The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday magazine

  • My comment on Wale Oke misconstrued -Idahosa

    My comment on Wale Oke misconstrued -Idahosa

    The Church of God Mission International (CGMi) has strongly condemned a report published by a national newspaper.

    The report titled ‘Rumbling in PFN: Why Bishop Wale Oke May Not Be Re-elected,’ was published on January 26, 2025.

    The report falsely attributed comments to Archbishop Margaret Idahosa, alleging that she expressed disappointment in the leadership of Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) President, Bishop Wale Oke.

    In a statement issued by CGMi’s Director of Administration, Ekiyor T. H., the church clarified that the claims were categorically untrue and a deliberate misrepresentation of Archbishop Idahosa’s remarks.

    According to CGMi, Archbishop Idahosa had only engaged in a lighthearted conversation with Bishop Wale Oke during Bishop David Oyedepo’s birthday celebration last year. The banter, which revolved around Bishop Oke not being as present in her life as her son, was misconstrued and falsely framed as criticism of his tenure at PFN.

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    “At no point did Archbishop Idahosa make any statement about Bishop Wale Oke’s leadership of PFN, as the report insinuated in its misleading report,” the statement clarified.

    The church reaffirmed its commitment to unity and integrity within the Christian faith and expressed unwavering support for PFN and its leadership, including Bishop Wale Oke, whom it acknowledged for his remarkable contributions to the Fellowship and the work of God.

    CGMi further demanded a retraction and public apology from the news medium, condemning what it described as a pattern of false reporting aimed at defaming the church.

    The statement urged the public to exercise caution in believing unverified reports, emphasizing CGMi’s dedication to serving God with transparency, humility, and love.

  • Dominion City empowers members, proposes N1bn entrepreneur support fund

    Dominion City empowers members, proposes N1bn entrepreneur support fund

    Dominion City Church has reinforced its commitment to equipping members for exponential growth and fostering socio-economic advancement by proposing a N1 billion fund to support entrepreneurs across Nigeria.

    This initiative was among the key highlights of the 2025 Lagos Executive Leadership Retreat for Entrepreneurs & Career Professionals, held at the church’s Lagos headquarters.

    The five-day retreat, led by Dominion City Global President, Dr. David Ogbueli, brought together over 1,000 participants, both onsite and online, to explore strategies for wealth creation, business innovation, career development, and global opportunities, while also strengthening their commitment to Kingdom work.

    At the retreat, participants received training in diverse areas, including: food security via pastoral farming, shifting agriculture, subsistence farming, and commercial agriculture; economic empowerment, discipleship, and spiritual growth; job creation; global migration and expansion; resource mobilization for business funding; and healthcare, among other topics.

    Ogbueli, who announced the proposed N1billion Entrepreneur Support Fund, emphasized that the initiative aims to equip church members with skills, resources, and financial backing to thrive in their businesses and careers.

    He stressed the importance of 10-fold progression, encouraging participants to embrace exponential growth while advancing God’s kingdom.

    “Dominion City is empowering God’s children to be problem-solvers and solution-givers, enabling them to turn societal challenges into opportunities,” he stated.

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    Ogbueli urged churches to actively contribute to structural economic development by equipping members with entrepreneurship skills, ultimately promoting societal prosperity.

    He also challenged individuals to take personal responsibility for their success, emphasizing the necessity of knowledge, hard work, and problem-solving skills over mere reliance on prophecies.

    “You must give God something to work with. God’s blessings rest on action. If you don’t plant the seed, there will be no harvest. No prophecy can replace preparation and the right choices,” he advised.

    Speaking on “Exponential Growth: How to Do Exploits,” Dr. David Ogunshola, founder of Early Founders Lots, highlighted the importance of continuous learning and self-investment.

    “No amount of money is too much for knowledge. The more you invest in yourself, the greater your reward. You cannot expect million-dollar earnings if you have not invested in million-dollar knowledge,” he said.

  • January 27, 2002 Lagos bomb blasts: ‘It was hell of a day!’

    January 27, 2002 Lagos bomb blasts: ‘It was hell of a day!’

    • Survivors recall stories from 22 years back

    It was 22 years since the unfortunate Lagos bomb blasts of January 27, 2002 midweek; as a reminder and commemoration, Gboyega Alaka looked up some of the survivors, who shared their stories of that horrific night.

    It was war! Only those who lived around this axis and experienced it direct would understand. If you stayed far away, you only heard about it. There is a difference. And because it was totally unexpected, we were all in shock and terrified, as each bomb went off.”

    Call it ‘Night of a thousand blasts’, and you may not be wrong; just that you may be undermining the enormity of what happened that January 27, 2002 evening.   For children, teenagers and youths who were yet unborn or too young to clearly recall the incident, a certain story of multiple bomb blasts that turned Lagos metropolis upside down, left people totally disoriented and scores dead, many meeting their death, not from the bomb blasts, but far away from it, while trying to escape, will come across like some stories for the gods.

    For those not familiar with Nigeria’s parlance, stories for the gods means fables or fabricated fancy stories. However, for those who were fully conscious of themselves and their environment that fateful day and lived around Ikeja, Maryland, Shogunle, Mafoluku, Oshodi, Ajao Estate/Airport Road, even as far as Agege in Lagos, it was real horror; one they’d like to forget but can really never forget. It was a day, according to 66-year-old survivor, Semiu, who said he used to fix tyres along Agege Motor Road not too far from Ikeja Cantonment where the explosions occurred, when he learned that building a home or living near a barracks or any military base was dangerous, as against age-long belief that it guaranteed security and rest of mind.

    Then in his forties and agile, Semiu said he had gone to work, even though it was a Sunday, just to make some extra money, when the blasts began.

    “We were really scared and thought it was going to stop; but when it got worse and everywhere scattered, I packed what I could of my work tools and started running towards Agege, like every other person. That day, I learnt that living near barracks, which people always say keeps armed robbers and rogues away, had its danger.”

    Forty-two-year-old Affiong, a hairdresser, who said she was learning the vocation as an apprentice back then, recalls that it was a ‘terrible day… totally unexpected’.

    “We suddenly started hearing huge sounds gboa, gboa; we were like where is this sound coming from? So we ran out, and then we saw smoke in the sky from the direction of Ikeja Cantonment. What is happening? Was Nigeria under attack? Everywhere was scattered, with everybody running everywhere. We all concluded that we had been visited by war. If not war, why would bombs be exploding like that? We started running. That was the only thing we could think of. Anywhere but here (referring to her Shogunle neighbourhood).

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    “With only the skimpy spaghetti top on my back (and a piece of wrapper), we started running towards Gowon Estate. People were crying; some found their way into the nearby Air-Force Base; some, like us, were turned away. When we got to Gowon Estate, it was already late, so we looked for a place to sleep. In the course of our search, four men, seeing that we were four ladies, offered us shelter on the condition that we graced their beds. Of course, we refused, but even the hotel that we found, insisted that four of us couldn’t sleep in one room. We pleaded with them and in the end, we reached a compromise. In any case, going back was not an option, because the news we were hearing was that the whole of Shogunle had been burnt down. Then I thought, is this how I would go back to my village in Akwa-Ibom?

    “When we came in the morning, everywhere was scattered; shoes of people running for dear life were all over the streets. Soon after, we started hearing that a lot of people drowned in the canal at the back. In the mad rush, the plank bridge over the canal that led to Oke-Afa/Ajao Estate collapsed, as hundreds of people attempted to cross it at the same time, causing many of them to drown.

    “Later, we also learnt that it was bomb explosion at the bomb store in the barracks.”

    Affiong’s conspiracy theory

    Affiong however has a conspiracy theory to the whole incident: “You know, the then president, Obasanjo, was supposed to be there (Ikeja Cantoment) at 4 pm; but for some reasons, he got there 2pm, two hours earlier; so for some reasons, those who planned the bomb blast missed him or he beat them at their game. Their plan was that he would still be there at that 5pm when the explosions started and he would be caught in the crossfire.”

    In the case of 67-year-old Bernard Eba, who lives around Abule Igbira in Shogunle, he had just come back from Shomolu Bus Park, where he went to send a parcel to his people in the village, when the whole horror started. He even passed through the cantonment that afternoon, where he took a bottle of palm-wine, and would have waited longer but for a pressing need to go home to get some food, he recalls amidst smiles. Yes, he could smile and laugh over it now, but back then, it was horrific.

    “On getting home, I took a bucket of water to take my bath. It was in the bathroom that I heard the first blast; and then another and another. As I was wondering what it was, my sister came to tell me that something was blasting and falling from the sky. I came out hurriedly, saw the pandemonium; I couldn’t even remember the rice I was cooking. At about that time, another one sounded and the whole place shook with a huge vibration. Even buildings’ roofs were shattered. People were running helter-skelter; I joined them. No time to ask questions. Some people who were trying to enter the Air-Force Base were rebuffed. Meanwhile I continued my journey.  At Ikeja Along bus stop, I saw a lot of cook food overturned; I picked a chicken lap and started chewing along. This was in spite of the fact that I was crying, because I didn’t know the whereabouts of my two children. Don’t forget I was famished. As I got to Agege, we heard the then Lagos State Governor, Tinubu, making a broadcast that people should not panic; that the blasts were from the military cantonment and that they were trying to put things under control.

    “The following day, we went around to see the damages done. Even outside the barracks, some buildings collapsed; so many people died. We saw dead bodies. Even the barracks people ran away. Some of them were among those who drowned in the canal. Children, women… who didn’t know where they were running to. Even my sister told me she boarded a trailer to nowhere.”

    Recalling some of the deaths, Eba said, “I knew up to five people who lost their lives: three children, a woman and a man. The man was a soldier who lost his life the following day. He and his colleagues were going about picking unexploded bombs; he saw one of the bombs and thinking it had exploded, kicked it carelessly. Immediately, it exploded and killed him. He was a corporal.”

    Eba’s son, Raymond Oga, now 42, also recalls the horror of that eventful day.

     “I was 19 and living with my aunty at MOPOL 20 Barracks, a stone’s throw from the Military Cantonment, where the explosions occurred.  I actually thought it was an earthquake because the first blast shook everywhere. Then the second sound boomed, and everywhere shook again. Meanwhile the MOPOL Barracks building were not so strong, so people started running out, fearing the buildings could collapse on them. I also ran out, still wondering what was happening. And then we heard an announcement, ‘Bomb blast, Bomb blast, everybody come out from the blocks.’ Everybody was running helter-skelter. Before we knew it, the barracks was empty. You couldn’t blame them; the blasts were as if they were occurring right inside the barracks.

    “Having watched many war films, I thought it best to stay where I was. Who knows? Those running may even be running into the danger. Besides, I saw a few MOPOL men, who instead of running, brought out chairs into the open, sat down and started drinking while the bombs blasted away. I joined them. They were saying stuffs like, ‘if the world would end today, let us sip our last drink (laughter)’. Later the blasts subsided and women started raising the alarm about missing children. So most of us, men, took up the responsibility of looking for the children. We trekked from the barracks to St. Leo’s Catholic Church; most of them were Catholic devotees, so we thought that would be their first place of refuge. We found two there, while one was still missing. The third child was finally brought home the next morning. To the glory of God, nobody or child was lost.”

    Raymond, however, lost a friend, and family members of another friend.

    To forestall such occurrence in the future, he advised that the authorities “make servicing of the ammunition a regular routine. Get the experts to service them at least once a year.”

    ‘It was war!’

    Sixty-six-year-old Audu Yaya disagreed outright with this reporter who suggested that what transpired that fateful day was ‘like war’. In his words: “It was war! Only those who lived around this axis and experienced it directly would understand. If you stayed far away, you only heard about it. There is a difference. And because it was totally unexpected, we were all in shock and terrified, as each bomb went off.

    “It was a Sunday evening and most of our people had gone for meetings, but I was home. When I heard the first blast, I thought it was a tyre that busted. You can see our house is very close to the main road, so we hear that on a regular basis. But when it continued and even grew stronger and in multiple, I said to myself, this, surely, is not a tyre. I stepped out of the house to see a huge crowd running; the road was filled with people, all running towards Abule-Egba end of Agege Motor Road, trying to get as far away as possible from the blasts. Even some of our Air-Force friends ran to the airport for safety. Some of them said they thought it was an attack and decided to leave the base. They said if it was an attack, the next place would be the Air-Force Base. Even our children, we had no idea where they ran to. The following day, Air-Force officers started ferrying people who had taken sanctuary in their base to the gate for their people to pick them. Still we couldn’t locate our own people. Later, we began to hear that some of them ran as far as Abule-Egba, even Toll Gate in Ogun State. Even the elderly who could not move were carried away, because the blasts were terrible and many didn’t understand at the time that it was not an attack.”

    To the glory of God, Yaya said he lost no family or friends, but said it was a day “no one should ever wish for.”

  • ‘Leadership, for me, is about empowering others’

    ‘Leadership, for me, is about empowering others’

    With a PhD, three master’s degrees in three different fields and a fourth, a bachelor’s degree in Law on the way, youthful Dr Adeyinka Adejugbe is the quintessential scholar. A notable member of ten international and domestic institutions, Adejugbe, who has also authored several articles on a range of industrial issues, labour laws, shares his passion on leadership, workplace equity, Law and Compliance with Gboyega Alaka.

    You are a professional wearing a number of professional hats, what inspired you to pursue a career in Law and Compliance, and how has your journey evolved over the years?

    My decision to pursue a career in law and compliance was inspired by a desire to create systems of fairness, accountability and ethical conduct, especially in a world where businesses and transactions increasingly transcend borders. The global nature of today’s economy creates not only opportunities but also significant risks, ranging from regulatory conflicts to corruption and resource exploitation that can profoundly impact countries. Witnessing how non-compliance and weak regulatory systems can undermine governance, stifle economic growth and harm communities fueled my passion for bridging these gaps. It all began by wanting to help countries and organisations establish frameworks that promote trust, sustainable development and global collaboration.

    My journey began with roles focused on domestic legal systems and regulatory compliance, where I quickly realized the interconnectedness of global markets. As organisations expanded their operations internationally, I was drawn to the complexities of cross-border law and compliance, where decisions in one jurisdiction often ripple into others. Working on issues like anti-money laundering (AML), anti-corruption (e.g., FCPA), and environmental compliance highlighted the critical role these frameworks play not just within organisations but also in the broader socio-economic health of nations. Cross-border trade regulations impact economic stability and the flow of goods, services, and investments.

    In my work, I have worn multiple professional hats—compliance officers, legal advisors, and policy advocate—all of which intersect in addressing the broader impact of compliance on countries. For example: Economic Impact: Assisting businesses in adhering to international trade agreements fosters economic stability and strengthens regional integration, especially in developing countries. Social Impact: Promoting human rights through compliance with international labor laws helps reduce exploitative practices like child labour and forced labour. Environmental Impact: Enforcing compliance with cross-border environmental agreements helps countries combat climate change and pollution, preserving ecosystems for future generations.

    What are you currently focusing on?

    Today, my focus is on ensuring that compliance frameworks not only protect organisations but also benefit the countries in which they operate. For instance: Capacity Building – Collaborating with governments to strengthen regulatory systems, ensuring they effectively oversee cross-border operations and hold violators accountable. Policy Advocacy – Advocating for legal reforms that promote transparency and align with international standards, enabling countries to attract foreign investments while safeguarding their resources. Sustainable Development – Guiding multinational organisations to adopt ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) practices that support the socio-economic development of host countries. By addressing compliance challenges at the intersection of corporate and national interests, I aim to create frameworks that foster ethical business practices while uplifting the communities and economies they impact.

    As the world becomes more interconnected, the ripple effects of cross-border compliance on countries are increasingly evident. For example: A country with weak anti-corruption laws may face economic instability and reduced foreign investment. Nations adhering to robust environmental regulations contribute to global climate goals and avoid becoming dumping grounds for hazardous waste. Regional trade agreements like the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) highlight the need for harmonised compliance systems to boost intra-regional commerce. By staying ahead of trends like digital transformation, global data privacy laws, and ESG priorities, I continually evolve to help both organizations and countries navigate these challenges.

    You have a flare for industrial relations. Your book on ‘Emerging Trends in Job Securities: A Case Study of Nigeria, An Impact of Legal Restriction on Management and Performance in International Business in Nigeria’ is a case in point; alongside other related articles.  What motivates you write?

    Industrial relations explores the relationships between employers, employees, unions, and governments, which are critical to shaping fair workplaces and fostering economic development. My motivation comes from the passion for workplace equity and fairness, the need to explore social and economic impacts of factors of industrial relations, the desire to influence policy and practice, my interest in historical and cultural dynamics and lastly personal experiences. Through my work, I aim to support economic growth, social justice, workers’ empowerment, regional cooperation by promoting ethical practices, protecting workers, and helping nations create systems that balance economic growth with social well-being.

    Your article on women and the workplace is a masterpiece on the reality of a lot of women in the workplace. The UN quoted you, and you have had quite an impressive citation from your peers. What prompted you to write this article?

    A recent research conducted at the time showed that there has been a sudden but gradual change in gender inequality in the workplace. Looking at the trajectories from the 60s to the present date, one will see great improvement in the west, east, and south parts of the country. However, these improvements are slowly manifesting in the northern part despite the constitutional guarantees of equality. Irrespective, we are gradually entering an era where perpetuating systemic barriers to gender equity in the workplace would become a thing of the past. The prompt is that it tells a good story of where we are as a nation, where we are coming from, and where we are going to.

    What do you think about the Nigerian Labour Laws?

    Despite its few strengths, Nigeria’s labour laws face significant challenges that hinder their effectiveness. A primary issue is the outdated nature of the Labour Act, which was enacted in 1974. The act does not adequately address contemporary labour issues such as remote work, gig economy employment, or workplace diversity. Moreover, the act’s limited scope excludes a large category of workers, such as those in executive, administrative, or technical roles, leaving many employees without adequate legal protection. Weak enforcement is another critical challenge. Regulatory agencies like the Ministry of Labour and Employment often lack the resources, capacity, and accountability to enforce labour laws effectively. This weakness undermines the protections afforded to workers and allows employers to evade their responsibilities with minimal repercussions. Improving on social security systems, which is crucial for protecting workers from economic vulnerabilities. Such systems support workers during periods of unemployment, illness, or retirement. Furthermore, industrial relations in Nigeria are frequently characterised by conflict, particularly in the public sector. Strikes and labour disputes often disrupt critical services such as healthcare and education, highlighting the need for more robust mechanisms for proactive conflict resolution.

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    Addressing these challenges requires a comprehensive reform of Nigeria’s labour laws and practices. The Labour Act must be updated to reflect the realities of the modern workforce. Enforcement agencies must be adequately funded and empowered to ensure compliance with labour laws.and they must be transparent. I, however, applaud the National Industrial Court for doing a good job in addressing some of these issues through the juridification of the law.

    Being an industry leader in compliance covering the health sector, financial sector, industrial relations, and businesses generally; how do you approach compliance in regions with inconsistent or evolving regulatory frameworks?

    Compliance in regions with inconsistent or evolving regulations requires a combination of adaptability, strategic planning, proactive engagement, collaborative, and principle-driven approach. By staying informed, leveraging expertise, and prioritising ethical standards. The organisations located in such regions must not only meet regulatory requirements but also build long-term resilience and trust in challenging environments. Thus, it is best to align the organisation’s policies with international standards. These serve as a baseline and ensure ethical practices even when local laws are underdeveloped.

    As an ECOWAS youth ambassador, what will be your advice to Nigerian youth on career pursuit.

    Education remains one of the most powerful tools for personal and professional development. Whether through formal education, vocational training, or self-learning, acquiring knowledge and skills is essential for staying relevant in today’s competitive world. In a country with a large youth population and limited formal employment opportunities, entrepreneurship is a viable path. Identify gaps in the market and develop solutions that address pressing needs in your community. Entrepreneurship not only provides financial independence but also contributes to job creation and economic growth.

    The world is increasingly driven by technology and Nigerian youth must embrace it as a tool for growth. Digital skills are no longer optional—they are essential for accessing global opportunities. Learn to use technology for problem-solving, entrepreneurship, and personal branding.

    I see you have evolved and redefined yourself over the years; you have mastered roles and headed various departments such as the human resources, compliance, enterprise risk, corporate services department without losing sight of your law practice. How do you do all this in one breath?

    Balancing multiple professional roles across human resources, compliance, enterprise risk, corporate services, and maintaining an active law practice is both a challenge and a privilege. It demands strategic planning, adaptability, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. For me, these roles are not separate silos but interconnected functions that, when approached holistically, create a synergy that enhances organisational success.

    My journey began with a solid foundation in law, which equipped me with critical analytical, problem-solving, and negotiation skills. These skills proved invaluable across the diverse roles I have undertaken. Law, at its core, is about understanding systems and creating structures for fairness and accountability—principles that resonate deeply in human resources, compliance, and risk management.

    Continuous learning has also been pivotal. Staying updated on industry trends in areas like enterprise risk, compliance regulations, and corporate governance enables me to adapt to evolving challenges. For example, understanding emerging compliance technologies or global labour laws allows me to provide informed leadership across departments.

    The roles I manage are deeply interconnected. Compliance and risk management often intersect, particularly in ensuring adherence to workplace policies and regulatory requirements. Human resources plays a crucial role in enforcing these policies, while corporate services support the operational frameworks that make compliance possible. Recognising these overlaps allows me to approach these roles as complementary rather than separate, ensuring efficiency and cohesion. At the heart of this integration is my legal practice. Legal expertise informs my decisions across all areas, whether it’s interpreting labour laws for HR, mitigating risks through compliance strategies, or drafting contracts for corporate services. This integration ensures that my work is grounded in ethical principles and legal precision.

    While I manage multiple departments, my law practice remains at the core of my professional identity. It serves as a unifying thread, influencing decisions across human resources, compliance, risk management, and corporate services. For instance, interpreting labour laws helps shape HR policies, while understanding regulatory frameworks informs risk mitigation strategies. My legal practice also enhances my ability to handle cross-departmental challenges. For example, navigating compliance issues often requires input from HR, risk, and corporate teams. My involvement in all these areas enables me to address these challenges comprehensively and effectively.

    Balancing diverse roles demands resilience. I have learned to thrive under pressure by breaking complex tasks into manageable parts and maintaining a solutions-oriented mindset. This resilience is bolstered by a clear sense of purpose: knowing that my work contributes to organisational success, employee well-being, and legal integrity keeps me motivated and focused. Purpose-driven leadership also plays a key role in my ability to manage these responsibilities. I am deeply passionate about creating systems that promote fairness, accountability, and ethical conduct. This passion drives me to excel in each role, ensuring that I approach my work with dedication and integrity. My legal expertise serves as the foundation, while my passion for ethical leadership fuels my commitment to making a meaningful impact across all areas of my professional life. In this interconnected journey, every role I undertake enriches the others, creating a dynamic and fulfilling career.

    You currently have a Ph.D, three masters from different fields with a fourth in the way, a bachelor of law degree, you are a notable member of ten internationally, regional and domestic institutions. You hold group head positions in organisations here and abroad while still running your private practice and consultancy firm. How have you been able to achieve all these in a short period?

    Achieving multiple academic qualifications, memberships in international institutions, and holding leadership positions both locally and internationally has been a journey of focus, discipline, and strategic prioritisation. While it may seem like a lot to accomplish in a short time, it has been the result of a deliberate approach to personal development, professional growth, and a clear sense of purpose. I have always believed in the power of lifelong learning and interdisciplinary knowledge. Pursuing degrees in varied fields has not only expanded my skill set but has also allowed me to integrate knowledge across domains to solve complex issues. Balancing academic, professional, and personal responsibilities requires meticulous planning. I adopt a structured approach to managing my time by setting clear priorities and allocating dedicated hours to academic pursuits, professional obligations, and personal development. Professionally, I focus on roles that align with my expertise, ensuring that my work and studies complement each other. Holding group head positions in organisations locally and internationally has been a natural extension of my desire to lead and contribute meaningfully to organisations and society. Leadership, for me, is about empowering others, fostering innovation, and driving change. I have embraced leadership not as an additional burden but as a means of creating impact, which keeps me motivated and focused. Achieving all of this would not have been possible without strong personal and professional support systems. I have been fortunate to work with mentors, colleagues, and teams who share my vision and values.

  • Selasi’s  TOP TEN

    Selasi’s  TOP TEN

    Trayc Selasi is a British-Ghanaian singer and songwriter. She tells OLAITAN GANIU her favourite things.

    Favorite wrist watch

    I am not a fan of the wristwatch. I don’t wear one. But if I had to choose, it would be a Hugo Boss watch because my partner’s got one and it’s quite nice.

    Favorite car

    The Mercedes G-wagon is my favourite car

    Favorite designer

    I’m not a designer girl. I like anything nice, but if I had to choose one, it would be Ghanaian designers. They are amazing and I can’t wait to work with them one day.

    Favorite Perfume

    I don’t have a favourite perfume, but I like my good-smelling Oud either from Dubai, Saudi Arabia or wherever.

    Favorite travel destination

    I love going to so many different places and seeing so many different cultures, but my ultimate favourite is Ghana. I love being back home. You know, being back home is just the ultimate.

    Favorite song

    My favourite song is ‘Soft Life’ by Seyi Shay and Banji Mak because I co-produced and co-wrote that song.

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    Favorite book

    My favorite book is The Alchemist. I love reading that book. I would even be going back to read that book again for like the fourth or fifth time.

    Favorite actor/artist

    My favourite actor or artist? One I can think of right now, actor-wise, is Taraji P. Henson. She’s absolutely an amazing actor. For artists, I think who I love right now is Tems. She’s my favourite right now.

    Favorite accessories

    I love some good jewelry. I love my rings. I love some flower rings and African-shaped rings, triangle rings.

    Favorite Food

    Favourite food is beans and plantains. Yeah. If it’s not beans and plantain, then it’s Banku with red pepper sauce with fish and eggs. Yes, I’m a Ghanaian, and we love eggs.

  • Climate change: ‘Why we’re empowering young champions’

    Climate change: ‘Why we’re empowering young champions’

    In Nigeria, more than 25 million people including millions of children face food insecurity, displacement, and health risks due to environmental degradation. The rising temperatures, increased flooding, prolonged droughts and many more effects of climate change are pushing millions of families into hardship. In this chat with OLAITAN GANIU, the Country Director for SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria, Eghosa Erhumwunse, sounds the alarm on this dangerous shift during the launching of its Eco Champions project in Lagos.

    Youth inclusion is paramount in combating climate crisis

    Young people need to take action to protect their communities. As we all know climate change is no longer a new topic and addressing climate change from a youth perspective means that young people need to take the bull by the horns by coming up with initiatives that they can build on to reverse these changes we are observing in our climate, which also snowball to having situations like flooding and all the like. So, I think it’s a particular time of interest where you see young people leading the way, and taking that decision to make efforts to encourage other youth to address these climate issues that are now becoming a crisis.

    Why it’s crucial to safeguard our planet for generations to come.

    I think as the saying goes, charity begins at home. There is no better place to reverse every challenge we face as a people, than doing it from home. The home is the right place because the family is the smallest unit of society. It is the family that makes up the society.

    So the best place to target is the family and this also supports our programming initiative in Nigeria. We tackle family issues from a family perspective. We develop families so that they can take care of their children and build a better future for their families. So, when it comes to climate issues, it’s our lack of knowledge and our lack of doing what is right that actually snowballed to this global warming and all the issues we are facing today.

    So we can walk it back and begin to see how to reclaim those gains back to reality.

    Empowering young minds

    At the heart of Eco Champions is the active involvement of young people, especially girls and women, leading climate solutions. Women and girls bear a disproportionate burden of climate-related challenges, yet they remain underrepresented in decision-making. This initiative will ensure their inclusion in climate actions, recognizing their critical role in fostering sustainable development and community resilience. Through capacity-building workshops, public campaigns, and stakeholder engagements, Eco Champions will provide young activists with the tools and platforms to amplify their voices and drive tangible impact. Community collaborations will further promote climate education, awareness, and behavioral change.

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    The Eco Champions project is a testament to our commitment to fostering a sustainable future for Nigeria’s children and young community. We believe in the importance of equipping young people with the tools to lead climate action, not only to address the immediate impacts of climate change but also to build a resilient future for generations to come.

    The scope of the Eco Champions project

    In response climate change crisis SOS Children’s Villages Nigeria flagged off the Eco Champions Project, a global flagship program designed to empower young people and local communities to lead climate action. Nigeria is one of six countries within the SOS Children’s Villages Federation implementing this transformative initiative, placing us at the forefront of grassroots climate resilience and sustainable development. Over the next eighteen months, this initiative will drive systemic change through renewable energy adoption, green initiatives, environmental sanitation campaigns, youth-led climate advocacy and awareness, and strategic partnerships with government and private sector stakeholders to implement long-term climate solutions.

    Launching the project with four young champs

    Our expectation is for them to use the fund to kick-start their initiative. These are young people with excellent and stable minds who are eager to support their community. We at the SOS Children’s Village only gave them a little token of 2.88 million naira each. The four beneficiaries include Hannah Omokhaye, Shukurat Akinola, Benita Obot and Ayodele Joshua. These are the first set of champions but we are building on increasing this number over time. Climate change topic has become a cut-crossing topic in our programming in SOS Children’s Villages in Nigeria, so it’s not going to be the first and it’s not going to be the last, it’s a continuum, so to speak.

    Calling for partnerships

    With the official launch of Eco Champions, we call on the government, Federal and Local agencies, private sector partners, and civil society organizations, to join hands in supporting the Eco Champions, we all, must take bold, systematic action towards climate change. This is not just a campaign, it is a movement to secure a healthier, inclusive and more resilient future for Nigeria’s children and youths.

  • Eliminating bottlenecks in acquiring driver’s license

    Eliminating bottlenecks in acquiring driver’s license

    Two incidents I witnessed recently, just within the last two weeks, got me on the road to wondering what it takes to obtain a new or renewed driver’s license. I have heard people complain of their driver’s license having expired but to have the audacity to drive on the road without one is something baffling.

    On my way to the Lagos State University Campus Ojo, from the Egbeda-Isheri Idimu Road, not too far away from the Idimu Police Station, officials of the Federal Road Safety Commission [FRSC] flagged me down. They demanded my driver’s license and other vehicle particulars which I obliged them.

    However, parked along with my vehicle were about seven other vehicles. Most of the drivers and occupants of those vehicles were outside their vehicles appealing to the FRSC officials to allow them to go, inventing various excuses of why their vehicle particulars were not in order or complete.

    From what I gathered, three of the drivers had no driver’s license while another three had expired driver’s licenses. The 7th driver, a female, did not put on her seat belt.  One pathetic case that caught my full attention was the driver who was appealing that he should be let off the hook because he had a sick man in his car he was ferrying to the Igando General Hospital.

    To my surprise, the next day, I was driving to Ikeja from the Local Airport through the Bank Anthony Way. Just before the Ayinke gate of the Lagos Teaching Hospital, I sighted about six FRSC officers with over ten vehicles parked. Though I was not stopped by them like yesterday, I decided to stop to get a grasp of what was going on.

    With a warm smile on my face, I approached the most youthful officer among them and introduced myself. After assuring him that our discussion was going to be confidential, he told me that the drivers of six of the vehicles parked were driving without any license or expired license. Why? I wondered. Why is it becoming rampant? Is it that it is getting more difficult to obtain or renew a driver’s license?

    Driving without a license is forbidden and punishable by law in Nigeria. The  (FRSC) issues driving licenses, which are official documents that provide people the authority to drive. Everyone in Nigeria who is 18 years and above is eligible to get a driving license but other requirements must be fulfilled in the country before a driver’s license may be granted besides age.

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     It is important to remember that applying for and receiving a driver’s license is not free of charge; depending on the kind, the validity period is either three or five years.

    This 2025, in order to obtain a driving license in Nigeria, you must present the following documents; failure to do so is tantamount to not getting issued a driving license, and the documents are listed: Driving school certificate, Learner’s Permit, VIO Test certificate, Birth certificate/Age declaration, Evidence of driver’s permit payment (bank teller or print out), National Identification Number (NIN).

    The processes you need to undertake in order to obtain a new driving license in Nigeria this 2025 are as follows: Take driving lessons at a recognized school in Nigeria, When your driving school programme is complete, the school will then schedule you for a driving exam with the Vehicle Inspection Service (VIS), a certificate of proficiency will be issued to you by the VIS if you pass the driving exam.

    The next step is to fill out an application for a driver’s license at the Drivers Licensing Centre (DLC) or apply online at the FRSC driver’s license website, https://www.nigeriadriverslicence.org. Once that is done, you must pay the license fee at the bank or online, after your payment has been confirmed, if you applied for your driver’s license online, you must print your acknowledgement slip.

    Submit your application form or slip for endorsement to the DLC’s VIO and Board of Internal Revenue (BIR) Officer. Proceed to the DLC’s FRSC Officer to have your biometrics captured. Following that, you can get a temporary driver’s license that will be valid for 30 days. You must pick up your original driver’s license at the BIR Office after 30 days. Upon the preparation of your original driver’s license, you will receive a text message once it is ready.

    At the Driver’s License Centre (DLC), the application for a driving license in Nigeria can be completed offline or online. In this form, you must fill out your bio-information and indicate how many years you want your driver’s license. This form is simple to obtain, but you must carefully complete it to avoid mistakes and entering incorrect information.

    Make sure you carefully read the form again after filling it out to make sure you entered the correct information. The list of items you need to fill out on your driving license application is as follows: Title: (Mr/Mrs/Miss), Surname, First Name, Other Name, Sex: Male/Female, Date Of Birth (DD/MM/YY), Place Of Birth (City/Town), Marital Status, Nationality, Address Information (House/Flat/Plot Number), Street, State Of Origin, Local Government Of Origin, Phone Number(s), Occupation, Mother’s Maiden Name, Height, Blood Group, Next Of Kin, Phone Number Of Next Of Kin, Nationality Of Next Of Kin, Years Of Application (Either three years or five years).

    How to renew your driving licence

    Depending on how many years you requested, the Nigerian driver’s license expires after three or five years. The methods listed will show you how to renew your driver’s license if it has already expired: Visit the FRSC’s official website for driver’s licenses in Nigeria at https://www.nigeriadriverslicence.org/.

    To renew your driver’s license in Nigeria today, click “DL Application” and choose that option from the drop-down menu.

    Another alternative to obtain a new driving license or to renew an expired one is to just visit a registered driving school and explain what you want.

    Be wary of quacks at the Local Government offices. Please desist from driving without a license. Good luck.

    Cost of driving licence

    The following amounts are the current application fees for new driver’s licenses in Nigeria as of this year 2025: Depending on the driving school you choose, a Certificate of Driving School may cost up to N8,000, cost of the VIO test certificate is roughly N1,000, cost of eye test certificate is N500.

    According to FRSC Nigeria, the average cost of a driver’s license in Nigeria this 2025 is N25,000 for a three-year license or N50,000 for a five-year license. It used to be N6,350 and N10,450 for three and five years, respectively but it has steadily increased over time.

  • PMI drives digital transformation at Tech Revolution Africa 2025

    PMI drives digital transformation at Tech Revolution Africa 2025

    A US-based Project Management Institute (PMI), the leading authority in project management, showcased industry-leading certifications and offerings, tailored for technology professionals, entrepreneurs, ecosystem builders, and innovators at the Tech Revolution Africa Conference 2025.

    PMI’s participation at the event reflects its focus on connecting with a diverse audience critical to Africa’s technological growth.

    Addressing reporters at the just concluded ‘Tech Revolution Africa Conference 2025,’ George Asamani, Managing Director, Sub-Sahara Africa, PMI noted that effective project management is critical to ensuring success as digital transformation reshapes industries across the continent.

    According to him, PMI’s certifications, like the Project Management Professional (PMP), are globally recognized as the gold standard for project leaders, “equipping them with the tools and methodologies needed to drive innovation and deliver results. The need for structured project execution, stakeholder management, and strategic planning is growing rapidly, especially as organisations navigate complex technological shifts”.

    “PMI helps address these challenges by fostering a workforce capable of managing projects in an agile, cost-effective, and scalable manner. Digital transformation initiatives require a combination of strategic oversight and precise execution, making certified professionals uniquely equipped to lead in this space”.

    “Technological innovation is accelerating across Africa, creating both opportunities and challenges. At PMI, we are dedicated to empowering the tech ecosystem with the skills and certifications to manage this complexity, deliver successful projects, and shape a brighter future,” said the Managing Director, Sub-Saharan Africa, PMI.

    At the event, PMI  showcased its globally recognized certifications, such as the PMP, Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM), as well as its dynamic Membership benefits and PMI Infinity 2.0, an AI-powered project management coach designed to deepen expertise, master complex topics, and elevate execution to drive project success.

    Powered by GPT-4o (omni), PMI Infinity 2.0 is optimised for quicker and more accurate results with an expanded knowledge base from firms like Cognilytica, Green Project Management & Centre for Creative Leadership. With new document generation capabilities and custom templates, PMI Infinity™ users can benefit from enhanced efficiency, productivity, and optimised workflows. Users can now input project details to create and refine essential documents for project-based work, such as project charter documents.

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    Speaking further, George Asamani emphasized that Studies show certified project managers deliver projects more successfully, improving productivity and reducing costly delays adding that according to the “PMI’s Earning Power: Project Management Salary Survey, project managers with PMP certification earn higher median salaries than those without PMP certification, 33% higher on average across the 21 countries surveyed. PMP-certified project professionals in Nigeria demonstrated an even greater lift, reporting an increase of 60% in median salary compared to their non-certified peers”.

    “PMI membership further enhances this advantage by providing unparalleled opportunities for learning, collaboration, and professional growth. Members gain access to global thought leadership, advanced tools, and exclusive insights to tackle the complexities of the digital age. With mentorship opportunities, networking events, and a supportive global community, PMI membership empowers tech professionals to transform challenges into opportunities and advance their careers”, said the Mr. Asamani.

    “Project professionals turn to PMI for cutting-edge resources and methodologies to drive transformation in their careers, organisations, and industries. Through our recent partnership with Agile Alliance and  Cognilytica’s acquisition we are expanding access to Agile resources while pioneering the integration of AI into project management. These advancements will empower professionals to lead confidently and navigate the complexities of AI-driven transformation on a global scale,” adds Asamani.

    “This strategic partnership between PMI and Tech Revolution Africa further strengthens the vibrant tech ecosystem, expanding the frontiers for more project professionals amongst innovators and the brightest talents you can find in Africa,” said David Ogebe, co-founder of Tech Revolution Africa.

  • Nickelodeon rallies viewers for fun, family entertainment in February

    Nickelodeon rallies viewers for fun, family entertainment in February

    Nickelodeon is turning up the fun with a jam-packed lineup guaranteed to entertain the entire family in February.

    Viewers are to get ready for a thrilling mix of brand-new episodes, exciting stunts, and must-watch premieres that will have everyone glued to their screens.

    From epic superhero showdowns to hilarious underwater antics, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Viewers are to grab the popcorn, round up the family, and get set for a month full of laughter, action, and unforgettable moments in DStv Channel 305 and GOtv Channel 87.

    According to the sneak peek review of the Transformers EarthSpark, viewers are to get ready for an action-packed adventure as a new generation of Transformers—Earth’s first-born robots—team up with the humans who welcome them, proving that family goes beyond just blood. In season three, the stakes are higher than ever when a massive dome traps the Decepticons in the town of Witwicky. But can it hold them for long?

    In Henry Danger, Nickelodeon’s favourite superheroes are back! Watch Henry Danger and Danger Force collide in an action-packed stunt marathon guaranteed to keep you on the edge of your seat, just as SpongeBob SquarePants’ world’s most lovable sea sponge is back with brand-new ‘misadventures’! From flipping Krabby Patties to tackling driving school, SpongeBob is ready for some underwater mayhem.

    Also, the Smurfs are back and Smurfier than ever! Join our beloved blue characters as they go on all new adventures that will push the charm, absurdity, and humour of the original series to even greater heights!

    Life equally gets wild when human girl Clawdeen discovers Monster High, a school where jaw-dropping surprises lurk around every corner, and anything is possible, literally!

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    Henry Hart’s life as a hero in Dystopia gets turned upside down when Missy Martin, an obsessed superfan, enters the picture. Can he handle the fame and the unexpected twist that awaits?

    Packed with laughter, chills, and edge-of-your-seat thrills, this is one movie you simply can’t miss!

    The special stunt brings back-to-back episodes of The Fairly OddParents filled with wishes gone wrong and hilarious adventures, including special episodes of The Fairly OddParents Wishology.

    Tune in every weekday to jump into the magical, zany world of Timmy Turner and his fairy godparents every weekday from Monday, 13 January, to Friday, 14 February, at 18:30 WAT on NickToons DStv Channel 308 and GOtv Channel 86.

    Viewers can also join the teenage Patrick as he hosts his own hilariously bizarre talk show filled with wacky antics and family fun while Leo, Raph, Donnie, and Mikey are back with even more epic action! Join them as they rise from the sewers to tackle everything from rogue Mechazoids to a citywide storm! With April O’Neil by their side, these turtles bring humour, heart, and serious ninja skills to the streets of NYC.

    Adventure Bay’s getting a new airport, and the launch does not go without a hitch. It is up to the Paw Patrol to make sure everything runs smoothly. Blaze and the Monster Machines follows the animated adventures of Blaze, the world’s greatest monster truck, and his best pal and driver, AJ, as they race through the exciting world of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math!

  • JMG donates foodstuff to orphanages

    JMG donates foodstuff to orphanages

    JMG Limited, a leading provider of electro-mechanical solutions in Nigeria, recently extended its act of kindness to children in orphanages in Lagos by donating food items and supplies to them as part of its corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiative.

    The foremost company with efficient and reliable solutions for homes and businesses demonstrated that giving back to its host communities is an integral part of its operations with the donations to the Bales of Mercy Orphanage, Compassionate Orphanage, and Missionaries of Charity/Contemplative Gift of Mercy Home, in Lagos, to bring comfort and joy to the children.

    Presenting the gifts to the management of the Orphanage Homes, the Head of Marketing, JMG Limited, Oluwatomi Faniran, said the company is committed to making meaningful differences in the lives of those who need it most, driven by compassion, empathy, and a vision of a brighter future for all.

    She affirmed that the company through its kindness has deemed it necessary to make a good impact on the lives of the incredible children in those homes, as they need to be catered for like other kids in the society.

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    According to her, while the donations were material, the experience offered something far deeper. It was a connection with the children and a profound reminder of their resilience and boundless potential.

    “It was humbling to see the smiles on their faces, to hear their laughter, and to witness the strength of their spirits despite the challenges they face daily. Their courage inspired us and reminded us of the importance of standing together as a community to nurture and uplift the most vulnerable among us,” she stated.

    Mrs. Faniran further asserted that JMG Limited recognises that every act of kindness, no matter how small, has the potential to create ripples of hope that can turn into waves of change, especially when there is compassion and care for others.

    The company’s intent was not just about providing immediate support, but investing in the future of the children, creating a brighter tomorrow for them, as they represent a world of untapped potential, creativity, and possibility.

    JMG Limited, in its act of kindness, is poised to continually enhance the well-being of people in its scope of operation, as it envisions a future where every child feels seen, valued, and loved, and urges individuals, organisations, and communities to contribute to the lives of the underprivileged in the society.