will move into the newly created role of Executive Vice Chairman.
Umeibe will continue to oversee the company’s commercial sales operations.
According to the new CEO, Umeibe: “Jacob Arback played a pivotal role in the remarkable success story of AREWA24 over the past decade. His unique yet inclusive leadership style enabled AREWA24 to navigate the business storms and challenges that often overwhelm start-ups, especially in this region. Mr. Arback’s elevation to the position of Executive Vice Chairman is well-deserved, and will no doubt continue to impact positively on the business.”
Outgoing CEO, Arback, had worked closely with Umeibe at AREWA24 since the network launched in 2014.
Arback stated that “There is nobody more qualified and capable to lead AREWA24’s second decade of growth and impact than Celestine. His natural leadership abilities, business and branding acumen and deep knowledge of our media and entertainment industry made Celestine an easy choice for our Board of Directors”.
“I’m very excited to watch how the next decade of creativity, innovation and growth plays out under his leadership. Since the very first days of AREWA24, Celestine has demonstrated passionate commitment to the ‘why’ of AREWA24.” to reflect and celebrate pride in local culture and in the local language of Hausa.”
With Umeibe’s over 10 years at AREWA24, his previous senior executive experience in commercial, marketing, and business positions at both StarTimes and TVC, he brings a wealth of experience to AREWA24’s rapidly changing television and media landscape, along with a focused vision for the company’s future. Mr. Umeibe will be tasked with blending creative programming decisions with technological innovation and the growth of new revenue streams in order toaccelerateAREWA24’s mission of becoming one of the top Pan African television, production and media companies on the continent.
Cooks slowly- The less obvious signs — how well your meat sears or how long it takes to cook a stew — will be more challenging to pick up on than scratches, chips, and flakes, but they are just as essential to note. If your food isn’t cooking evenly, some parts of the pan are getting hotter than others.
Warping- Is both a physical and performance-related indicator that your cookware isn’t working as designed, too.
Loose Handles- It’s not just the cooking surface that you should be wary of. Loose or damaged handles are another good indicator that your equipment might be too old.
We shall have a continuation of this write-up, we shall be looking at the best available cookware amongst others.
Experts drawn from diverse fields of human endeavours have charged individuals, business owners and employees to imbibe the spirit of tenacity, resilience, and the right mindset in order to overcome adversity in life or business.
This submission formed part of the highlight at the third edition of the Imperfectly Awesome Conversations Summit hosted by Omotola Bamigbaiye in Lagos, recently.
Imperfectly Awesome is Omotola Bamigbaiye’s ode to Resilience and Tenacity, which she first put together in her book titled, ‘Imperfectly Awesome.’
It was written in an honest and relatable tone to help people love themselves, reinvent, and bloom.
Delivering her welcome remarks at the occasion, the convener, Imperfectly Awesome Conversations Summit, Omotola Bamigbaiye, noted that the platform remains a veritable avenue for experts to share their experiences so that people can be inspired and learn from them.
Bamigbaiye said her experience had shown that failure or pitfall is not the end but an opportunity for growth.
In his keynote remarks, the Project Delivery Manager, NLNG, Amos Ologunleko, urged the gathering to begin to act like reformers who are ready to go against the norm and rebuild systems with clarity and courage.
Ologunleko, emphasising the need for the gathering to learn to take ownership as this remains a key principle of transformation, said learning to take responsibility as against passing the buck or blaming one another would go a long way to usher in growth and progress not only as an individual but as a business.
Speaking during the first panel session, the Marketing Manager, FrieslandCampina WAMCO, Omolara Banjoko, while drawing from her childhood experience noted that resilience was pivotal to overcoming challenges in life.
Banjoko, charging everyone to keep pushing regardless of whatever may be confronting them, emphasised the need for young people in the workplace to give adequate priority to their personal growth as they strive to reach their desired heights.
She underscored the significance of soft skills in the workplace as it remains a tool for professional excellence.
“These days, we take soft skills like precision, consistency, and discipline for granted, yet these are foundational to both personal and professional excellence,” she said.
In her remarks during another panel session, a transformation expert, Dr. Folakemi Fadahunsi explained that the best approach to overcoming impostor syndrome by any individual is to believe in oneself or develop a can-do spirit.
Also commenting, Senior National Program Specialist, United Nation Women, Patience Ekeoba stated that the society has been structured in a way that women suffer all forms of exclusion. Ekeoba called on men, employers of labour to reverse the trend by ensuring that women not only sit at the decision-making table or but also be given equal sense of belonging.
Also speaking during one of the panel sessions, Managing Consultant, BusinessMax Consulting, Alex Goma, stressed that every business person must learn to be persistent as this remains a key driver for success. Drawing from his experience, Goma stated that no business leader or person should see setbacks in sales as rejections, but rather as opportunities for self-evaluation and recalibration.
“If sale doesn’t happen, it means you haven’t sold the benefits in a way that meets the customer’s needs. Go back and refine your message. Don’t give up,” he said.
On her part, the Marketing Director, Moët Hennessy, Osato Evbuomwan, stated that mindset remains the cornerstone of both resilience and tenacity.
“Your mindset is the story you tell yourself when something goes wrong. It’s what determines how you show up the next day. If you tell yourself you’re a failure, you’ll show up as one. But if you believe it’s a lesson, you’ll keep growing,” she said.
The event featured three distinguished keynote speakers who dwelt on topics such as authentic storytelling, resilience and tenacity among others.
There were three panel sessions with a line-up of impressive speakers such as Global Strategy Consultant, Franklin Ezekhome, Founder/Creative Director of The Indigene, Abigail Tiwa Olanubi Host of The Word Café Podcast, The WordSmith, Amachree Isoboyei, Author/Founder Exquisite Magazine, Tewa Onasanya, among others.
Mrs. Ifeoma Iloadibe drove into the premises of the Tower Aluminium office located at Oba Akran Road, Ikeja, Lagos. Her mission was to repair the pot handles of four of her Tower pots and also find a replacement for the cover handles of two.
She parked in the spacious compound and reached into her back seat and dragged out a carrier bag that had the aluminium pots.
Walking confidently with the carrier bag, she went into one of the offices behind the company’s display hall. It was not her first time visiting the premises. In fact, it was her third time. She found out from her second visit that customers could actually bring their tower pots for repairs.
She brought out the pots happily from the bag, thinking that at least she would not have cause to start splashing money on entirely new pots.
As she was bringing them out, a staff of the company, who pleaded anonymity, as she was not authorized to speak on behalf of the company, collected the pots, intently inspecting them.
She asked Iloadibe what she wanted, and she explained she wanted the handles repaired. Looking from her to the pots, she asked if she was still cooking with those pots. When Iloadibe answered in the affirmative, the Lady told her that she had been consuming foods mixed with high doses of aluminium.
Describing the pots as health hazards, she said, “Madam, you are clearly consuming aluminium. Three of these pots have expired; there is no need to replace the handles because the pots are no longer good, the cooking surfaces have eroded,” noted the staff.
“Did you say it expired?” A clearly confused Iloadibe asked. “Do pots expire? I have never heard that aluminium pots expire,” said a surprised Iloadibe.
She noted that in her parents’ house in Enugu, most of the aluminium cooking pots were bought before they were born, meaning that the aluminium pots in her parents’ home were as old as 30 years.
“Yes, everything expires, and once that happens, aluminium seeps into any food cooked in that pot”. Aghast, Mrs. Iloadibe asked how to identify expired aluminium cooking pots.
Unfortunately, cooking pots generally do not have printed expiry dates like food items. Instead, their lifespan is determined by their material and how well they are cared for. Most nonstick cookware, for example, typically lasts about five years, but this can vary. Factors like the type of coating, how it is used, and how it is cleaned can all impact how long a pot or pan lasts
However, speaking, the female tower staff explained that “When aluminium cookware is used well over a period of five years, the tendency is that aluminium from the pots starts leaching into the food, when the food is being cooked or left in the pot over time.”
Explaining, she said, “You have made jollof rice in the pot, but inadvertently you end up eating the rice with loads of aluminium mixed with it. It is even worse when fresh leafy vegetables or tomatoes, which are quite acidic, are cooked in the pot because they absorb aluminium the most.”
Clarifying further, she said new aluminium cookware has no problem, but after a while, due to wear and tear occasioned by scouring and other wrong handling, aluminium leaches into food.
The only poison that can leach into food by cooking with aluminium cookware is the aluminium itself. The reason this became a concern is that large amounts of the material have been found in the brains of Alzheimer’s patients, which proves that aluminium crosses the blood/brain barrier. This does not establish a causal link, which would be needed to say definitively that aluminium in the brain causes Alzheimer’s disease.
But one may wonder if the leaching from cooking pots and pans is limited to only aluminium products. No, but we are particularly concerned because aluminium cookware is about the most popular, and the reason is not far-fetched. It is cheap and conducts heat very effectively.
However, we can also ingest aluminium from other sources. The environment provides many sources of aluminium beyond cookware. It occurs naturally in soil and can be absorbed by produce grown there. In addition, aluminium is added to many consumer goods, including antacids, haemorrhoid medication and other over-the-counter medicines; baking powder; boxed cake mixes; deodorants and antiperspirants; douches; processed cheese; pickles; toothpaste; and table salts, to name just a few. In other words, it’s nearly impossible to lead an aluminium-free life!
However, the body derives no benefits from aluminium, and in large quantities, it is harmful. The question then is one of quantity. If the food is not highly acidic or basic on the pH scale, less leaching occurs. Leaching is most likely when the foods being cooked or stored are highly basic, like baking soda, or highly acidic, like tomato sauce, lemon juice, oranges or vinegar. In the case of tomato sauce, 3 to 6 milligrams of aluminium have been found per 100 g servings after being cooked in an aluminium pan. This is approximately 10 per cent of the aluminium the average person consumes in a day.
About 99 per cent of ingested aluminium is excreted by the kidneys, except in patients with renal failure, in which aluminium retention within the body is responsible for “dialysis dementia.” In addition, dialysis patients often suffer from anaemia and a specific form of metabolic bone disease, both due to aluminium retention.
