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Tag: Asaba

  • Mandela ressurects in Asaba, as South Africa marks 20th anniversary

    Mandela ressurects in Asaba, as South Africa marks 20th anniversary

    The South African Consulate in Nigeria marked last week 20 years of the country’s freedom and democracy and the Nelson Mandela International Day.

    In Asaba, the Delta State capital, a programme was held at the scenic Nelson Mandela Garden of 95 Trees in honour of the late freedom fighter.

    The Nelson Mandela Garden of 95 Trees was founded in 2013, a joint initiative of the Delta State government and a civil society organisation, Fight Against Desert Encroachment (F.A.D.E). It is a research, educational and recreational centre.

    South African Ambassador to Nigeria Mokgethi Monaisa, at a news conference, said the objective of the celebrations was “to identify with the nations and people that stood fast with South Africans, supporting them in their struggle for freedom”.

    He said Nigeria played an important role in the liberation of the majority of the South African people.

    Monaisa observed that the global Nelson Mandela International Day highlights the values and ideals that Mandela exemplified, adding that the consulate “has identified Delta State as one of our key friends with which we would like to share this moment.”

    His words: “Apartheid has been with us for centuries and we have been free from it and we redress the iniquities of the imbalances that were caused by the apartheid regime.  This cannot happen overnight, it becomes a process, but so far we have achieved a lot towards the dream  of Nelson Mandela and his peers who at the time early in our struggle, fought very hard to bring us to where we are.  Some of them have gone like he himself, but we are carrying on that beacon. If you go to SA today, it is definitely not the SA of 1994.We have addressed a lot of imbalances .

    “We have social programmes to bridge the gap between the haves and the have not. We have built a lot of schools for the people, we have social grants to take care of our aged ,the disabled, the needy, especially the abandoned children. We have built more hospitals in the country and electricity. You are aware that SA is highly industrialised and therefore generates power, but even then has built more power plants. Many homes, especially the homes of the previously disadvantaged are electrified. A lot of roads have been built especially to areas which used to be for blacks only. In the educational arena SA is now building three new universities in three provinces that did not have universities. Universities used to be concentrated in certain areas such as Bloemfontein, Johannesburg, Cape Town, Pretoria and Durban. We did not have universities in Northern Cape, Umphumalaga .We are really living Mandela’s dream.”

    He said government has tackled crime in SA headlong, noting that the crime situation was perceptive rather than real.

    According to him, the media exaggerated the issue of crime in the run-up to2010 World Cup in South Africa.

    He said, “We demonstrated to the world that what they read in the newspaper and the perception they had was not true…the World Cup came and went with no major incident. People were so free that many decided to stay longer. Some of them came back to buy property in South Africa”.

    Delta Governor Emmanuel Uduaghan represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Festus Okubor, described the late Mandela as an “icon”, adding the state is honoured to host part of the celebrations commemorating South Africa’s 20th anniversary  and Nelson Mandela Day.

    He said this honour by the South African consulate speaks volumes about the “concerted efforts of Delta State government under Dr Emmanuel Uduaghan to open up the State to the outside world”.

    The founder of F.A.D.E and renowned environmentalist, Mr. Jibunoh Newton, said he adopted Nelson Mandela as his mentor about 50 year ago. He said his NGO in conjunction with the state government in 2013 built the Nelson Mandela Garden of 95 trees to commemorate the life of sacrifice exemplified by Nelson Mandela.

    He said: “All the 95 trees are doing well and some have even started flowering.”

    The highpoint of the occasion was a visit by Monaisa and his entourage to Madonna School for Children with Needs, Okpanam, Oshimili North Local Government Area. The group donated books, writing materials and Tee-shirts to the over 193 pupils of the school run by the Catholic Mission. Pupils were entertained with soft drinks in a ceremony which lasted over two hours.

  • Igbo Film Festival to hold in Asaba

    A body of Nollywood Igbo extraction has revealed that it will hold its 4th Nollywood Igbo Film Festival and Awards later in the year.

    The festival, according to the organisers, is to help filmmakers reach a wide audience, enable the international film community and general public to experience the power of cinema and promote Asaba City in Delta State as a major film-making centre.

    The organisers further said: “The event is a viable platform for the promotion of the rich cultural heritage of Ndigbo.”

    Already, preparations are in top gear for this year’s event, which holds at the Nelrose Hotel Complex in Asaba, Delta State from August 27 to 30.

    Alex Eyengho, Vice President, Federation of International Association of Film Producers, will deliver a paper titled: “Legal framework for defending intellectual property rights in Nigeria and internationally.’

    Also,Dr. IFO. A. Amata of Delta State University, Asaba Campus will deliver a paper  titled: “Nollywood: Veritable tool for cultural expression”, while Rob Emeka Eze, CEO, Reemy Jes Production and Leader of Film & Video Producers/Marketers, South East, Nigeria, will talk on “Making, Financing and Distributing Films in Nigeria: Challenges and Prospects”.

    Other events lined up for the programme include a conference, courtesy visits, excursion, script and film workshops, awards, film show, exhibition, cultural displays, Nollywood poolside party and many more.

  • It’s not my fault I’ve big hips–Nollywood actress ‘Crystal Okoye

    It’s not my fault I’ve big hips–Nollywood actress ‘Crystal Okoye

    Crystal Okoye, a 300-level student of Business Administration at the Nnamdi Azikiwe University, is a fast-rising Nollywood actress. The Nnewi, Anambra State-born movie star, in this interview with GBENGA KUTELU, talks about her passion for acting, challenges and more.

    WHEN precisely did you join the movie industry?

    It was two years ago when I went to see a friend at a movie location in Asaba, Delta State. The cast members were just getting ready for the shoot. They waited for an artiste who, unfortunately, did not show up. So, they decided to feature me in the movie: Though I had wanted to be an actress before I got on that location that day, I didn’t know how to go about it.

    What does it feel like being a movie star?

    I feel like a star already. You can’t imagine what I go through in the public. There was a time I went to a shop, where prices were fixed to all the items. I paid for all the stuff I bought; but to my surprise, the owner said that as a movie star, I should pay a different price. She said, ‘You actors have money, so you should be able to afford whatever I price I give you.” I was speechless at that moment. Also, most of the time, people stop me on the road and request for photographs with me. At times, I feel shy, but that is the prices of stardom.

    How did your parents react initially when you were coming into the industry?

    Yes, I had the support of my parents until they passed on in 2010. It was a painful moment for me when that happened.

    Who are your role models in the industry?

    My role model is Pete Edochie. He plays a fatherly role in my life. He was one of first set of people I met when I joined the movie industry. My other role model is Stephanie Okereke.

    Do you get sexually harassed by men in the movie industry?

    It’s a choice you have to make. If you decide you want to sleep around with men in the industry, it may favour you or turn the other way round. Everyone has his or her own choice to make in the industry. I’ve heard about sexual harassment in the industry. There are also stories about ladies who really go out to have sex with producers just to appear in their movies. My belief is that if God does not want you to be in a movie, you won’t. But if you are fated to be in any movie, you will surely get it. So, I believe that becoming a star is about destiny. If God says that is your destiny, then, it will be.

    How do you manage advances from men?

    All my life, I get several men who admire me. I’m a beautiful lady and I know it; so, it depends on the way it comes.

    What part of your body do you treasure most?

    I treasure and protect my whole body. I spend lot of money to maintain my skin, just to keep me sparkling.

    What’s your unique selling point?

    I know I’m blessed with my shape. Some girls have walked up to me to ask how I gained the figure. They say: “I want to be curvy like you”. And my simple answer is: it is the way that God created me. It’s natural. People admire me for my height, looks and figure. When you talk of Crystal Okoye in the movie industry now, people always describe me as being beautiful and curvy. I know my figure, height and beauty opens the doors for me easily. There’s no way people will walk past me without noticing my waist. It’s a gift from God.

    What attracts you most to men?

    I go close to people that are intelligent and people that I can learn something from.

    Can you talk about the movie that has transformed your life?

    It is The Priceless, a Ghanaian movie. The storyline caught my attention. It was the only movie that I have ever made, which made me shed uncontrollable tears.

    What was growing up like for you?

    It was interesting. My parents were there all along before I lost them few years back.

    Could you recall your first experience in the first movie you featured in?

    It was in Speak the words. I was very young then. My dad introduced me to his friend, who then referred me to his brother. This was a long time ago. I was much younger then, but my hips were there. My hips have always been a major attraction for me. It’s one of those things that attract men to me. It isn’t my fault that I’m curvy in figure.

    What would you have been doing if you were not an actor?

    I would have gone into importation of female clothing.

    Doesn’t your profession affect your education?

    No, it doesn’t in any way. I run a part-time programme (CEP). I go to school only on weekends. When I’m sitting for examination, I don’t accept acting jobs. I have my textbooks, which I study even while I’m not in school.

    Would you mind if any of your children go into acting?

    I think a child has the right to choose a career for him or herself. You have to give your children the support they need, so you don’t have to impose any profession on them.

    Have you won any award?

    No, but I know it will happen soon.

    Which is your choice: sex or money?

    (General laughter) Money is good. With money, I’ll be able to build the houses of my choice and buy the best of cars. Without money, you can’t do anything. Sex is a momentary enjoyment that does not translate into anything. With money, I’ll invest into things that will help and not a few seconds of enjoyment.

    What brand of car do you like?

    Porsche because I like classic things.

  • Yuletide: Hotels record business boom in Asaba

    Hotels in Asaba recorded a boom in business during the yuletide as parents and children patronised them for some special Christmas programmes.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the hotels, including Nelrose, Grand, Benizir Orchid, Valerie, among others, became beehive of activities, especially children’s programmes.

    The General Manager of Nelrose Hotels, Mr Clement Odeiga, said that the hotel recorded higher patronage during the yuletide.

    Odeiga attributed the increase to the various activities organised by the hotel and residents’ gradual realisation of the importance of relaxation during holidays.

    He said that most of the hotels in Asaba had lots of special activities, different from what was recorded in the previous years.

    “This year, we introduced more programmes for children, unlike the previous year where 50 per cent of all our programmes were for adults.

    “But this year we decided to introduce pool parties, children’s games, swimming competition as well as live band performance to thrill them.

    “We had more than 500 children who attended our Christmas party and swimming competition unlike last year when we had about 300 in attendance,” he said.

    NAN reports that the situation was different in some hotels without such programmes during the season.

    The proprietor, Bonson Bonlise Hotels, Chief Boniface Uchaogwu, said that in spite of discounts offered on accommodation fees in the hotel, patronage was still low during the period.

    According to Uchaogwu, patronage has been very low in the hospitality industry in the state in the last one year.

    Source: (NAN)

     

  • ‘Fake cleric’ remanded for alleged theft of N20m

    An Asaba-based ‘fake cleric’ has been remanded in prison custody following the defrauding of over 20 persons of N20 million, the Delta Police Command has said.

    He was arraigned on a 20-count charge at an Asaba Magistrate’s Court.

    The ‘fake clergyman’, identified as Apostle Prince Victor Osakwe, heads the Holy Hill Zion Prophetic and Solution Ministry, Akwu-Ofu, Asaba.

    In a statement to The Nation, Delta Police Command acting spokesman Charles Muka said the ‘fake cleric’s’ method of operation was to raise the alarm of an impending death and calamity, which would befall the victims.

    The victims, according to Muka, part with cars, money and other valuable items.

    He said the accused had defrauded people of cars, adding that he fraudulently took over the warehouse he used as his church hall.

    Muka said the items recovered from him included a Peugeot 406 saloon car with registration number AYB237 AA, Ford Navigator with number plate “De General”, Honda with registration number HF 404 ABC and a Chrysler Voyager with number plate SLK 411AA.

  • Living funeral for premiere at Asaba

    After a successful Lagos premiere of its breast cancer awareness movie – Living Funeral, public service charity organsation, Pink Pearl Foundation is set to premiere in Asaba, Delta on Tuesday, December 3.

    The premiere, scheduled to hold at The Dome, Asaba will, like its Lagos edition, feature a cinema-style screening session and roundtable discussion. The heart-touching film full of love, passion and breathtaking emotional scenes tells the inspiring story of Yvette, a young woman coming to terms with her battle with breast cancer.

    The movie portrays the incredible journey of hope, bravery and despair told through the eyes of the lead character’s sister (played by same actress – Stephanie Wilson) and her hard-hearted mother (Ameye) who refuses to come to terms with her daughter’s illness. To help her family deal with their grief, Yvette holds a mock funeral while still alive.

    Directed by Udoka Oyeka and produced by Mrs. Orode Ryan-Okpu (Founder/Chief Executive Officer, Pink Pearl Foundation), the film stars Nollywood veterans, Liz Ameye (Benson), Norbert Young and up and coming actress, Stephanie Wilson.

    With impressive reviews already generated from the Lagos premiere, the Delta edition hopes to reach out to an even larger audience thereby promoting the knowledge of breast cancer and early detection. Pink Pearl Foundation with support from select doctors will also offer free breast screening programme for the event day.

    Living Funeral is evidence to the organisation’s dedication to increase public awareness through education about symptoms, prevention, diseases processes and the importance of regular examination for early detection.

     

     

     

     

  • Delores Odogwu’s hope rising

    Delores Odogwu’s hope rising

    DELORES, one of the daughters of Asaba high chief, Sonny Odogwu, has successfully carved a niche for herself in the social stratum. Though her crashed marriage to Abuja-based Stan Rerri made her withdraw into her shell, Delores is gradually putting this behind her, as she has found love and seems to be giving marriage another shot.

  • Editors want FG to diversify economy

    Editors want FG to diversify economy

    The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has urged the Federal Government to embark on sustained diversification of the nation’s economy in a bid to free it from further dependence on oil and gas.

    The call was contained in a seven-point communiqué signed by the NGE Secretary, Isaac Ighure, at the end of a four-day conference held in Asaba, Delta, from August 21 to August 24.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the 9th All Nigerian Editors’ Conference with the theme, “Nigeria Beyond Oil: Role of the Editor,’’ was chaired by a one-time Ogun Governor, Chief Olusegun Osoba.

    The guild suggested that agriculture, tourism and other non-oil sources should be “intensively explored to avert the catastrophic consequences of a future without oil.”

    The statement said financial institutions and funding agencies should provide increased funding to non-oil sectors, especially agriculture, small and medium enterprises and manufacturing.

    “It is imperative for Nigeria to embark on deliberate and sustained diversification of its economy, weaning itself from dependence on oil and gas as a major revenue earner.

    “There should be an integrated approach to diversification of the economy by involving all sectors, curbing corruption and wastage, and improving governance to ensure the survival of the country beyond oil.’’

    The editors also called on the government to fast track efforts toward improving infrastructure, particularly in the power sector, transportation and telecommunications.

    They stressed the need for the country to add value to oil and gas resources through the production of by-products for local consumption and export.

     

  • Nigeria should evolve beyond oil, or perish – NGE president

    Nigeria should evolve beyond oil, or perish – NGE president

    The President, Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), Mr. Femi Adesina, on Thursday in Asaba said that Nigeria needed to envision and evolve a nation beyond oil or it could “perish.”

    In his address of welcome at the 9th All Nigerian Editors Conference, Adesina said “Nigeria must now diversify, or die. For well over four decades, we have run a mono-product economy.

    “Petroleum has been our mainstay, and we have allowed the easy money from oil to strangulate other cash cows like agriculture, solid minerals, tourism and many others.

    “But as they say, `everyday is not Christmas, and the Egungun (masquerade) festival must end one day. The honeymoon is about ending.’’

    Adesina also told the conference that “oil is fast becoming a vanishing source of easy revenue. Nigeria once had a pride of being one of the largest producers of petroleum on the continent, but not anymore.

    “Ghana, Kenya, Uganda, Cameroun, Chad and some others have also found oil. And much more contentious is the fact that America, our largest customer has discovered shale oil and so may not need to patronise us again.

    “I tell you doomsday is by the corner, except we become proactive and stave off the evil.’’

    The News Agency of Nigeria reports that he argued that it was inconceivable that a country which could no longer fund its imports remained a consumer nation.

     

  • FG has no plans to gag the press – Maku

    FG has no plans to gag the press – Maku

    The Minister of Information and Culture, Mr. Labaran Maku, has given the assurance that the Federal Government has no plan to gag the press.

    The minister gave the assurance on Thursday in Asaba at the opening of the 9th All Nigeria Editors Conference.

    Maku said the media had been operating in an atmosphere of freedom and vigorous debate.

    He said the media had remained the freest in Africa, adding that even in the military era; it operated with a considerable degree of freedom.

    “Nigeria has remained the leader in terms of press freedom in Africa and gagging of the press in this country is not practicable,” the News Agency of Nigeria quoted the minister saying at the conference.

    He expressed worries over some unethical practices among some journalists as well as poor quality of reports and urged the Guild to do all it could to reverse the trend.

    “We must worry about the quality of our reports and we need strong ethics for the profession to survive,” he said.

    Maku said also that government was favourably disposed to discuss issues pertaining to press council with the Nigeria Guild of Editors and other stakeholders.

    The minister said security remained a very serious challenge to the country and called on the media to join hands with government in fighting the menace.