The Nation Newspaper

Category: Sunday Interview

  • Mercy Eke: My reality show is like The Kardashians

    Mercy Eke: My reality show is like The Kardashians

    Mercy Eke won the 2019 edition of Big Brother Nigeria. She is also a television personality, model, actress and more. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she goes down memory lane to talk about her memories of the show, her relationship with Nengi, turning point in her career, mentoring young people as well as being newly appointed as ambassador of Payporte.

    Let’s talk about life after Big Brother, any regrets?

    I once said that if I should take anything back, what I would do differently in the house, is that I am going to be myself because I was myself throughout the show. Maybe, this time around, I would play the game as a single girl.

    Did you regret falling in love in the house?

    No! Love is a beautiful thing. I don’t think I regret falling in love with my ex-boyfriend. It was a beautiful experience, I enjoyed it while it lasted but life has to continue.

    Let’s talk about COVID-19 lockdown last year. How did you spend your time?

    Yes, last year it was really, really bad with COVID. I was indoors but the brands that I already signed with were there, I couldn’t tell them there was COVID. So, I created content in the comfort of my home and then had to put it out there. Of course, money had been paid and you have to work.

    So, at that time, I was at home working with myself, creating good content and working for brands. They couldn’t do anything outside apart from us and we were on the social media. That was basically it.

    We couldn’t travel or do the usual things. Everyone was just home and creating content for the existing brands came with lots of creativity.

    You obviously wanted to leave the house and take advantage of the mileage that you had as well as remain in stardom. You have had that, yet you talked about worst moments, what could this be?

    It varies. Worst times could come in different ways, it could be in terms of health, in form of family crisis, relationship crisis, mental crisis and a lot of other things. I have had some of this issues and it is not something that I want to put out there. It is something that we all face at some point in our lives. Most times, money is not everything. Money may not guarantee happiness. Some people may have all this things and still lack that inner peace of mind. So, when I say that I have been through it, I am coming from that point of view and talking about personal struggles that I have been through.

    Tell us about your relationship with Nengi. She is also a brand Ambassador of Payporte that just signed you on. How do you intend to manage this?

    That we are not friends is not true. We are actually having a photo shoot in Paris together. So, if we are not cool, there wouldn’t be such an arrangement. Most times, it is the social media that is overdoing things.

    Let’s talk about the good times, some of the memorable moments in Big Brother?

    I think that the good times is when I won, it was awesome. Also the relationships that I had in the house have been very fulfilling and memorable. I met some amazing people that till today it has grown to something else, something deep likes a deep connection, a deep relationship with these housemates. Of course, these are things that don’t make it to the social media. It is just us doing things, supporting each other and knowing that we are here; we went to this thing and learnt so much. And of us have a number of things in common and when you listen to our stories, we did well and wanted to better our lives. We went there and didn’t just come for the fame. Of course, some came just for the fame but we made sure that we grew from what we used to be to a better version of us.

    Mercy Eke
    Mercy Eke

    You are multi -talented, actress, model and more. What drives the things that you do?

    What drives me is the hunger for success, the desire to make it. To be able to help my family, help the people around me. As well as to be independent.

    Tell us about your experience mentoring young people?

    Yes, I do that. Even now, I just launched my Miss Eke Foundation in Lagos that was last week. For this project, I will be giving out N5million to young people, especially young entrepreneurs whether you have a business or not. Some have the idea but do not have the capital to drive it. So, I am bringing out this five million naira to help the young girls in my own little way. We have a form for our targets and there is a Hastag already for this. Most of them have applied and we have received over on thousand entries.

    Tell us about life as Ambassador

    I am the newest brand Ambassador to Payporte. It is not about how many deals that you have, it is about longevity. It is about staying in the game. It is about having these brands. There is no brand that has said that Mercy we have issues with you. I see a lot of people online fallout with the brands that they work with and bring this to social media.

    I can beat my chest and say that there is no brand that I have worked with that I have ever fallen out with. That means that I know what I am doing. I carry the brands that I work with like my own brand. That is why I am very visible. All the brands that I am working with since I got out of the house; I am still working with them. I believe that

    Payporte must have seen that to have still come. We have been on this since 2019. So, my brand is what I say it is. A reputable brand and that is what it is.

    Did you reject any endorsement?

    Yes, I have rejected a few brands, some of them signed but they didn’t come to terms with my conditions.  It just didn’t work with me. I like brands that don’t like conflict.  I like to work with all the ambassadors and we are there, they are paying us all this millions of naira to carry the brands to the next level. We have to bring value to these brands. But some of this brands trade off with conflict and they want to use the ambassadors to gain something.  I don’t work with such brands.  I like it when I am working with you and the atmosphere is calm. I can’t come for a shoot and we are sweating and at the  end of the day, the whole thing would be in a mess. I want my peace and I am still growing my brand. I wouldn’t want a situation where in future a brand would say she is difficult to work with. So, if I see that from the onset, before we announce it that would be a no for me. I usually ask who is on board, are we going to work as a family and all that. If it’s fine, then I am okay. This latest endorsement is good, the people there are cool.

    What are the things that you look out for?

    I look out for shared values. In addition, this is a fashion brand and it is something that I am passionate about too. I first went to their page and I found that there has been a  great growth. I love what they sell, I buy from them even when they don’t  know. I can relate with them and I like to work with brands that I can relate with. They have beautiful outfits, something that anybody can afford. And it is affordable for every young person.

    In addition, I am also working on something similar, a fashion brand. So, I would say that it is in line with what I want to do. He sees my vision and I also relate to his vision.  I am therefore looking at a bigger picture, going forward to the next level. In a nutshell, I like bringing value to the brands I represent or work with.

    What are the other things that occupy your time?

    I am shooting my reality Show; this is actually the Season two. It is going to go worldwide and it is airing on African Magic.  It is my personal show, The Mercy Eke Show. It’s all about my lifestyle, how I live, the brands I work with and what my fans should expect next. It is a reality show that covers everything about my life. It is centred around me, my family and whatever I do. Something like keeping up with the Kardashians.

    What inspired you to do this?

    So many things.  Well, I just can’t pinpoint a particular thing.

    Tell us about your romantic side?

    Right now, I would say that I am single but not searching.

    Let’s talk about early life. What was the experience like growing up?

    I was born and bred in Owerri. My parents live there, it was interesting growing up with my mum and sisters. I schooled in Owerri from primary to the University.  I read Psychology at MSUT.

    Tell us about the things that you like to wear?

    My style is being comfortable in whatever you wear. It doesn’t matter how much you buy it. Just like what I am wearing now. It’s Payporte and I can say that I look classy and very comfortable in it. I will wear it so far it looks good and feel myself wearing it. That is what fashion is for me, being sexy in your outlook.

    What about Nigerian designers.  How do you rate them?

    They are great. I wear a lot of Nigerian brands when I go to events. I know that they are doing very well. A lot of them are very creative.  In fact, they amaze me sometimes with their collections.

  • Sarah Kuponiyi: There were days I felt like running away

    Sarah Kuponiyi: There were days I felt like running away

    Sarah Kuponiyi is a 2019 nominee for 120 under 40 New Generation of Family Planning Leaders, recipient of Sustainable Solutions Africa 30 under 30 2019 and Cohort 15 Young African Leaders Initiative (YALI) emerging Leaders Program West Africa. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talked about her passion for vulnerable young girls, helping to reduce menstrual poverty hygiene in rural communities and more.

     

    Did your childhood prepare you in any way for what you do now?

    No, I don’t think my childhood prepared me in any way for what I do now but I can say its part of what inspired me. Growing up was awesome. I had a lovely family, hardworking and sacrificial parents. Life itself was not so smooth, not so rough; it was a beautiful as well as hard journey. Looking back now, as an adolescent I was a lone ranger. I hardly had friends; there were issues around self-identification and family challenges. I had no one to share with, my parents were not available for those kinds of talks and I always bottled them in. I was at the receiving end of my parent’s emotional breakdown when they separated. There were days I felt like running away, if there were safe spaces then that I could trust and go to.

    What inspired you to start   this initiative?

    What I went through growing up like I explained earlier inspired me to start A Well-Informed Adolescent (AWA) Initiative, which started as a community based project in 2018 to provide adolescents in rural communities an inspiration to live beyond their present definition, to aim high and think big and not let their background define them. Like the name of the organization, I am eager to have adolescents, who are well-Informed about the stage of life they are in, help them answer all the burning existential questions they have about their life, their overall health, their career.

    We achieved this through use of Multisectoral programs that link health to education, recreational activities, skills acquisition, youth club activities, school-based campaign, safe space services, advocacy and peer health education.

    You recently launched Alora reusable pad, what’s the inspiration behind it?

    As a younger girl who stayed with her father, I could not afford to buy sanitary pads for myself due to how pads were unaffordable for someone like me, neither was I able to ask him for such due to culture of shyness and silence. Likewise, working on school health outreaches made me realised this situation has not changed and the story is what cut across all region of the country; Nigeria is one of the countries that place a heavy tax on menstrual products. Without access to proper menstrual products, many girls miss classes and older women are unable to attend work .A pack of sanitary pads cost an average of $1.30, even as an estimated 44% of Nigeria’s population (87 Million people) lives in extreme poverty earning less than $1.90 per day, women and girls may delay urination and defecation but it is not possible to stop menstrual flow.

    Alora Reusable Pads are made for every woman and girl. It is affordable, easy to use, comfortable and available in three sizes with varying thickness to fit every woman at all times.

    What has been the reception since you introduced it?

    The reception has been awesome. We have received considerable acceptance in the development space and government parastatals because it is a sustainable way of solving period poverty but for individuals we realized there is need to do more awareness creation on reusable pads in Nigeria, it is still a new niche and awareness about this would help influence, mind shift and behavioral change which help increase acceptance. Some of the achievements are that our Alora Pads has been purchased by Cross River State Ministry of Women Affairs, Ekiti State Governor’s wife Her Excellency Erelu Bisi Fayemi for her Keep Girls in School Project for world menstrual hygiene day 2021 and in Adamawa  KPANG SURRI Foundation purchased Alora pads to commemorate World Menstrual Hygiene Day. As well as Gender and Development Actions (GADA).

    One other positive fallout is that Alora Reusable Pads was invited by the Federal Ministry of Women Affairs Abuja, by Dame Pauline Tallen in commemorating World Menstrual Hygiene Day 2021 at the Ministry Complex in Abuja. There we witnessed the Official presentation of Alora Reusable pads to United Nation Population Funds (UNFPA) Calabar Sub office.

    You are a certified adolescent sexual health professional, founder of an inspiring organisation, and volunteer for several International organisations, how do you manage to combine all this?

    To be honest, it is not easy. The reward of hard work is more work but because all I do is what I am passionate about, I enjoy it and I give it my best. So, I prioritise my schedules and deliverables, I have calendars and to do list. I set reminders, I delegate where necessary.

    What are some of the challenges of your work?

    My life is all about work with little or no time for other things of life. But lately, I am making conscious efforts to live a balance life.

    Some of the challenges involve handling   Gender based violence prevention at the grassroots or community. Here you have to contend with community gate keepers and community strong holds (laughs) let me not go there. For young people, it is just a matter of them trusting you enough and the work becomes easier.

    Let’s talk about the women who inspire you?

    I have many women that I look up to. The list includes

    Dr. Yolanda N, George-David also known as auntlanda, I met her while I was still in secondary school through a radio program tag “Sharing Life Issues”. She inspired me to do better because despite her own life issues that she could use as a legit excuse to just remain in her corner yet she leaves everything to give her all to total strangers. I also admire Mrs. Emilia Eyo-Effa; I met her while working at my first NGO work ever. She was the Gender Specialist, currently now works with USAID, seeing her transition from jobs to jobs gives me hope that I can achieve my career dreams in the development sector, all I need to do is work hard and be consistent.

    I also admire Michelle Obama a lot. Reading her book titled “Becoming” gave me a glimpse to her life, her roots, how she came of age, her family, her life as the first lady. Reading about her triumph and disappointment made me realised that I am a work in progress. I have not arrived or gotten to my final destination and that in every  of my life phase I keep working, keep learning, keep living and keep becoming the better version of myself always.

  • ADENIKE AKINYEMI: How I got my first breakthrough

    ADENIKE AKINYEMI: How I got my first breakthrough

    The history of event industry in Nigeria began with individuals who had a strong passion for just catering and planning events. It became a path many others towed. But overtime, a few others began to look in other directions and eventually carved a niche in event decorations. Adenike Akinyemi. Interestingly hit her breakthrough in the industry after making a superlicious event design for the Lagos State Government. In this interview with Samson Oti, she talked about her passion for the sector, creativity and the turning point for her.

    She is the beautiful and youthful Chief Executive Officer of Kolony Events and Rentals. She is a specialist in event decorations. She speaks on how the brand evolved about a decade ago and lessons that made her a success story.

    Explaining how it all began, Akinyemi says she had always had an enterprising spirit far back as when she was in school, making cakes to the delight of everyone who wanted a taste of what she had to offer.

    “After graduating from higher institution, I experienced a bit of delay before being called up for service. So I decided on June 11, 2011, to officially start Kolony Catering and Decor in a small restaurant, cooking and baking cakes.

    Describing her early years experience and how she landed her first job. The event expert says.

    “I recall my fiance, now my husband and how he got me my first job. A colleague of his at work wanted to host her daughter’s one year birthday celebration and I was privileged to handle the event. Surprisingly, when we concluded the job, we got loads of positive reviews both offline and online when we posted pictures. And that was it. The breakthrough began”, she noted.

    Akinyemi revealed that patronage from friends and old school mates in her early years also helped out. “I remember with nostalgia how my friends contacted me when they began to get married back then. The jobs were coming in back to back. I also remember doing a job for Lagos State Government which turned out well. I can say all of these helped the business grow in no small measure in the industry.”

    In the space of a decade in the industry, Akinyemi said the brand had received awards at two different times. Best Rental Company of the Year 2019 and Best Decor Company in 2020 respectively.

    Explaining how she broke successfully into the event industry amidst market competition. She says. :”I must say networking is key. First, I joined organisations, one of which is Association of Professional Party Organizers and Event Managers of Nigeria (APPOEMN). Being a part of this body turned out to be the best decision I had ever made in my business. Through APPOEMN, I got connected to many event professionals. Now, having a lot of decor items for rent made people under that umbrella know the brand more and we have had a lot of patronage from our colleagues.

    Another reason she attributes for being so successful is creativity. “That has made us stand out in the market because I do not joke with it. I learn everyday and try to be innovative as there is power in originality, which is what I preach to starters.”

    She continued: “I advice that while they should have mentors and role models, they should not try to be like someone else and never copy and paste. Originality stands you out anywhere you are and next thing you know, you are a household name.”

    Sharing thought on Nigeria’s business terrain, the entrepreneur notes that doing business is Nigeria means being constantly prepared for tough times, as there are always hurdles.

    “The constant loss of the naira against foreign currencies, transportation challenges, having to change staff regularly, struggling to meet deadlines for set-ups are some examples of our constant challenges.

    As for crushing them, we just forge ahead. Having acknowledged that succeeding in business in Nigeria is not for the fainthearted, after every setback, we just pick ourselves up and push even harder.”

    Highlighting some of her brand’s current offering, Akinyemi says they provide exceptional event decoration services, decor rentals which includes flowers and accessories for decorating event spaces as well as offer trainings to aspiring entrepreneurs who want to gain entry into the industry.

    In addition she says. “In 2016, I remember we started the ‘Kolony Rentals’ – an arm of the business I can say made the brand name grow beyond expectation. My colleagues in the industry today, see us as solution to their decor rental needs”.

    Our new baby to the brand is ‘Kolony Impressions. ‘This arm provides bespoke wedding and party dresses for the luxury woman. We have maximized our brand website and instagram handle @kolonyevents to showcase our products with good results to show.

    Sharing success secrets in the last ten years, the flower goddess says the God factor has been her number one trump card. “I have always extolled virtues such as hardwork, originality, doggedness, knowledge and team work.”

    “My family has also been amazing. With a very busy schedule which often involve early mornings, jam-packed afternoons and very late nights, I have come this far only because I have a solid and very understanding support system that includes but is not limited to my husband, kids and my team.” She added.

    Concluding, Adeyemi, shares words of encouragement to budding entrepreneurs in Nigeria.”First, be you. No one can do things like you. Put in your best at every slightest opportunity”.

  • ADEJOKE LASISI: Working with waste made me environmentally-conscious

    ADEJOKE LASISI: Working with waste made me environmentally-conscious

    A few days ago it was world MSME day and many entrepreneurs rolled out the drums. In that pack, you find Adejoke Lasisi, weaver cum recycler, a recipient of the 2021 National MSME awards which took place last week in Abuja. Here Adejoke got the opportunity to showcase her works to many including the wife of the Vice President, Mrs. Dolapo Osinbajo. The creative entrepreneur is a graduate of Economics from Obafemi Awolowo University and proud participant of the President Obama’s Young African Leaders Initiative as well as Regional Leadership Center, West Africa, Accra Ghana in September 2015.
    Last year, in spite of the challenges posed by COVID-19, she emerged the 2020 National MSME winner of the year organised by Access bank. She has participated in a number of global entrepreneurship programs, winning laurels and funding from international business experts who have been inspired by her exceptional, creative, problem-solving and employment generating ideas. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde she takes you into her world, inspiration, challenges and more.

    Tell us about life recycling waste pure water sachet into other products?

    Life recycling pure water sachet into other products has been an interesting experience and at the same time also a challenging one. Initially, when we started it wasn’t coming out the way we wanted it to come out.

    In fact, I did not have a clear vision of what I wanted to do. Then, I just knew that I wanted to make a difference in the environmental space with what I was doing already, which is weaving. So, it’s been fulfilling and I love the fact that we are making a difference.  We are changing the narratives of the environmental sector and we want more people to believe and see the possibilities in some of these things.

    What are some of the things that you have done?

    So far, so good.  We have been able to make a number of beautiful products from the waste. We make them into shoes and bags. From the time we started up till now, we have been able to collect about over 70 thousand kg of those wastes including textile waste. We convert textile waste into floor mats and rugs. I must say that it has been a very interesting journey.

    We have also been able to employ more people to create opportunities for unemployed youths and women.  They have been able to get skills in this sector to set up their own businesses and make it. In addition, they have been empowered to change their communities and wherever they find themselves.

    Tell us about your memorable moments in the sector?

    For me, the memorable moments in the sector are whenever we get products out of the woven plastics.  After weaving that pure water sachet, the things that we were able to do with them are memorable and always a great source of motivation for us. It was and continues to be a major breakthrough.  The fact that we were able to make a standard product out of the waste.

    What are some of the challenges?

    One of the major challenges that we face is to be able to get all these waste from different communities.  It is a challenge in terms of logistics.  Also, another big challenge that we had was acceptance, it was tough for people to accept our products at the beginning. This was because some of them were still looking at them as waste. It was quite challenging convincing them. However, we had to work around it and explored what we call a customer discovery system.  In the process, we talked to about 20 customers and asked them why they would like to buy our products, as well as why they wouldn’t like to buy our products. As well as what they would love to see in our products amongst other things. Any from their feedback, we were able to do what they wanted.

    Another challenge that we had in the sector is funding. We need to be able to get bigger space for storing the waste and make sure it doesn’t affect our health.  We need some distance to stay away in terms of our storage space.

    In addition, we need to get more standard equipment to be able to produce items that meets international standards.

    How has working in the sector affected your personality?

    It has really changed a lot of things for me.  Personally, I am someone who doesn’t like throwing my waste anywhere I go, especially when I do not see a proper place to dispose them. So, most times I would rather keep them in my bag till I get a proper place to dispose it. So, it has really changed things for me.  I have been able to do things differently.  Now, I am more conscious of my environment than I was before now. I am more conscious of reducing and limiting the number of waste that I generate.  I am more conscious of the fact that we need to reuse most of these things.  We need to think about zero waste, not generating waste at all. So, it has really changed a lot of things and the way we think about waste. Now, I don’t see most things as waste, you can always create something from them. So, it just keeps getting better every day.

    What is unique about the school?

    Our weaving school provides basic and advanced weaving techniques by using handlooms and other weaving equipment exploring different colours, fibers and textures to create beautiful handmade material. It is the premier weaving school of this type in Nigeria and it offers a full slate of classes and workshops in weaving to everyone who is interested in this line of business

    I was exposed to weaving at a very tender age, my mother is a weaver, I learnt the art from her but with my education and exposure, I have taken it beyond how it used to be. I left the business to further my education at the university and after finishing school, I returned and found Jokelinks; a weaving school and clothing company, I am doing what I have passion for. I bring creative concepts and ideas alive through mastery of yarn, thread and loom. I am a weaver with a difference, I impact knowledge and train youths”.

    Jokelinks Weaving School is a unique brand that blends traditional and modern wears in a way that creates unique style in clothing. Indeed, if anyone is looking for a brand that specializes in beautiful Asooke (loom weaving of cloth) Jokelinks is the  right place to go! In the past people only use Asooke (hand woven cloth) for occasional purposes but not for casual wears due to its non-durability. Now I have found a way to make this durable but also lighter and fit enough for casual outfits.

    What are your memories working with your mum?

    I enjoyed it because I could create something out of nothing. It was fun initially but later I wanted to go out like my friends.

    What are the other things that occupy your time?

    I read books once in a while.  I like playing basketball and chess a lot. Chess actually takes my time.

    Tell us about the people you admire?

    I admire people that are very hardworking.  I respect them a lot. I like the fact that they don’t wait for anyone before they do things. I also like people that are proud of what they do. I have some people that I look up to here in Ibadan especially Aunty Jumoke who I look up to in the sector.

    What were you doing before this?

    I was actually doing aso-oke and I still do that. That is why I have two Organisations. So, I decided to use what I know already to make a difference.

    If you are to advise young people who want to come into the sector, what would you tell them?

    I would tell them that they should not be in a hurry to make money. The money might not come immediately but they should make sure that they get it right and not give up.

    Where do you hope to be in the next few years?

    I believe that our ideas can be replicated for other African countries.  We are going to reach out to millions of people in the next five years with this initiative.

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

    I would like to see us working more with government, and government working hand in hand with the private sector and come up with policies and laws. You need to make sure you segregate your waste, give it to government and government will in turn give to Organisations that will make use of them.

    How would you describe the impact of COVID-19?

    It was during COVID-19 that we started the second business. Then we realised that so many people stopped using Aso-oke and we came up with new ideas for everyday use. In addition, so many people lost their jobs due to the impact of COVID-19. We needed something that would reduce the impact and we started doing this and also training online. It therefore became a blessing in disguise.

  • OBEY ETOK CHIMA: I am shocked men are still chasing me

    OBEY ETOK CHIMA: I am shocked men are still chasing me

    When in 1998 Obey Etok-Chima came with her coursemates to Lagos for an excursion from the Department of Theatre Arts, Imo State University (IMSU) and landed a role in the blockbuster movie; ‘Camouflage’ little did she know that she is going to be a hit in tinsel town. After the event, Obey, a name she later became popular with, stayed back a while for more jobs before she went back, graduated and became a household name in Nollywood.

    Her role as Sandra in one of the Wale Adenuga television series, No Pain, No Gain of the Super Story fame shot her to limelight and some of her works include Aristos, From A Distance, Edima, Disguised, Power of Love, Two in Love, My Promised Land, Nsuto-Anwan among others. With contemporaries like Rita Dominic, Jennifer Eliogu, Genevieve Nnaji among others, Obey who hails from Ikot-Ekpene Local Government Area of Akwa Ibom State and happily married took a long break to attend to family matters, now she is fully back and ready to blast as she told SAM ANOKAM in this chat.

    What actually happened; did you totally leave acting?

    For the records I did not totally leave acting. Family set in and I had to raise my kids as I didn’t have any house help. The country is bad. It is not as it used to be before that you can leave your children with your neighbours. News abound of house helps with evil intentions. And I don’t want to be a victim. I am scared about things like that. I have heard about a lot of negative things about how it happened to my friend. Even my colleague in the industry was a victim. A house help poisoned one of the children who died. I had to take care of them.

    Even in the midst of all taking care of my home, I was still doing some jobs.

    When you are married to a typical Igboman, it is not everybody that understands what you do. Most Igbomen want their wives to do business. But they don’t understand that that is not your calling.  My husband was like he was going to support my passion at first. You know when a man is looking for something he will tell you whatever, when you now enter, what you think would happen may not begin to happen. Igbomen usually want a hundred per cent attention on their children. They do not joke with them at all.

    Then, I had a boutique but it didn’t progress as I expected. Then I began to sell things. My husband is based abroad and he usually ships things. Whenever he does, I distribute to supermarkets, still, I wasn’t happy.

    Are you now fully back to the industry?

    Yes. My husband has seen that all the things he set up for me, I wasn’t exceling in them. There is nothing like having passion for what you love doing with happiness even when the money is not there. You find out that being in the midst of your colleagues, you are just happy. He has seen that that particular thing that I have been talking about is what gives me joy, even if there is nothing coming in from it. So, he has no choice than to allow me do my thing and especially now that my kids are a bit grown up. I actually started in December with a movie. The next one is supposed to have been with Ernest Asuzu. Unfortunately, he is dead. That one is gone. However, I have been having offers, I am waiting for time to begin shoot.

    When did you partially left acting?

    I would say it was when the former governor of Akwa Ibom state, Godswill Akpabio invited us to Uyo. That was when Samuel Peters won his boxing bout. On my return from Uyo, I realized that there were not much job in the industry, I went back to Uyo and started work in an oil firm. In 2008, I, Emen Isong, Ini Edo, Darling Benson went to the United States to represent Akwa Ibom actors for an event.

    When I returned this time, I got married and started having my children.

    When are you producing your movie?

    I did a soap opera in 2014. We are still waiting for it to sell. You know how these things are. We need sponsors and with that we could do more. However, there is plan underway for movie production soon.

    Are you happy with the way the film industry has progressed or retrogressed from when you were very active and now?

    Formerly, government pretended that it had no business with the industry and everyone was doing their thing on their own. It is not that government has fully done much but during the time of President Goodluck Jonathan and Governor Akpabio, they really supported the industry. And the industry boomed. Even other governors became interested, after seeing the potential which the industry is capable of. We were everywhere. Well, it could be better.

    How was growing up like?

    My growing up was interesting. I grew up in a disciplined and hardworking home. My father was a disciplinarian and I thank God that my parents impacted that culture of discipline in me, even then when I used to behave like a tomboy. I would say I had a solid foundation.

    Who really influenced your going into acting?

    Liz Benson did it for me. I always wanted to be like her. I admired the way she acts and I get delighted watching her on screen. She greatly inspired my going into the Nollywood business.

     What movie were you popular with?

    It was the Wale Adenuga Super Story drama when I played the part of ‘Sandra’ in No Pain, No Gain. It was an emotional and challenging drama. I played the part of a rich man’s daughter that fell in love with Richard who unknown to her used her to become wealthy. It was quite emotional for me.

    What are your hobbies?

    I love football. My Club is Barcelona. I used to play football as a kid. I also enjoy watching movies, house chores and cooking.

  • TORA OLAIYA: Every milestone is memorable for me

    TORA OLAIYA: Every milestone is memorable for me

    Tora Olaiya is a woman of many talents. – a singer, model, TV presenter , lecturer and entrepreneur. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde, she talks about her passion for beauty and skincare, challenges, inspiration from her mum as well as the things she misses about her late uncle, Sir Victor Olaiya.

    Tell us how you got into broadcasting?

    I’ve been into broadcasting for many years; I started in London by obtaining a few certificates in broadcasting and production. Then I gained my professional experience in Nigeria. I got my first break hosting the overnight show on 99.3 Nigeria info FM Lagos and within a year I was hosting the Morning drive time on Cool FM. I would like to take this opportunity to give a big shout out to Mr. Onimisi Adaba and Mr. Nimi Oruye and the entire Cool, Wazobia, Info team for giving me the opportunity. They really didn’t know me from a can of paint but they saw something in me and since then I’ve had the opportunity to work as a presenter and a producer with some of the best broadcasting platforms in Africa including Spice TV and M-Net.

    What was the experience like at the beginning?

    It was hard work but it was also fun because I was literally thrown in at the deep end. I hosted my first show by myself. I wasn’t familiar with the equipment but I took to the challenge like a duck to water because I have a diploma in music technology which really helped me to learn the technical side of radio very quickly. The best thing for me was that I got to learn by working with some of the best broadcasters in the industry. People like Ali Baba, Olisa Adonis, IK Osakioduwa, Eku Edewor and so many more. They don’t know it but they were like my unofficial mentors. I learnt so much by just watching them do their thing on air.

    What were you doing before that experience?

    Before broadcasting I was a university lecturer. I taught in the Middle East and Europe before moving to Nigeria to pursue my passion (broadcasting). My goal is to explore the African Market at large, so I figured Nigeria was a good place to start.

    What are the other things that occupy your time now?

    Now I am an executive. I’m a media consultant and broadcast specialist by trade. I have my own company called T.O.M consulting which is a subsidiary of Toriya Entertainment Limited. We specialize in all things media including production, media training and public relations. We’ve been so blessed to have clients like Warner Music SA, Bet 9ija and Heineken to name a few. I am also the Chief Communications Officer for one of the biggest real estate developers in Lagos. They’re called Dillon Consultants Nigera and they’re expanding into the gas and banking sector. I manage the internal and external communications for the entire group. I’m also producing a podcast with one of the biggest media platforms in Africa. I can’t say much about it now, but expect to hear more about that very soon.

    What are the challenges you encountered?

    I like to see my challenges as lessons. Life lessons to help me grow. At the end of the day what doesn’t kill you or break you can only make you stronger. A hard lesson I learnt was swallowing my pride and not being afraid to start again. I’ve really mastered the art of being flexible and adaptable. But without compromising my principles. It’s taken me a long time to get to this space and I’ve made a lot of mistakes along the way, but that’s life. I believe the biggest lesson you can learn in life is to master yourself. It may sound a bit cliché, but that’s one of the things that are very important to me. It’s important that I’m honest to myself as well as others. I’m at a stage in my life where I say no to opportunities that people would kill for. I don’t say no because I’m too good. I say no because if it doesn’t align with my goals and values, then I don’t do it. I’m no longer in the business of doing things just because I get a cheque or it’s what people think I should be doing.

    What are some of the memorable moments in your life and career?

    When I look back on my career every milestone is memorable for me, just because I always speak what I want to do into existence. For example I wanted to be a TV and radio presenter (done that). I wanted to be a producer (done that). I wanted to start my own company (done that). I wanted to be an executive (doing that). Literally everything I set my heart on comes to pass and my career just keeps growing from strength to strength.

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

    I would like to see more investment in the creatives industries for start. More structure in film, television, music, especially for the youth sector. We need more programs that support young people who are trying to get into the industry.

    What has been the experience in Real Estate?

    Real Estate has been so good to me. It’s changed my life for the better. I’m in a constant state of gratitude and my mindset has really evolved. I’m really grateful to Dillon Consultants Nigeria for giving me the opportunity to grow and flourish doing what I know best (Communications). I feel blessed to be a part of one of the best when it comes to the real estate sector, because it’s so much more than just selling and buying properties. To me, it represents generational wealth, black excellence and African opulence at its finest. Real estate empowers me and it inspires me to demand more of myself and to be the best I can be. Then there’s the fact that I get to combine my passion for media and communications with real estate. Sometimes, I sit back and take it all in and I thank God for all my blessings.

    What are the new areas that you are looking at?

    I’m happy you asked, because Dillon Consultants Nigeria is venturing into the gas and banking sector and I am part of the executive team that will be working on their expansion. Asides, from the corporate world I’m also expanding my business portfolio into the skincare and beauty industry. Most people who know me know that I’m a huge advocate for self-love and as a woman; I really believe that having confidence in your self-worth is the ultimate middle finger to anyone or anything that tries to put you down in anyway.

    We go through life with so many unwarranted judgments and opinions directed towards us and for some women it can be a bit too much. That’s why I’m investing a lot of time and resources into developing my own natural luxury skincare brand, because as women, it’s important that we take the time to take care of ourselves. The skincare, the hair care, eating right, exercising, traveling and relaxing. All of the little self-care routines that are often overlooked or thought of as vain, are really the little investments that we should put more time and effort into. I say this because; peace of mind is the ultimate flex for anyone. Therefore, it’s important to focus on things that give us peace of mind.

    Tell us about the people you admire?

    I admire my mother more than anyone else right now.  Now that I am a young woman coming into my own. I understand her so much more than I ever did. Beyond that I respect and admire her hustle. By the time my mother was my age she had 4 children, real estate and businesses and she did a lot of it with my father being absent because of the nature of his job and lifestyle. My mum definitely wasn’t born with a silver spoon in her mouth. So, when I think about the start she gave me and my siblings in life, I really admire her for that. After my mother, it’s my sisters and then it’s Oprah Winfrey. I hope to meet her one day and have a conversation with her because she seems like someone who can talk about everything and anything.

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

    A really good question which I truly had to think about. I guess the thing that influences me the most is my drive and passion. The rest is God because without the most high I wouldn’t have as much solid people in my life as I do now.

    What is your definition of style?

    I don’t define my style because I focus on what is comfortable and what looks good on me. I really focus on dressing for my body type too. As far as a definition is concerned. I really couldn’t give you one, because my style is forever changing and evolving. If I had to use one word I would call it flexible because really that’s what it is. I adapt my style according to my environment.

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

    See it, believe it and give thanks before it comes. Don’t let anyone tell you NO. For every door that closes another one will definitely open wider so just be ready when it does. For that you need to have the right attitude. Even in the most challenging time, your true test of character is how you come out on the other side of adversity. Anything worth having will never come easy, but find comfort in the fact that it will come as long as you stand the course of time. I would like to share something with you that my mother used to tell me. She used to say “You have to be in it to win it.

    You studied music and your late uncle, Sir Victor Olaiya was a great inspiration to you. What do you miss about him and what does he mean to you?

    Uncle Victor meant a lot to me and the entire Olaiya family. His intellect and creativity was second to none and we miss him every day. The thing I miss about him the most was his charisma. He was a very charming man and even towards the end of his life his charm shone through in his eyes and his smile. Even though he’s missed, his legacy lives on in his children, family and his music and that’s something that inspires me. My late father inspires me in the same way. Even though he died when I was very young, I inherited his passion and I know he’s always with me. I believe my father and uncle Victor are both watching over me.

  • UCHE ELENDU: Why some people can’t deal with fame

    UCHE ELENDU: Why some people can’t deal with fame

    Uche Elendu is one of the consistent faces in Nollywood. Happily she goes down memory lane to talk about her driving force, how it started from school, life as a model, entrepreneur and moving into the digital space because of COVID-19 in this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde

    Tell us about the things that inspire you as an actress and scriptwriter?

    I would say that movie making has the power to edify, inspire, educate and also to heal. That is a very strong driving force that I have and that has helped me to hold onto my career and make the best out of it. The fact that I can be different people at different times is really inspiring.  The fact that I could be different people to others and those people that I am to them is not me. What I mean is that by portraying a character you are becoming somebody else. And to be a good actor, you have to make believe, you have to own the character that you are portraying.

    I don’t need to tell you how difficult this career path is. It is not an easy one at all. But the passion is mixed with pain, sorrow, tears, sweat, hard work and lots of relationships. There are lots of relationships that I have lost because I am an actor. Some people can’t deal with the fame and the things that go on set like a romance movie. That is sacrifice; it comes with the craft of acting. The fact that I have to get up and be possibly the best of me each day. To be better each day really inspires me.

    What were the things you did differently because of the impact of COVID-19?

    Wearing mask up and down is something that is different.  I thought I could never get used to that thing.  I don’t like it. Basically, I slowed down with production.  I had to streamline my activities and I brought my business online. It made me Digital, no physical office and meetings.  Everything I had to do had to be online. I started staying at home more often, took care of my family and be with them more. I also got exposed to methods that can control my business through the online space.

    What were the initial challenges?

    My initial challenges in the movie sector was actually the fact that I started when I was  in the university and I had to double up with my job and studies which my parents were not in support of. My dad was not in support of me doing movies at the time I started and I was sneaking to do them and having to do things that were against the wish of my parents. I loved it and it gave me some self gratifying feeling and I honestly did not think that I was going to make a career out of it. But I did it, I had passion for it and I knew that I was very good at it. So, basically that was really my initial challenge and also the fact that I had to leave the state that I was schooling in to other places like Enugu, Onitsha, Aba to go and film because those were the places then and Lagos.

    You were also a model. What are your memories?

    I started off as a model, not a runway model though. I was doing mostly the adverts. I did a couple of big jobs for organizations like PZ. I was also one of the models that hosted the Governor’s cup in the 90s. That was a very big event that a lot of dignitaries in Nigeria attended. We were the hostesses; we met with a lot of people and had to interact with a lot of people. That gave me a very good platform. I made a lot of contacts, got better jobs from there and met interesting talents, beautiful and intelligent ladies that I worked with at that time. Our mentor and coach was the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria at that time, trying to remember her name now. Angela. It was a wonderful experience that exposed me to a lot of things and I learnt a lot of things. I learnt how to be really classy. I learnt how to comport myself.

    Modeling brought a lot of money too and at that age I was making my own money. I was saving up and when I got to be fully independence, it wasn’t difficult for me because I already had enough saved up from my younger day.

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

    Apart from being an actress, I am an entrepreneur. That takes most of my time. I have an office space in Lagos and I consult for people on weight loss and beauty goals. I also rest, whenever I am not working, spend time with my children. I take them out, play with them and make sure that I spend quality time with them. I also like to travel; I like to relax a lot. I don’t like stress; my body is not good with stress. I find time to unwind and also read a lot.

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

    You will agree with me that a lot of changes have taken place from when we started till now. A whole lot of digitalized improvements, good equipment, lots of marketing platforms but I would like the government to be more involved. I know we generate a lot of revenue for the country; government should invest in us and give us the financial aid to do our production. We need to do a lot of movies and get a film village, where sets can be built and the whole movie can take place in just a little space without us going out and encountering challenges life traffic and other unforeseen challenges. We also need more distribution channels and better pay.

    You are one of the most the consistent faces in the Nigerian movie industry?

    Consistency is a factor that is required to be successful in my career path. I won’t say that I have been consistent as I would love to be. I try as much as possible to make sure that I am not completely out of line. That I am not completely out of the faces of my fans and viewers. What drives me is the passion to make movies. The passion to impact people through my movies and I enjoy it.

    Tell us about your role models and mentors?

    I have a lot of people that I look up to and they include actresses and international stars. I watch their movies, enjoy the way they interpret their roles and the way they live. I look at them and learn from them. But in all, I always want to be myself. I act like myself. I am me and I have carved a niche for myself. My mother is my role model on earth and God is my supreme role model. I watched my model juggle between being a career woman and a mother. As for my mentor, everyone knows that I love Eucharia Anunobi. I admire her acting prowess. I admire her life outside the industry, her intelligence, the way she wants to acquire more knowledge and impact others. She talks to me, prays for me and advises me.

    If I had to change something in the industry, what would it be?

    It would be the way people are casted for movie role.  They cast people based on their physical attributes not ability. It wasn’t like that in our time. No matter how beautiful you are, if you don’t know how to act you not accepted. Now, you see beautiful people murdering roles, making it look like a caricature, wrong moves in their delivery.

    If you had to advise young people who want to come into the sector, what would it be?

    My advice to young people would be, be yourself, discover yourself, don’t do something because others are doing it. Be what you want to be, not what somebody else wants to be or because you see somebody doing well at it, you want to jump into it. I want the young ones to understand and discover themselves first.

    What do I really want? If you don’t know what you want, you would not know how to get it. Most people just want fame. If you go in for the wrong thing, wrong purpose then you would do the wrong things to get the wrong results. I always tell people to believe in themselves, discover themselves, be focused, put efforts, hard work, consistency and prayers into whatever you are doing.

    How do you relax?

    My favourite relaxation method is sleeping. I like sleep when I have the chance because I don’t always have that opportunity. I do business with foreign partners and most times Nigeria is asleep, they are awake because they are in the factory. So, I have to be awake to discuss with them and do my business meetings. And when it is morning in Nigeria, I have to attend to phone calls and attend to clients and family.

    What is your favourite travel destination?

    My favourite travel destination is Dubai. I want to go to the Bahamas, I have never been there. I love very serene, beautiful, magnificent, great, calm ambience kind of destination. Places that I can see the sea, feel the cool breeze. Dubai is usually very hot and I like to travel when it is cold there, not too cold but a little cool. Miami is cool too; I have been to Miami once.

    What types of books do you like to read?

    I read Christian books. I read inspirational books. I like to read books that tell you about life. They tell you how to strategise, how to live life.

    What won’t you do in the name of fashion?

    I would not go naked in the name of fashion. I don’t like wearing short things. I dress the way, I want to be addressed. I wear what is comfortable. I would not wear what is trending. I would wear what soothes my body type, something I feel comfortable in.

    What is your definition of style?

    My definition is therefore comfort, beauty, elegance. I wear things that accentuate my body. Things that hide my flaws and bring out the best in my body.

    Tell us about the principles that you hold onto in life?

    My mother always told me not to throw stones if I am living in a glass house. Don’t do unto others what you wouldn’t want them to do unto you. That has made me a very kind person. That has made me to overlook the challenges that have been thrown at me.

    Lessons

    Life as taught me that it is only me that knows me. Nobody can know me better than I do. Life has taught me that in every rumour there is an atom of truth, is actually a fallacy. There are a whole lot of rumours that does not have even the tiniest atom of truth in them. Life has taught me that people are just interested in what they can get from you. Their loyalty lies in what they are getting from you. Once the source of the supply is cut off, the loyalty ends there. So, I have learnt to be myself. To do what I can do for others not to be given in return, not to be compensated, not to be thanked. But because the Bible says we should love our neighbours as ourselves and we should do good to others.

  • BOMA OBUROH: How Oprah inspires my health events

    BOMA OBUROH: How Oprah inspires my health events

    BomaTonye Oburoh is a clinical pharmacist with special interest in diabetes and hypertension. In this interview with Yetunde Oladeinde she talks about how inadequate management led to her mother’s death, how this inspired and fired her passion, managing other chronic diseases and more.

    You have shown interest in issues around diabetes and hypertension. What are some of the experiences in the sector?

    In my 14 years as a pharmacist, I have dealt with a variety of patients living with several health issues. However, I further enhanced my practice in hypertension and diabetes whilst doing my independent prescribing qualification 6 years ago.

    As a specialist diabetes and hypertension pharmacist, 70% of my day-to-day clinic involves managing people living with diabetes from varying ethnicities and its associating health complications or complexities (e.g., Hypertension, hyperlipidaemia (raised cholesterol), heart failure, Angina, underactive thyroids, to name a few.

    It is exceedingly rare to see a patient with diabetes alone as often they have other associating health problems or complications that have developed from a constantly raised blood sugar level or they have other problems that must be considered when treating their diabetes. The exposure to these additional conditions, have increased and expanded my medical knowledge and capability in dealing with not only patients’ diabetes and its complications but other ailments as well.

    More people are advancing in technology and have smart phones. Can these be used to tackle some of the issues by giving ease of accessibility to clinicians when needed?

    I understand that specialist services may not be available in every local hospital within Nigeria because they have to be delivered by specialist teams of Endocrinologist who are already few and assumingly burdened by the growing number of the disease; however, it will be great if local hospitals focus on getting specialist to manage patients living with diabetes and its co-morbidities to reduce the complexities that arise from mismanagement.

    You were also inspired because of a case of negligence that affected your mum. Tell us about this?

    I spoke to my mum the day she was admitted. Prior to her admission, she had initially complained of feeling generally unwell as she was tired and weak. Despite the tiredness, she was able to hold a conversation with me agreed to go to the hospital after I had advised she got checked out.  My brother, who was in Port-Harcourt at the time, took her to the hospital.

    On getting there, I was told her glucose levels and her blood pressure readings were raised. I asked to speak to the doctor to understand the exact situation and discuss the management plan, but he refused to speak to me. My brother insisted he spoke to me as I was medical, and I could understand what was going on and further explain and simplify things to him (my brother). When the doctor finally agreed to speak to me, he initially told me her blood pressure and blood glucose reading which were raised but not considered as an emergency. He further asked what aspect of medicine I practiced and when I said I was a pharmacist, he spoke down on me because I was “only a pharmacist” and questioned my knowledge of diabetes care. He said, I should leave her treatment in his hands as he did not think I knew enough to offer him advice and he needed to reduce her blood pressure and blood sugars immediately back to normal and I was taking his time. I had no avenue to speak as he handed the phone back to my brother. A few hours later, when she started showing signs of decline, he asked for my brother to take her to another hospital as he could no longer manage her.

    My brother decided to discharge my mum and take her to a different hospital. On getting to the new hospital, I spoke to the new doctor and provided him with up-to-date information of my mother’s conditions and her drugs. I also explained all that had happened previously with the other hospital. He was more understanding and appreciated my knowledge of my mother’s condition as he mentioned that would help to speed up his management plan. He explained everything he had done and had planned to do which gave me total confidence in his knowledge and ability. Though he didn’t mutter many words, he kept saying the damage had been done and he would do his best to manage her. Unfortunately, mum passed away within 24 hours of arriving at this new hospital.

    Mum did not have access to a specialist diabetes physician. The suboptimal management of her diabetes and her diabetes and blood pressure led to complications that eventually became fatal.

    This experience has fuelled my desire to ensure that someone else does not experience such services either as a patient or the child or parent of a patient.

    Tell us about your role models, people you admire in your career or in life?

    This is like opening a can of worms as they are too numerous to mention but I will name a few.

    My ultimate role model was my mother and continues to be. She was a woman of beauty, intelligence and excellence and she was committed to her community. She loved to a fault (if there was ever a thing like that) and she always had the smartest answer to the silliest questions, yet she never belittled any of my imaginative ideas but encouraged me to be the best in all I did.

    Others include my previous and current Pastors (Pastor Grant Erskine and Pastor Sola Fola-Alade). They are exceptional men of prayer and of the word who bring the word in season and stir up your faith to where you need to be.

    Oprah Winfrey is on my list of admiration. I always dream of meeting Oprah one day. I love her style of operation especially her talk show. I watch how dignified she is and how versatile she is. I aspire to be like her (a woman of honour, class, and style but I have a journey ahead of me), but yet staying true to myself. For now, I use her modem of operation when hosting my health events and I hope to continue to advance in this.

    Finally, and most recently in January 2021, I was fortunate to meet a man of honour Fela Durotoye through the Gemstone Leadership specifically “speak for Gold”.  I must say that experienced has left me positively baffled.

    How can the government help to make things better?

    The 2019 health care market needs (Nigeria) quoted that the healthcare expenditure in Nigeria was predicated to an estimate of over 5 billion Naira by 2021. Though this seems a huge amount, Nigeria’s healthcare system is not attaining the provision of the level of service required to meet the health needs of the population.

    Not only are there fewer specialist clinicians to deal with this growing demand, but there are also inadequate facilities to meet the needs of the growing population and the rise in the disease. The revenue/expenditure for healthcare (particularly diabetes) needs to be reviewed and addressed urgently by the government.

    It is the responsibility of the government to protect and advance health care; however, the involvement of the government within health care continues to be an area of concern as not enough seems to be done at the moment.

    Bringing in specialists in Diaspora like myself and many more, who have always dreamt giving back to the continent. If people and resources are outsourced, a scheme where fees are subsidised by the government will be ideal.

    The ultimate goal of attaining and achieving an enhanced high quality of care will require a strong and coherent partnership between the federal, state, and local Governments and private specialist centres who are able to offer such services.

    What are your achievements over the years?

    Becoming a pharmacist was my first achievement. I have had a range of experiences in hospitals and community and now primary care (aka family practice). I have attained my qualifications in independent prescribing. I am autonomous in my practice as I can prescribe and manage patients within my scope of practice.

    Whilst all these are great, I consider some of my greatest achievements to be attributed to the increased health and well-being of my patients living with diabetes. Recently I had a lady who was in her late 70’s complain of constantly being tired and attributing her tiredness to her diabetes. I ordered for some bloods to be taken as her treatment and previous blood test for diabetes showed her diabetic levels were within her target range.  I did not want to assume with the patient’s current medications and documented blood glucose monitoring.

    When reviewing the blood test results, there was a disparity with her other blood result which was a cause for concern and required an immediate referral to secondary care to review. It turned out she had leukaemia and has since began her treatment pathway.

    My recent appearance as a speaker on a panel in the Diabetes UK conference (the leading charity for diabetes) in the United Kingdoms (UK) on the topic improving diabetes medicines optimisation, safe use, and clinical outcomes (Biopsychosocial and Biochemical outcomes) across sectors, and also as a co-chaired to a discussion during the Diabetes UK conference was another highlight and achievement in my career.

    Finally, I think my parents will be rejoicing with the angels and they will be smiling down from heaven giving me a thumb up. I can clearly see my mum and dad’s face and thumbs saying, “I’m super proud of you”. I hope my husband, child, brother and extended family and friends will be smiling proudly too with the difference my practice makes to the patients in my care.

    What type of books do you like to read?

    I’m more of a podcast girl. Life gets busy and you’re always running around but podcast comes on the move with me and inspires and teaches me.

    When I settle down to take time to read, I love inspirational books as well as those that challenge the mind to think bigger and better. I currently started reading the book Vision by H Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al. It is one I’ll recommend.

    What would you describe as the turning point in your career as a pharmacist?

    In the United Kingdom and many 1st world countries, being a pharmacist is much more than the known or perceived chemist or in some cases herbalist who stands behind the counter and yields to the demands of the patients without an in-depth input into their care.

    The day I chose to go beyond standing behind a counter to dispense drugs to taking part in the opportunity provided by the UK government to enhance and advance my career as a general practice clinical pharmacist was life changing in my opinion. I undertook an 18-month pathway training deepening my understanding clinical areas and shadowing and working alongside a multidisciplinary team.

    You have practiced in the UK. How would you compare the experience in Nigeria with what obtains over there?

    Though I have not worked within the shores of Nigeria since I qualified as a health care professional, I have spent a good percentage of my life in the Nigerian system, and I’ve experienced health care professionals in Nigeria either as a patient or the relative to a patient.  I also have friends and extended relatives that still reside in Nigeria and Nigeria will always have a special part of my heart.

    Some of the doctors are doing a fantastic job within the shores of Nigeria (I must take my hat off in respect to the great ones; however, I feel there are a high percentage of clinicians that are more centred on financial gains rather than patient care. Their focus seems to be deterred from the original reason they swore an allegiance to patient care.

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

    There is a misconception of the role of a pharmacist within the African Continent.  The understanding of many people is that the place of a pharmacist is behind the counter. You get some sayings that “pharmacists are failed doctors” (one who intended to study medicine but did not get into medical school). Though that may be true for some pharmacists, I totally disagree with that statement as there are many who specifically want to be pharmacist and are great in what they do.

    Being a pharmacist comes with a lot of pride for me. I believe pharmacy is beyond dispensing of drugs. There is a lot more to it than actually fathomed. I love pharmacy because you can holistically manage a patient from a combination of your knowledge of drugs and disease area.

    If you had to advise Nigeria Youths today, what would you tell them?

    Sometimes we are preoccupied with the grand ideas to change the world and we want a massive stage to accomplish these, but the truth is it all begins with you.

    “You don’t have to do things big to do big things” was a sentence I recently heard which juggled my memory and a reminder of things my mum always taught me. Start with the small things and be diligent in the little.

    What will you describe as the turning point in your career?

    I have always considered myself as an efficient pharmacist, but my career changed when I made a switch to primary care and became a Clinical Pharmacist. I found that the training provided enhanced my clinical skills in the General day to day patient care.

    Secondly, though I had an I interest in hypertension and diabetes, my desire to deepen my knowledge started when my mum was diagnosed. Prior to that I understood diabetes as part of the training done at university level and I had used the knowledge gained to managed people living with diabetes but more on what I consider an average level.

    However, after her death I decided to hone in more on the experience. It was almost like I was only looking down the microscope and starring at one thing only.

    I attended loads of continuous professional trainings. I listened to varying consultants, medical Podcasts and I looked at the science behind the disease and drugs used for the disease and also how diet and lifestyle plays a major role.

    I found ways I could simplify things to people to aid their understanding of the disease because I felt if we threw away the medical jargon when dealing with patients, then they will understand the basics to enable them to make a more informed decision about their health.

    I can’t say I’m perfect, but I do my humanly possible best as I’ll like to think.

    I have and continue to use all I learn to make as much difference in people’s lives as possible and the results speak for themselves.

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

    The 2019 statistics from the international Diabetes Federation (IDF) quoted an estimated 463 million adults living with diabetes with an expected increase to about 700 million adults by 2045.

    Of this expected increase, Africa is expected to have the largest percentage increase of 143% by 2045.

    I consider this a very alarming, estimated increase and the questions left unanswered are… Do we have enough diabetologist and endocrinologist in Nigeria to deal with the rise in prevalence of diabetes? How do we tackle this rise?

    I believe various aspects can be reviewed such as:

    Enable and upskill specialist within this area. Unfortunately, there are not enough diabetes specialists to deal with the growing demands of the condition. My desire is to have specialist diabetes services accessible to people living with diabetes from the comfort of their home.

     

     

     

     

     

     

  • He’s achieved a lot within a short time

    He’s achieved a lot within a short time

    The Chief Whip of the Lagos State House of Assembly, Princess Mojisola Meranda, who is elder sister to Oba Lawal Oniru, told TAJUDEEN ADEBANJO that the monarch has achieved a lot.

    HOW would you describe his reign in office so far?

    I would say kudos to him because in a short period, he has been able to achieve a whole lot since his installation. He has done wonderfully well within a very short period.

    How would you describe him?

    He has always been a wonderful man, even before ascending the throne of his forefathers and he has not changed. One thing I also noticed is that he has also grown more in wisdom because of the way he has been able to coordinate everybody, the extended family, the community… I am really impressed.

    What should the people of Iru be expecting from him?

    They should expect more good things in terms of development in Iru, more unity among them and in the family; because he has started well. He has been able to unite a whole lot of people in a short while, so they should expect more of such.

  • Kabiyesi is passionate about Iru development, says friend

    Kabiyesi is passionate about Iru development, says friend

    Mr Hakeem Akintoye, a lawyer and long-time friend of Oba Lawal Oniru spoke on how he became the monarch’s Private Secretary

    I’m a lawyer and Kabiyesi’s personal friend for many years and also his Private Secretary. I have known him since 1997 when we were young and trying to find our feet and over the years, our relationship has grown deeper because we share a similar view about life.

    Talking about him, he is a very unassuming person right from our youth days. He has always been a focused person, unassuming and calm even in the heat of a situation, and I have learnt to also imbibe that calmness in my own life. He is a forthright person.

    “When we were growing up, he made reference his being a prince and one of those days we had arguments and he told me to go and read a judgement on Lagos affairs. I told him that I’m the lawyer, but he said no, that I may be the lawyer but there is a case his father pursued all the way to the Supreme Court…and that was the foundation of discussing his heritage and background. I have always known him to be a prince and he has always carried himself with dignity and the respect that comes with royalty. That I can say about him, so it’s not surprising that he is king.

    “I became his Private Secretary by natural flow of event; we share similar views about development. When he was considering doing his second degree, we discussed that he should study Law but he later went to the School of African Oriental Studies at the University of London. He studied Conflict, Development, and related courses which are tailored into people development; and that tells you the outlook and what people should expect from him. A lot of effort is been made towards development, economic enhancement, empowerment, environment, and social integration. Iruland is in safe hands because the monarch is passionate about developing it.”