Tag: Valentine

  • SNAPSONG 244

    SNAPSONG 244

    A spelling test for Valentine

    Love is a four-letter word

         An Equal Opportunity engagement

    With two lean consonants

         And two voluptuous vowels

    Its smile is longer than a mile

         It tears deeper than the deepest ocean

    It strides into a midnight room

         And darkness bolts out of the nearest window

    Its shout is a soft serenade

         Its whisper a friendly waterfall

    Bees show them the way

         To their rarest honey

    Soft and hard

         Hard, then soft

    A thousand thrills and frills  

    Read Also: Six well-paying underrated jobs in Nigeria

         A million moans and magic murmurs

    Sweet, oh how sweet

         The summons of happy songs

    Then sour and rudely rich

         The tenor of the pensive interlude

    So shoot that arrow, Cupid

         Shoot it now, raw and rapid

    In your crowded quiver

         Resides our quenchless fever

  • 17 romantic places to visit this Valentine

    17 romantic places to visit this Valentine

    Valentine’s Day 2025 is just around the corner, and love is in the air across Nigeria. Whether you’re planning a grand romantic gesture or an intimate getaway, this is the perfect time to celebrate with your special someone.

    From the bustling cities of Lagos and Abuja to the serene landscapes of Cross River, Ekiti and Kaduna, Nigeria offers a variety of romantic destinations that cater to every couple’s taste. Whether you’re into beachside retreats, adventurous escapades, or cozy hideaways, there’s a perfect spot waiting for you to create unforgettable memories this Valentine’s Day.

    Here are 17 romantic places to visit this Valentine

    1. Kajuru Castle – Kaduna

    This enchanting medieval style resort sits amidst the Kajuru village in the trade city of Kaduna. The hideaway is perfect for couples dreaming of a romantic haven with spectacular views, peace and tranquillity, glittering night and nature at its best. Wake up to spectacular views of Kajuru village and enjoy breakfast served with true ‘Naija’ hospitality. Enjoy a barbeque or cookout and relax by the pool. If you are in the mood for some self-care, head to the sauna and loosen up your nerves. Kajuru is an ideal place to visit for an awesome romantic getaway.

    2. Obudu Ranch – Cross River

    Obudu Ranch has proven to be the perfect getaway destination. It is located in Cross River, one of the most beautiful states in Nigeria. If you are hoping to reignite the romantic flames between you and your spouse without much distraction, then the Obudu Ranch is perfect for you. The alluring atmosphere coupled with a perfect blend of both nature and modernity is certainly the perfect choice for you to celebrate Valentine’s Day. The popular travel destination offers fantastic activities such as swimming and cable cars riding.  Walk on air with the Canopy Walkway and don’t forget to visit the Agbokim Waterfalls,  only a 3-hours drive. Obudu Ranch has been recognised over years as the perfect spot to establish a lasting memorable moment with your loved ones.

    3. Whispering Palms – Badagry, Lagos

    Whispering Palms is located within the lush tropical landscape, swaying palm trees and pristine beaches of Badagry. Toast your special moment together with an intimate luxury sunset ride on the beach, or indulge in a romantic dinner with your partner while watching the sunset. The resorts offer various amenities such as a mini zoo, classic restaurants and comfortable hotel rooms that will definitely enhance the mood throughout your stay. This is an ideal destination for those seeking romance or utter relaxation.

    4. Lekki Conservation Centre – Lagos

    Founded in 1990 by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, the Lekki Conservation Center preserves a large part of the region’s biodiverse coastal ecosystem and educates visitors on the importance of coexisting with nature.

    The reserve is home to a plethora of wildlife, including monkeys, tortoises, and rare birds.

    At this beautiful resort, you can see the famous giant tortoise, play the game of chess, and take a romantic walk around the nature park with monkeys roaming freely.

    Lekki Conservation Center is one of those romantic destinations you can consider if you intend to have a moment with your lover this Valentine.

    Valentine’s season is a period of fun, love, and kindness. Sharing, caring, and giving is another reason why Valentine is a remarkable season. Because it’s a special season and we want you and your partner to spend it in style.

    5. Ikogosi Warm Spring – Ekiti

    Tucked away in the rustic and serene town of Ikogosi-Ekiti, Ikogosi Warm Springs is a nature lover’s dream getaway. It offers the finest tourist attractions with stunning natural beauty that is perfect for lovers that need a romantic getaway in Nigeria. Rekindle the passion as you enjoy a walk on nature’s trail while listening to the enchanting chorus of birds. Spend your afternoon dipping in the hot spring river, cycling through the gardens or exploring the iconic tourist attraction. You are in for a treat here!

    6. The Lagos Motor Boat Club – Lagos

    Lagos Motor Boat Club, located in Ikoyi, Lagos, is the leading boating and yachting club. A romantic trip on the Lagos Lagoon is available from the Lagos Boat Club. The club offers a beautiful perspective of the city as well as a terrific opportunity to spend quality time together.

    Read Also: Create lasting memories this Valentine

    Couples can also enjoy a romantic boat trip, stunning views of Lagos Lagoon and the city skyline, and cool sea air. The boat club offers a genuinely unique and romantic experience, whether you choose to rest on the deck or go for a swim in the sea.

    7. Nike Art Gallery – Lagos

    For art-loving couples, this gallery showcases beautiful Nigerian art and crafts. After exploring, you can head to nearby cozy cafes for a relaxing meal.

    8. La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort – Lagos

    The resort package for a couple is something that truly makes your special someone feel extra special.

    La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort combines an African themed hospitality with modern luxury.

    It is a perfect destination for beach lovers looking for a real romantic getaway.

    The views are simply iconic with the gentle romantic reflection of the setting of the sun upon the calm Atlantic Ocean.

    9. Jabi Boat Club – Abuja

    Enjoy romantic boat rides on Jabi Lake, followed by a candle-lit dinner at the waterfront restaurant. The view of the sunset over the lake is magical.

    10. Epe Resort and Spa – Lagos

    Located at Lekki-Epe Expressway in Lagos, the romantic scenery will definitely sweep you both off your feet. The resort is a combination of both contemporary and traditional style. If you are planning to indulge in a more relaxing atmosphere then this should be on your go-to list. The resort offers exciting sporting activities, spas, including mouth-watering local dishes.

    11. Omu Resort

    Offering an unrivalled Africa safari experience where warm atmosphere, friendly staff and fine cuisine compliment the excellent game viewing.

    Omu Resort is one of the most thrilling getaway destinations for Valentine’s day

    Be ready to see the famous Africa “Big Five” in the zoo, and partake in various activities such as karting, archery, golfing, and much more.

    12. Tarkwa Bay Beach – Lagos

    Accessible by boat, Tarkwa Bay offers a quiet, private beach experience. Pack a picnic and enjoy the sunset together.

    13. Inagbe Grand Resorts and Leisure

    This is one of the most romantic places to spend a memorable Valentine’s Day. Set on the tranquil banks of the magnificent Lagos Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a perfect blend of nature which includes beach and a warm Atlantic sea.

    There’s always fun water sports you can explore and plenty of amenities to get you hooked such as golfing, beach clubs, and a spa. It also boasts of world-class accommodation to round off a perfect day in paradise.3

    14. Sailors Lounge

    A restaurant on the water! Dining at Sailors Lounge, located on Admiralty Rd, Lekki Phase I offers the impression of being on a true ship, cruising towards some magnificent dream. The sunset from the lounge is nothing short of stunning, with a beautiful perspective of the Lekki-Ikoyi link bridge. The cuisine is a little costly, but it’s worth it. Your budget for two people should begin at 30,000 naira.

    15. Lekki Leisure Lake

    If you are hoping for an exciting Valentine’s day, then visit Lekki Leisure Lake. One of the most spectacular lakeside resorts in Nigeria.

    The resort boasts stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean in the Lekki peninsula area. This is a perfect place for thrilling leisure experiences in Nigeria.

    Nothing feels more relaxing than cruising along the serene and tranquil water in a pontoon boat. Make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable by taking part in these exciting activities offered at Lekki Leisure Lake.

    16. La Manga Luxury Beach Villas

    La Manga Luxury Beach Villas seems to be one of the favourite resorts in Lagos. A little piece of paradise nestled along the unspoilt Atlantic Ocean on the beautiful and alluring Island of Ilashe in Lagos. The place is simply stunning! With just a 15-minutes boat ride from Ikoyi and Victoria Island, La Manga Luxury Villas is surrounded by luscious and towering coconut palm trees and boast beautiful views that are sure to elevate the mood of you and your partner. It is an ideal destination to spend Valentine’s Day, with the quiet setting making it a perfect place for lovers’ nests. The resort’s beautiful grounds are vast as well as the number of facilities and activities it has to offer such as jet ski, boat cruise and other water sports.

    17. Millennium Park – Abuja

    A beautifully maintained park perfect for a picnic date. The peaceful environment, fountains, and open green spaces make it ideal for a romantic stroll.

  • Create lasting memories this Valentine

    Create lasting memories this Valentine

    Every 14th February, people celebrate Valentine’s Day by sending messages of love and affection to partners, family and friends. Couples send Valentine’s Day cards and flowers and spend special time together to honour their love for each other.

    In some climes, it is an unofficial holiday, when lovers express their affection with greetings and gifts. Given their similarities, it has been suggested that the holiday has origins in the Roman festival of Lupercalia, held in mid-February. The festival, which celebrated the coming of spring, included fertility rites and the pairing off of women with men by lottery.

    In Nigeria, in spite of the harsh economic situation, Nigerians won’t compromise their Valentine Day celebration on Friday. Like the Detty December celebration that generated over $71.6 million in revenue across tourism, hospitality and entertainment sectors in Lagos state last year, operators of entertainment and hospitality business are gearing up for this year’s Valentine Day celebration.

    Last December, hotels alone accounted for over $44 million, while short-let apartments contributed over $13 million, underscoring Lagos’ immense economic potential as a destination city. One of such facility operators is the Group General Manager Continental Hotels, Mr. Karl Hala, who expressed optimism on the expectation of the hotels this lovers’ day celebration. He disclosed that Lagos and Abuja Continental Hotels are planning big for the Valentine celebration this weekend.

    Read Also: Valentine’s Day: Celebrate responsibly, NACA urges Nigerians

    He said on Valentine’s Day, which is on Friday, the two hotels won’t just be destinations, but ideal canvas for love stories, where couples can create cherished memories that last a lifetime. He added that the hotel will set the stage for cherished moments and timeless memories with exclusive packages designed to ignite romance.

    Among the specially curated offerings at the hotels include Ladi Kwali Sports Village, where guests can enjoy a luxurious pool, state-of-the-art Techno gymnasium for those looking to stay active, the luxury of a late check-out until 3 PM, offering extra time to bask in the serenity of their surroundings, a 30-minute Swedish massage, among others. 

    Mr. Hala said: “Celebrate love this Valentine’s Day at our luxurious hotels in Lagos and Abuja, where romance meets elegance in unforgettable settings. Whether you’re looking for a dreamy weekend escape with indulgent spa treatments and gourmet dining at Abuja Continental, or a captivating getaway with special surprises and live entertainment at Lagos Continental, we have the perfect experience waiting for you. Let us set the stage for cherished moments and timeless memories with exclusive packages designed to ignite romance.”

  • 12 romantic places to visit in Nigeria for Valentine fun

    12 romantic places to visit in Nigeria for Valentine fun

    Despite the high inflation, cash squeeze and high fuel cost, Nigerian couples and lovebirds are determined to celebrate Valentine’s Day with joy and love.

    Valentine’s Day, for every couple, is to relive the unique bond they share, and when someone somewhere finally decides to tell that one special person how much they mean to them.

    Whatever be the case, this day is very significant, and it’s important to spend it in an enjoyable way.

    What’s more enjoyable than traveling or visiting a romantic destination with that special person?

    To help with the decision-making process, here are some suggestions for the perfect romantic spots to visit this Valentine’s Day.

    1. Obudu Mountain Resort

    If you are looking for an amazing romantic destination to celebrate Valentine with your partner, then Obudu Mountain Resort can do the magic for you.

    Obudu Ranch has proven to be the perfect getaway destination. It is located in Calabar, one of the most beautiful states in Nigeria. If you are hoping to reignite the romantic flames between you and your spouse without much distraction, then the Obudu Ranch is perfect for you.

    The alluring atmosphere coupled with a perfect blend of both nature and modernity is certainly the perfect choice for you to celebrate Valentine’s Day.

    This unforgettable travel destination offers fantastic activities such as swimming and cable cars riding.

    Who says proposing to your partner on a cable car ride would be a bad idea?

    2. Whispering Palms

    Beautiful scenery, private zoo, talking parrots… and if you are lucky, you will even get to see a squirrel chasing nuts.

    Whispering Palms is located within the lush tropical landscape, swaying palm trees and pristine beaches of  Badagry.

    Toast your special moment together with an intimate luxury sunset ride on the beach, or indulge in a romantic dinner with your partner while watching the sunset.

    The resorts offer various amenities such as a mini zoo, classic restaurants and comfortable hotel rooms that will definitely enhance the mood throughout your stay.

    This is an ideal destination for those seeking romance or utter relaxation.

    3. Ikogosi Warm Spring

    This romantic destination is a nature lover’s dream getaway. It offers the finest tourist attractions with stunning natural beauty that is perfect for lovers that need a romantic getaway in Nigeria during Valentine or any other occasion.

    Rekindle the passion as you enjoy a walk on nature’s trail while listening to the enchanting chorus of birds. Spend your afternoon dipping in hot spring river, cycling through the gardens or exploring the iconic tourist attraction.

    You are in for a treat here!

    4. The Lagos Motor Boat Club

    Lagos Motor Boat Club, located in Ikoyi, Lagos, is the leading boating and yachting club. A romantic trip on the Lagos Lagoon is available from the Lagos Boat Club. The club offers a beautiful perspective of the city as well as a terrific opportunity to spend quality time together.

    Couples can also enjoy a romantic boat trip, stunning views of Lagos Lagoon and the city skyline, and cool sea air. The boat club offers a genuinely unique and romantic experience, whether you choose to rest on the deck or go for a swim in the sea.

    The outstanding amenities of Lagos Motor Boat Club are another highlight. The club has a variety of services, including a bar, restaurant, and marina, making it ideal for pampering yourself and your loved one. Enjoy a nice lunch, take a stroll around the marina, or simply relax and gaze out over the ocean.

    5. La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort

    The resort package for a couple is something that truly makes your special someone feel extra special.

    La Campagne Tropicana Beach Resort combines an African themed hospitality with modern luxury.

    Read Also: Eight countries that don’t celebrate Valentine’s Day

     A perfect place for nature and beach lovers looking for a real romantic getaway. The views are simply iconic with the gentle romantic reflection of the setting of the sun upon the calm Atlantic Ocean.

    6. Epe Resort and Spa

    The beautiful resort is a combination of both contemporary and traditional style.

    If you are planning to indulge in a more relaxing atmosphere then this should be on your go-to list. The resort offers exciting sporting activities, spas, including mouth-watering local dishes.

    7. Omu Resort

    Offering an unrivalled Africa safari experience where warm atmosphere, friendly staff and fine cuisine compliment the excellent game viewing.

    Omu Resort is one of the most thrilling getaway destinations for Valentine’s day.

    Be ready to see the famous Africa “Big Five” in the zoo, and partake in various activities such as karting, archery, golfing, and much more.

    8. La Manga Luxury Beach Villas

    A little piece of paradise nestled along the unspoilt Atlantic Ocean on the beautiful and alluring Island of Ilashe in Lagos.

    The place is simply stunning!

    With just a 15-minutes boat ride from Ikoyi and Victoria Island, La Manga Luxury Villas is surrounded by luscious and towering coconut palm trees and boasts beautiful views that are sure to elevate the mood of you and your partner.

    It is an ideal destination to spend Valentine’s Day, with the quiet setting making it a perfect place for lovers nest.

    The resort’s beautiful grounds are vast as well as the number of facilities and activities it has to offer such as jet ski, boat cruise, and other water sports.

    9. Inagbe Grand Resorts and Leisure

    This is one of the most romantic places to spend a memorable Valentine’s Day. Set on the tranquil banks of the magnificent Lagos Lagoon and the Atlantic Ocean, it offers a perfect blend of nature which includes beach and a warm Atlantic sea.

    There’s always fun water sports you can explore and plenty of amenities to get you hooked such as golfing, beach clubs, and a spa. It also boasts of world-class accommodation to round off a perfect day in paradise.

    10. Lekki Leisure Lake

    If you are hoping for an exciting Valentine’s day, then visit Lekki Leisure Lake. One of the most spectacular lakeside resorts in Nigeria.

    The resort boasts stunning panoramic views of the Atlantic Ocean in the Lekki peninsula area. This is a perfect place for thrilling leisure experiences in Nigeria.

    Nothing feels more relaxing than cruising along the serene and tranquil water in a pontoon boat. Make your Valentine’s Day unforgettable by taking part in these exciting activities offered at Lekki Leisure Lake.

    11. Lekki Conservation Center

    Founded in 1990 by the Nigerian Conservation Foundation, the Lekki Conservation Center preserves a large part of the region’s biodiverse coastal ecosystem and educates visitors on the importance of coexisting with nature.

    The reserve is home to a plethora of wildlife, including monkeys, tortoises, and rare birds.

    At this beautiful resort, you can see the famous giant tortoise, play the game of chess, take a romantic walk around the nature park with monkeys roaming freely.

    Lekki Conservation Center is one of those romantic destinations you can consider if you intend to have a moment with your lover this Valentine.

    Valentine’s season is a period of fun, love, and kindness. Sharing, caring, and giving is another reason why Valentine is a remarkable season. Because it’s a special season and we want you and your partner to spend it in style

    12. Sailors Lounge

    A restaurant on the water! Dining at Sailors Lounge, located on Admiralty Rd, Lekki Phase I offers the impression of being on a true ship, cruising towards some magnificent dream. The sunset from the lounge is nothing short of stunning, with a beautiful perspective of the Lekki-Ikoyi link bridge. The cuisine is a little costly, but it’s worth it. Your budget for two people should begin at 15,000 naira.

  • Our plans for Valentine’s Day

    Our plans for Valentine’s Day

    • By Aisha Adebayo

    We are just a few days away from Valentine’s Day. Usually, a time when lovers, family, and friends express their affection with greetings and gifts.

    Interestingly, Valentine’s Day did not come to be celebrated as a day of romance until about the 14th century. Although there were several Christian martyrs  named Valentine, the day may have taken its name from a priest who was martyred about 270 CE by the emperor ClaudiusII Gothicus.

    Formal messages, or valentines,  appeared in the 1500s, and by the late 1700s, commercially printed cards were being used. The first commercial valentines in the United States were printed in the mid-1800s. Valentines commonly depict Cupid the Roman god of love, along with hearts, traditionally the seat of emotion.

    The celebration has expanded to expressions of affection among relatives and friends. Many, especially the young are excited by the euphoria created.

    AMANDA Luke, a student of the Federal Polytechnic,  ilaro in Ogun state is super excited. She takes you into her world and her expectations this year. “ As a student, Valentine’s Day can be a fun and special time, but it can also bring up some mixed feelings too.  For some students or anybody it continues to be a great day to celebrate love and friendship with peers, friends, and family”.

    Amanda continues: “ Conversely, it can also be a time to feel left out or alone if you don’t have a romantic partner. Some students or a person may also feel pressure to spend money on gifts or go out to expensive restaurants, which can be stressful if they are on a tight budget. Overall, I strongly believe that it should be a day that can bring up a variety of emotions for students, families, friends, couples, etc depending on their circumstances”.

    Ogunmoyede Isaac is based in Ilaro and he tells you that being a weekday, it will be a very busy day but he has lined up some activities to make the day memorable. “I will be in school receiving lectures and going to classes, but I will send love to my loved ones. It could be a text message or a call”.

     Isaac adds: “Valentine’s Day is all about love for one another so let’s spread love not hate. I would like to spend the day hanging out with my guys, chilling, talking about similar interests, and having fun.

     Ajayi Akinsola Martins is also looking forward to celebrating the day in style. You want to know the type of gifts he is expecting and he responds this way: “Memories and laughter first then any other kind of gift can come on”.

    He added: “I feel that Valentine’s is a day where we celebrate life and love. It is very important to be constantly happy with the people around you. It is also another opportunity to give ourselves reasons to let go of grudges and make a new beginning based on genuine love towards the people around you”. 

    Like Martins, Samuel Akinde advises that spreading love is a way of creating a peaceful and loving environment that is infectious. “I have always wanted to spend Valentine’s Day with my entire family, the whole extended family, it has never happened though, but I hope one day it will”.

    Samuel takes you happily into his world :

    “It’s for lovers and maybe friends . Personally, I just want to go somewhere special with my girlfriend I don’t expect gifts but a wristwatch would be cool”.

    For Akinode Temiloluwa Abosede, the day has come to stay and has a way of impacting lives and creating business opportunities for many.  “Valentine’s Day for me is a special day for people with similar interests. Here, you are expected to express their deepest feelings and appreciation through the use of love messages via cards/letters, flower bouquets, gifts, and other forms of intimate expression”.

    Read Also: Soludo, Kefas, Nnamani, Uba, others in Anambra for Offor’s birthday

    He continued: “I am super excited. I just want to show appreciation to those who loved me in the past few months. This includes my lover by showing affection and melting my heart. It’s been awesome and my life has been great thanks to their presence”.

    On her part, Busari Oluwafeyifunmi Victor, a Computer Science student at the Bells University of Technology should be an opportunity to embrace self-love. “There is so much to look out for this year. I think it is a celebration of affection, a day to spread love and kindness. Amidst the hustle of priorities and the solo journey I am on right now, I have decided to embrace self-love”.

     She adds that it is a day for her to indulge in a bit of pampering and self-care, a reminder that love starts within. As for gifts, the sentiment is what truly matters. It’s the thoughtfulness behind the gesture that speaks volumes, and I cherish that wholeheartedly no matter the size.

    It’s a day to celebrate love and show appreciation to your special someone”, says Olawunmi Quawiat Boluwatife. “Some people exchange gifts, go on romantic dates, or simply spend quality time together. It’s a great opportunity to express your feelings and make your loved ones feel special. To be very honest I have no plans. Well, If there is any anonymous man that wants to bless me with gifts kindly get me perfumes, I love perfumes or any dress in black”.

  • VALENTINE FOR WIDOWS

    It was a time to empower, relive Valentine’s fond memories and generally have fun for widows last week, as Head High International Organisation held its 17th Valentine’s Love Feast for Widows. Omolara Akintoye reports

    I’M short of words, in fact I never knew that someone out there could remember me, God bless the organisers of this programme”. These were the words of Mrs. Folashade Salvador, a young widow who lost her husband few months ago, as she was being empowered with cash gift and pop-corn making machine.

    Mrs. Salvador, who lost her husband two years after they got married, was one of the five widows who benefitted from cash gifts courtesy, Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation. Start-up equipment such as pepper-grinding machine, Popcorn making machine and fabrics were among the things given out, courtesy Head High International.

    Making the presentation at the occasion, the Commissioner for Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Lagos State, Dr. Lola Akande, enjoined the beneficiaries to invest the money and equipment on profitable ventures.

    “Be focused, don’t organise pity party, don’t be embittered, brace up for hard work’ she said.

    Akande, who was represented by the Director, Admin. & Human Resources, Mrs. Funmi Blaise, charged widows who are to not doing anything at the moment, to attend its Skill Acquisition Centers nearest to them, where they can be empowered with free skills. “Once you are empowered, you can take care of your children and send them to the best schools”, Blaise said.

    Valentine’s Day is one of those emotional landmines every widow must navi gate. If your grief is fresh, it’s a heart-wrenching reminder of what you’ve lost. Later, when the initial shock and grief wears off, it can still leave you feeling wistful and empty. While others look forward to Valentine’s Day with excitement, for these women, the day casts a smear on their joy because it is a reminder of fond memories they once shared with their husbands.

    While some are still brooding, others have in a way turned their grief into something of worth. In its effort to encourage this group of women to keep their heads lifted up, Head High International Organisation said it was an opportunity to reach out to widows. Speaking on why it organises love feast every February for women and children, the Executive Director, Head High Organisation, Pastor (Mrs.) Tinu Odugbemi, at this year’s 17th edition, held in Lagos, said it is a way of reaching out to, comforting, strengthening and embracing those who might miss their loved ones at a time like this. “It is a time to meet old friends, make new ones, wind down and enjoy, as well as reconstruct love in expression and in pattern; a time to emphasise true love,’ she said.

    Odugbemi also enjoined politicians and religious leaders to endorse policies that will improve the lots of widows, single parents, and orphans. “It is time to be more decisive and proactive in taking care of the less privileged, it is time to empower them body soul and spirit.”

    She added that the organisation is doing all it could to set up a Skill Acquisition Centre, while also using the opportunity to call on government and well-meaning Nigerians to align with the organisation. This, she pointed out, was a follow-up to the demand by the target group for a place to meet regularly and in response to the biting economic challenges.

    “Our women and their children are not lazy, they are willing to work, they only need the necessary support and conducive environment”, she said.

    It was also an opportunity for some of the widows to relive their experiences, especially during Valentine before their husband passed on.

    Mrs. Modupe Adeogun, who lost her husband 20 years ago, said it was the grace of God that makes way for her, while Mrs. Gladys Yesufu said she had to change the structure of her house in order to forget the memories of her husband. Her words “There is a particular area in my house that if I and my husband meet each other there, anything can happen, be it tapping, kissing and so on. I had to change the structure of that area to wipe off the memory.”

    Other side attractions on the fun-filled day included cutting of the Valentine cake, games and talent showcase. Over 2000 widows attended the event.

  • Tears of Joy…

    IT is just a few days after Valentine and Thelma is still basking in the euphoria of the season. This is indeed the best valentine ever, filled with memories she cannot trade for anything. As a matter of fact, the icing on the emotional cake is this beautiful engagement ring. It looks and feels so good, glittering all the way.

    The love of her life made it so memorable by proposing to her on Valentine’s Day. It was indeed a day to remember; a day filled with surprises which brought tears of joy her way. The tears rolled down her checks continuously and she just could not hold back the tears and the way she felt about it. As her mind riveted to how it all started and how she almost lost this precious heart.

    Flashback to her emotional corridor and she remembers the ordeal she went through trying to find the bone of her bones. It was as elusive as passing through the proverbial needle’s eye.

    After a long while, she finally found her type of man and the relationship has been very interesting and memorable in every sense of the word. Dedication, determination and passion kept them going. “We met at a shopping mall. On that fateful day, I was in a very bad mood because everything around me was crumbling. Instead of getting depressed, I decided to step out to get my mind off the emotional matter. It turned out to be a very interesting move, away from heart aches and depression. I saw a lot of new things, creative pieces and realised that it was indeed time to move on.”

    She continued: “I bought a number of new things and realised that the best emotional therapy is to make yourself happy. I also gave myself a treat in the restaurant. It was one of the best meals ever; I can’t remember ever spending that much on a meal.”

    Interestingly, Danladi was in the restaurant on that fateful day. He kept wondering what this beautiful lady was doing hanging out alone in that corner. He finally joined her on the table and that was how their magical experience began. “Even though I liked him, I realised that he can be temperamental sometimes. That was something I wasn’t sure I could cope with. Surprisingly, we got along very well.”

    The unique part of the lovebirds was that they actually shared a lot in common. “We dated for months and we became closer and closer. The only snag was that I kept some of the things about my past secret. I wasn’t sure he was going to be happy about the things I did then.”

    Just when she thought the emotional battle had been won, an intruder surfaced. “Suddenly, I realised that Banji found his way back into my life. He kept dropping messages, calling me as well as sending all kinds of text messages. I told him point blank that it was over and it was at that point that he got really desperate.”

    Blackmail! Yes, that was the last resort and he did everything to make Danladi change his mind about their relationship. The battle line was drawn and just when she thought it was all over, Danladi gave her another opportunity. “He was really angry that I kept so much away from him. He told me never to do that again, there is no point keeping a secret; ‘I love you and that is all that matters.’”

    Even though Danladi has forgiven yours truly, I was visibly shaken by the fact that I could have lost the love of my life. I don’t even know if I would have coped if he walked away. Now, I have learnt my lesson. It is better to come to a relationship with your cards on the table. What would be would definitely be.

    The truth of the matter is that many keep secrets from the hearts they claim to love. When the bubble burst, all hell is let loose and the centre usually cannot hold in most cases. The crux of the matter here is that, if you keep something secret, it’s because you fear the impact that the information might have if it were openly known.

    Most times, what underlies secrecy is a fear of judgment or reprisal. Unfortunately, when your secrecy is violated, you may just lose

    control over the information and how the heart you cherish and others will ultimately react to it when the chips are down. This sadly takes many to a delicate stage of feeling sad, afraid, anxious, concerned, betrayed, angry, and just want to walk away.

    This leads directly to the issue of infidelity. For many, infidelity can be a highly subjective endeavour except for one constant: Infidelity, experts opine, always involves the keeping of important sexual and romantic secrets. Fear, interestingly, is always at the centre of it all.

  • Sanwo-Olu celebrates valentine with Lagosians

    Lagos State governorship candidate of the All Progressives Congress (APC) Babajide Sanwo-Olu yesterday marked the Valentine’s Day with residents at an event tagged “A Passion to Serve”.

    The event held in five locations – Abule Egba, Festac, Ikeja, Surulere, and Tafawa Balewa Square (TBS).

    Sanwo-Olu, with his running mate, Dr. Obafemi Hamzat, promised their commitment to birth a greater Lagos that would ensure the prosperity of residents. He also shared roses and other gifts with attendees.

    The campaign featured music, dance competitions and pretty ladies in red, addressed as ‘Sanwo Angels’, handing out roses to Lagosians.

    At Ikeja, Sanwo-Olu reiterated that health, cleaner and safer environment, traffic management and transportation, security, as well as improved economy, would be prioritised among other laudable programmes his administration would offer the people.

    He said: “From the creative energies of our youths, the spirit of enterprise in our land, to the wisdom of our elders, I am persuaded a greater Lagos is possible. There could not have been a better day for me to tell you of my love to serve you than today.”

    The candidate promised that his administration will be committed to reducing travel time and increasing per capita productivity for Lagosians by improving infrastructures, such as road, rail and water transportation.

    “Our major healthcare plan is to improve access and affordability through comprehensive health insurance and improve primary and secondary health facilities. And for our environment, LAWMA’s waste management system will be upgraded for better service delivery, while we implement measures to turn waste to wealth and ensure a clean and healthy environment in Lagos,” he added.

     

  • Valentine: BA extends romance to travellers

    As part of this year’s valentine celebration, British Airways has announced attractive return fares to London with offers as low as $169 in Economy Class and $2009 in Business Class.

    The airline says the Valentine incentive is for customers travelling the Lagos – London route or the Abuja – London route.

    According to Kola Olayinka, British Airways Regional Manager for West Africa, this is meant to spur customers to create new moment and spend time with their loved ones: “In the spirit of the valentine season, British Airways wants to show appreciation to its customers hence these promotional fares. We want them to create new moment as they travel this season and spend time with their loved ones,” he said.

    He explained that the offer, which ends on February 28, 2019 are available for outbound travel between now and March 24, 2019, with a minimum stay of three days and maximum stay of 12 months.

    The international flag carrier in the United Kingdom, recently celebrated a hundred years of operation with style.

  • Re: Valentine in the age of ‘Digisexuals’

    Your article of February 14 refers. I get what you say about the robot lovers, but you also have to see it in the light of the modern era. Modern women, especially western educated women steeped in toxic feminism, have made it difficult for men of caliber to enjoy their love life. They have been conditioned to be promiscuous and also have a career. So either they become gold-diggers who are after your money but provide nothing else, or they are rabid man-haters that are willing to take you down to prove their point.

    Men can live without the emotional part. That they can get from their other relationships or an adventurous life. If they are able to satisfy their lust without being blackmailed by a jealous woman, getting diseases because their sexual partners lie or having their careers destroyed, they are more likely to go for robotic partners that can give them all the sex they want without the cash draining. It also means men no longer need to chase women and they will definitely have its effects.

    I am not condoning this change but don’t forget that for years, western society has been preaching promiscuity and we in other parts of the world have been lapping it up without considering its effects. We cannot start crying wolf now when we did not do enough to combat the destruction of our values on the altar of economic advance. We taught men and women to be promiscuous and it caused the destruction of the nuclear and extended family. Why would the products of such broken homes not come out even worse. No use crying over spilt milk and defend what you have left.

     

    • Anonymous

    In conclusion, culture tends to move in cycles: from Bondage to Spiritual Growth to Liberty to Abundance to Complacency to Apathy to Dependence back to Bondage. Our current global civilization has moved past Apathy and Dependence and is moving to Bondage. We have entered a stage of moral and economic decline that signals the end of the empire. The best we can do is pray that we are not swept over in the current.