Showing posts with label Edition 221. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Edition 221. Show all posts
Thursday, 28 January 2010
Nigerian student, Raolat, heads Howard’s College of Medicine healthcentre for the less-privileged
By Martins OwenRAOLAT Abdulai, a fourth-year medical student in Howard University College of Medicine, says attending a conference on how to organise student-run clinics changed her life.
The conference taught her about fundraising and networking with other organisations, and also allowed her to return to school to spearhead efforts to establish Howard’s first student-run health centre.
The New Freedmen’s Clinic housed in the Family Medical Group Office, Towers Building, is run by students of the College of Medicine for the low-income earners, uninsured individuals and other less privileged people.
Officially opened in June 2009, the clinic has a Nigerian, Raolat Abdulai, from Lagos State as the medical director.
In 2008, more than 3,000 women applied to a joint project between Oprah Winfrey’s magazine O and The White House Project, a national non-profit organisation working to advance women’s leadership role. The initiative, entitled Women Rule, provided training for a selected group of women leaders, to bring their dreams to fruition.
Abdulai and 79 others were selected to attend the three-day leadership-training workshop in New York, where they learnt how to write business plan, negotiate, build teams and organise themselves and others.
In addition to receiving $4,000 in alumni donations, the clinic applied and won a $30,000 grant from the Association of American Medical Colleges. The money will be largely spent on medical supplies and to pay fees. Already, the staff are working on acquiring samples from pharmaceutical companies to help conserve money.
The clinic is not only a boon for the less privileged, but also serves as a training ground for first and second year medical students. Howard University Hospital physicians are always on hand to oversee the students’ work.
Abdulai says she would ultimately like to see the clinic expand to other areas of the city. “It’s been the greatest balancing act of my life,” she says.
Sunday, 24 January 2010
Obebe… the foto man!
Yinka Obebe is responsible for the content on Nigezie. He is also a great hand when it comes to photography. He speaks on his life, job and everything. Kenneth Oliko sounds him out: Who is Yinka Obebe?
I was born in the 80s somewhere in the northern part of Nigeria, Kainji, New Bussa, to be precise. I attended NEPA Senior Staff School, Government College Ibadan, Federal Government College, Minna, and I hold a Bachelor’s degree in engineering (electrical) from the University of Ilorin. I like to describe myself, as proactive and intensely passionate, not because it sounds like a cool way to describe myself, but I have come to know this is me and I am stuck with myself, so what can I do?
How long have you worked with Nigezie?
Well, adding up my initial working years, excluding the MIA period, (yep I left at a point) and the present, (since I got back). I guess it’s been about three years.
Describe your work?
My work is pretty simple but it gets a little complicated in delivery. I manage the creative and production system at Nigezie and other platforms owned by Virtual Media Network. I’m involved all the way from conception to birth — creating new ones, producing the existing shows, overseeing its production and post production as well as creative direction for branding them and the channel as a whole. I also get to prepare proposals and hold meetings with clients or potential sponsors with regards to new shows like every producer should, this and more, as they relate to the creative and production side of the organisation. In addition, I double in the HR department (well, if you would call it that), but to me I’d say I simply shop from time to time for young, creative, skilled and motivated individuals, bring them into the team, from presenters to editors, and so on so we can get the job done.
Tell us more about Yinka Obebe Photography?
This is a strong thing o; I can sit with you all day talking about it. Simply put, it is an attempt at expressing an essential and ‘a so close to my heart’ part of me. It is a creative company that offers photography services. Our forte is fashion and art photography and we like to work only when the assignment is interesting.
Who have you worked with (some of the people you have photographed)?
Who I have photographed to me may not be the most interesting part of my photographic life, but if you had asked what images I have made, I would not say a work but take you out to lunch and probably bore you with my images. No I will share the best part of my existence with you! But you asked for names, so, I’d say most recently, it’s been Timi Dakolo for his singles and Tuface Idibia for his album cover. I am not allowed to say too much about that.
What are the challenges you face everyday mixing your photography work with your day job?
The interesting part of the two is that they are cousins — brothers from the same mother. Have I mixed it up? Okay, they are brothers and sisters, so, I can say I don’t face any challenges in terms of inspiration or thought process, but I wish I could clone myself or better still, buy surrogates and operate both lives simultaneously.
How do you reconcile all of this with family life?
The word ‘family life’ still startles me a bit; I mean, I have been married for only a few months, but it’s real and it’s true that ‘he that finds a wife, finds a good thing and obtains favour from the lord’. My wife is the best that has happened to me till date. Yes! I have to work harder and expand my income, plus drive or walk looking straight ahead and politely sensor ‘some phone calls’. The fact remains I am now responsible for a whole human being and very soon will be responsible for a young man with the mandate to mentor him. This has forced me to think back the other way, as I should have. As for work, it’s not a problem, as I am now the bionic man and my family is my steroid.
Did you receive any formal training in photography?
Who dash me? I thought the question was did you try to get any formal education? I did try. I guess I can still recite all the photography schools in America, London and even India. It was either too expensive, bank wasn’t lending or I didn’t have any collateral. So, to answer your question, no I did not have any formal training. If buying old Vogues, Elle and XXL at Marina or gisting and travelling with Kelechi Amadi Obi are forms of education, then I would say I did have some education.
How were you able to become so good at your work?
Become so good? That sounds so cool, my head is swelling o. I look at foreign magazines, consume the Internet, was inspired by Kelechi Amadi Obi and above all I believe in myself and never for one moment doubt that I had the eye, yes, the eye.
5 Nigerian universities qualify for Zain Africa Season IV
BY TOPE TEMPLER OLAIYA
FIVE Nigerian universities have qualified to represent the country at the Zain Africa Challenge— the continent’s television quiz show involving 32 universities.
The institutions that qualified for Season IV of the quiz competition include the defending champions, University of Ibadan (UI); University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN); University of Abuja; University of Maiduguri and University of Jos (UNIJOS). The five schools will compete against 27 others from across Africa. The event is scheduled to hold in Kampala, Uganda, later in the year.
The schools emerged tops after a highly competitive National Qualifying Tournament (NQT) held at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, on January 6, involving 16 universities across Nigeria.
The National Universities Commission (NUC) selected the 16 universities, which participated in the NQT. They included Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Bowen University; Federal University of Technology, Owerri and Katsina State University (now Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina).
Others were Niger Delta University; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife; University of Abuja; Ambrose Ali University; University of Calabar; University of Jos; University of Maiduguri; Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi; Federal University of Technology, Akure; University of Nigeria, Nsukka; University of Lagos, Akoka and University of Ibadan.
Speaking at the NQT, Emeka Oparah, Zain’s Head of Public Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility said the competition is a tangible expression of company’s philosophy of “a wonderful world”, which underlines its relationship with its customers.
Oparah added that it was a special experience that Nigeria, in its first participation in the tournament last year, brought home the winners’ trophy, adding that the country’s representatives this year has all it takes to win the trophy back-to-back.
UI graduates resume Law School in April
By Kayode Bello
Following the intervention of the Faculty of Law and the authorities of the University of Ibadan, the Law graduates, who previously had their hopes dashed over resumption at the Law School in November last year, will now resume in April.
The Sub-dean of the faculty, Mr. Sunday Fagbemi, told Life Campus that a letter had been sent to the Registrar of the institution, Mrs. Ikotun Omotayo, stating that the Council of Legal Education has accepted to admit the Law graduates in the institution on April 10, 2010.
Prior to the letter by the Council of Legal Education, the Dean of the faculty, Prof. Yemisi Bamgbose, had expressed optimism that the students would be mobilized for Law School to prevent a huge backlog of graduates.
In a related development, graduates of the institution still awaiting mobilization call-up from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) directorate were seen checking their call-up
Corps members commit gifts to community service
By FISAYO SOYOMBO
Citizens cannot completely saddle government with the challenge of solving the various problems confronting education.
This belief was the motivation behind the decision of some members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), under the aegis of Integrated Rural Development (IRD), to donate gift items to students and staff of Gaskiya Secondary School, Ijora at a brief ceremony in the premises of the school last week. The school received ten white marker boards while 50 students – selected based on outstanding academic performance – received packages containing notebooks, pencils and pens.
Speaking at the event, President of IRD, Adeniyi Adejobi, said “We decided to come to Gaskiya, in the heart of Ajegunle, which is a remote area. We know that schools in cities have almost all the basic things. You would not believe that in this age, Gaskiya still uses blackboards. We know that by presenting these items, the students would be motivated to study harder and members of staff too would be encouraged to work better; because despite all the problems of education, they would be getting the impression that help is not far away,” he explained.
Principal of the school, Mrs. Nworgu, commended the IRD members; saying with the gesture, these secondary students would begin to appreciate the essence of NYSC and would also aspire to be corps members someday. She also noted that the students would begin to realize that dedication to excellence doesn’t go unnoticed and unrewarded. She therefore opposed calls from some quarters, calling for the scrapping of the NYSC due to crises, which have in the past, claimed lives of innocent youths. “No. I don’t agree. Death will always occur, NYSC or no NYSC. I do not think it is a reason to scrap NYSC,” she pleaded.
Conspiracy against Students’ Union in UI?
BY ABRAHAM OLADIPUPO
THE legal feud between Mr. Akeem Lawal (aka Aluta) and the University of Ibadan, leading to the suspension of elections and other activities of the Students’ Union in the school for a decade, came up for hearing at the Federal High Court, Abeokuta, on Monday, January 18, with the two parties absent in court.
The Students’ Union Transition Committee had traveled from Ibadan to Abeokuta, with the hope that the day’s hearing would mark the end of the legal tussle, thereby, leading to reinstating the union, but to their surprise, the lawyers representing both parties in the case were not in court.
Suspecting foul play, the students called Mr. Lawal, who said the judge presiding over the case had been transferred to Lagos. When prodded further, he claimed he was in the court premises the week earlier to receive a notice that he had been invited to court, when he discovered that the judge had been transferred. He, however, referred the students to the university’s legal representative for further information.
However, the said judge was on seat at the Abeokuta court and all staff were surprised of the rumour of the judge having been transferred.
Suspecting a conspiracy between the management and Aluta, the students called the institution’s lawyer, but his number was not available, even as at press time.
The dejected students returned to Ibadan wondering why parties to the case failed to show up in court.
The questions then are: Is this an attempt to put SUG in UI on hold? Why did the lawyers fail to show up in court? Why were the students advised to face their studies and forget about the court case? Why did the school authorities stop releasing information about the progress of the court case? Why is Akeem Lawal still pushing the case after 10 years? These questions are begging for answers.
ucjpublicrelationsofficer@gmail.com
FIVE Nigerian universities have qualified to represent the country at the Zain Africa Challenge— the continent’s television quiz show involving 32 universities.
The institutions that qualified for Season IV of the quiz competition include the defending champions, University of Ibadan (UI); University of Nigeria Nsukka (UNN); University of Abuja; University of Maiduguri and University of Jos (UNIJOS). The five schools will compete against 27 others from across Africa. The event is scheduled to hold in Kampala, Uganda, later in the year.
The schools emerged tops after a highly competitive National Qualifying Tournament (NQT) held at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja, on January 6, involving 16 universities across Nigeria.
The National Universities Commission (NUC) selected the 16 universities, which participated in the NQT. They included Ahmadu Bello University, Zaria; Bowen University; Federal University of Technology, Owerri and Katsina State University (now Musa Yar’Adua University, Katsina).
Others were Niger Delta University; Obafemi Awolowo University, Ile Ife; University of Abuja; Ambrose Ali University; University of Calabar; University of Jos; University of Maiduguri; Abubakar Tafawa Balewa University, Bauchi; Federal University of Technology, Akure; University of Nigeria, Nsukka; University of Lagos, Akoka and University of Ibadan.
Speaking at the NQT, Emeka Oparah, Zain’s Head of Public Relations and Corporate Social Responsibility said the competition is a tangible expression of company’s philosophy of “a wonderful world”, which underlines its relationship with its customers.
Oparah added that it was a special experience that Nigeria, in its first participation in the tournament last year, brought home the winners’ trophy, adding that the country’s representatives this year has all it takes to win the trophy back-to-back.
UI graduates resume Law School in April
By Kayode Bello
Following the intervention of the Faculty of Law and the authorities of the University of Ibadan, the Law graduates, who previously had their hopes dashed over resumption at the Law School in November last year, will now resume in April.
The Sub-dean of the faculty, Mr. Sunday Fagbemi, told Life Campus that a letter had been sent to the Registrar of the institution, Mrs. Ikotun Omotayo, stating that the Council of Legal Education has accepted to admit the Law graduates in the institution on April 10, 2010.
Prior to the letter by the Council of Legal Education, the Dean of the faculty, Prof. Yemisi Bamgbose, had expressed optimism that the students would be mobilized for Law School to prevent a huge backlog of graduates.
In a related development, graduates of the institution still awaiting mobilization call-up from the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) directorate were seen checking their call-up
Corps members commit gifts to community service
By FISAYO SOYOMBO
Citizens cannot completely saddle government with the challenge of solving the various problems confronting education.
This belief was the motivation behind the decision of some members of the National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), under the aegis of Integrated Rural Development (IRD), to donate gift items to students and staff of Gaskiya Secondary School, Ijora at a brief ceremony in the premises of the school last week. The school received ten white marker boards while 50 students – selected based on outstanding academic performance – received packages containing notebooks, pencils and pens.
Speaking at the event, President of IRD, Adeniyi Adejobi, said “We decided to come to Gaskiya, in the heart of Ajegunle, which is a remote area. We know that schools in cities have almost all the basic things. You would not believe that in this age, Gaskiya still uses blackboards. We know that by presenting these items, the students would be motivated to study harder and members of staff too would be encouraged to work better; because despite all the problems of education, they would be getting the impression that help is not far away,” he explained.
Principal of the school, Mrs. Nworgu, commended the IRD members; saying with the gesture, these secondary students would begin to appreciate the essence of NYSC and would also aspire to be corps members someday. She also noted that the students would begin to realize that dedication to excellence doesn’t go unnoticed and unrewarded. She therefore opposed calls from some quarters, calling for the scrapping of the NYSC due to crises, which have in the past, claimed lives of innocent youths. “No. I don’t agree. Death will always occur, NYSC or no NYSC. I do not think it is a reason to scrap NYSC,” she pleaded.
Conspiracy against Students’ Union in UI?
BY ABRAHAM OLADIPUPO
THE legal feud between Mr. Akeem Lawal (aka Aluta) and the University of Ibadan, leading to the suspension of elections and other activities of the Students’ Union in the school for a decade, came up for hearing at the Federal High Court, Abeokuta, on Monday, January 18, with the two parties absent in court.
The Students’ Union Transition Committee had traveled from Ibadan to Abeokuta, with the hope that the day’s hearing would mark the end of the legal tussle, thereby, leading to reinstating the union, but to their surprise, the lawyers representing both parties in the case were not in court.
Suspecting foul play, the students called Mr. Lawal, who said the judge presiding over the case had been transferred to Lagos. When prodded further, he claimed he was in the court premises the week earlier to receive a notice that he had been invited to court, when he discovered that the judge had been transferred. He, however, referred the students to the university’s legal representative for further information.
However, the said judge was on seat at the Abeokuta court and all staff were surprised of the rumour of the judge having been transferred.
Suspecting a conspiracy between the management and Aluta, the students called the institution’s lawyer, but his number was not available, even as at press time.
The dejected students returned to Ibadan wondering why parties to the case failed to show up in court.
The questions then are: Is this an attempt to put SUG in UI on hold? Why did the lawyers fail to show up in court? Why were the students advised to face their studies and forget about the court case? Why did the school authorities stop releasing information about the progress of the court case? Why is Akeem Lawal still pushing the case after 10 years? These questions are begging for answers.
ucjpublicrelationsofficer@gmail.com
Gym Put-offs
IT takes a lot of discipline and determination to attend the gym regularly and stay on till the end so as to achieve the desired result.
The reasons for failure on the part of some gym attendees vary. These range from distance to the rigour involved and time factor. Those who are able to persist till the very end, however, soon discover that working out regularly at the gym becomes an interesting and even enjoyable venture. At this stage, it becomes somehow difficult to let go.
Such is the case with William Bassey, a fitness buff who patronises a reputable gym on Victoria Island.
“Initially, it was very tough keeping to the schedule at the gym,” Bassey recalls. “I’m a businessman and so has many things to do. Twenty-four hours is not enough to attend to all the programmes I have in one day. As a matter of fact, we were four friends that enrolled but the others have since stopped coming because of the pressure and some other reasons.”
Bassey had to carry on with the daily workout when his doctor informed him that he needed to dislodge some of the fat accumulated in his mid-section and which was indirectly affecting his heart. With this frightening situation confronting him, he was forced to register at a nearby gym after discussing with a professional trainer on how to deal with the problem.
“I won’t tell you it has been easy but along the line, I have settled down into the programme and I’m even beginning to enjoy it. Before I started here, I was weighing over 110kg. Now, I weigh a healthy 85kg, which is very okay for my height. I don’t joke with my exercise routine and I no longer find the schedule tedious or rigorous. It has become a part of my daily schedule,” he enthuses.
Beatrice on her part came to the gym purposely to firm up her thighs, stomach and hips. She was advised to do so by a friend who had had a previous experience of the many benefits of attending a gym. Is she noticing any difference? “Yes, there is a lot of difference between how I was looking then and now. Although I started three months ago, I can say confidently that I’m feeling and looking better.
“Initially though, I wasn’t quite sure I would get positive result and also it wasn’t that easy. But the trainer encouraged me. He also made the whole thing interesting by introducing me to some other things on the side. Right now, I don’t need external motivation. The compliments I’m getting from everywhere and the way I feel are enough to keep me on,” she says.
David Ogbeide, a trainer at the gym enumerates some of the factors hindering gym attendees from coming regularly even after they must have registered to include lack of determination and will to see it through, impatience, time and the inability to see the act of working out as an essential part of living.
“You will be surprised to know that some people enroll for a whole year, which is quite some money. They pay all the fees up-front but then, they don’t turn up for the exercise. They attribute this to lack of time and pressures from other areas of their lives. But I can tell you it is because they haven’t come to realise that being fit and in top shape is also a very important aspect of life.”
Perhaps one of the best ways to sustain interest is to attend with a spouse or a close friend. As explained by Ogbeide, when people have a loved one also working out in the same gym, they feel motivated, more relaxed and focus better. The interest can be quite high in such situation.
The reasons for failure on the part of some gym attendees vary. These range from distance to the rigour involved and time factor. Those who are able to persist till the very end, however, soon discover that working out regularly at the gym becomes an interesting and even enjoyable venture. At this stage, it becomes somehow difficult to let go.
Such is the case with William Bassey, a fitness buff who patronises a reputable gym on Victoria Island.
“Initially, it was very tough keeping to the schedule at the gym,” Bassey recalls. “I’m a businessman and so has many things to do. Twenty-four hours is not enough to attend to all the programmes I have in one day. As a matter of fact, we were four friends that enrolled but the others have since stopped coming because of the pressure and some other reasons.”
Bassey had to carry on with the daily workout when his doctor informed him that he needed to dislodge some of the fat accumulated in his mid-section and which was indirectly affecting his heart. With this frightening situation confronting him, he was forced to register at a nearby gym after discussing with a professional trainer on how to deal with the problem.
“I won’t tell you it has been easy but along the line, I have settled down into the programme and I’m even beginning to enjoy it. Before I started here, I was weighing over 110kg. Now, I weigh a healthy 85kg, which is very okay for my height. I don’t joke with my exercise routine and I no longer find the schedule tedious or rigorous. It has become a part of my daily schedule,” he enthuses.
Beatrice on her part came to the gym purposely to firm up her thighs, stomach and hips. She was advised to do so by a friend who had had a previous experience of the many benefits of attending a gym. Is she noticing any difference? “Yes, there is a lot of difference between how I was looking then and now. Although I started three months ago, I can say confidently that I’m feeling and looking better.
“Initially though, I wasn’t quite sure I would get positive result and also it wasn’t that easy. But the trainer encouraged me. He also made the whole thing interesting by introducing me to some other things on the side. Right now, I don’t need external motivation. The compliments I’m getting from everywhere and the way I feel are enough to keep me on,” she says.
David Ogbeide, a trainer at the gym enumerates some of the factors hindering gym attendees from coming regularly even after they must have registered to include lack of determination and will to see it through, impatience, time and the inability to see the act of working out as an essential part of living.
“You will be surprised to know that some people enroll for a whole year, which is quite some money. They pay all the fees up-front but then, they don’t turn up for the exercise. They attribute this to lack of time and pressures from other areas of their lives. But I can tell you it is because they haven’t come to realise that being fit and in top shape is also a very important aspect of life.”
Perhaps one of the best ways to sustain interest is to attend with a spouse or a close friend. As explained by Ogbeide, when people have a loved one also working out in the same gym, they feel motivated, more relaxed and focus better. The interest can be quite high in such situation.
On any given day
(Strictly for the young)
BY TOSYN BUCKNOR
TECHNOLOGY is fantastic. I mean, look at me, not anywhere close to a desk nor even a computer, but still able to get this article to you.
Music in the background, voices in the other background, some soda to drink and a snack from my favourite vendor. Bliss.
But I have spoken too soon. Because now, that gentleman (also known as an ‘area boy’), and that other gentleman (also known as an agbero) are about to break bottles on each other’s heads because apparently, one of them touched the other’s bottle.
The one he picked up to quickly buy more fuel into and sell to that lady whose car has just died and who cannot be bothered to try and queue.
Yes my fellow Nigerians, I am at a petrol station.
There was a time we did not queue for fuel. This time is also known as, ‘in the good old days’. This was the time before Christmas was postponed, and before queuing for fuel became part of your to do list.
As in, ‘hey Tosyn, what are you doing on Thursday’, and ‘hey Shade, well after the show, I’ll grab a quick lunch, queue for fuel and get a pedicure’.
First we did it reluctantly, but now we blog about it, tweet while we are doing it, and of course, write an article in The Guardian because of it. And if we are not careful, we will actually get used to it. Like how we got used to there never being PHCN-generated power at home.
But while you try to adjust to it, I have moved on to other things, like turning it into a commercial venture! What? Aren’t the ice cream man that I just bought yogo from, and the vendor that I bought gala from also doing it?
And what of these touts that I spoke of earlier who have now made up and are jointly bargaining with the stranded lady? (I think they have asked for thrice what they bought it for. I don’t think she cares anymore).
Why can’t I create a Survival Guide to Petrol Queues, and make money from it?
I mean, everyone needs to know what he or she needs for a fuel queue. The most essential thing is an empty bladder. No one forgives the man who left his car to ease himself, thereby letting others jump the queue when the gate of the petrol station was eventually removed.
You must however stay refreshed and entertained so please have some water and snacks. But if you do not take any with you, do not fear. There will be a steady stream of hawkers urging you to buy everything and anything. And on that note... no ma, I do not need matches, stove and kerosene. I will not be making my dinner at the station.
Your vocabulary might be very good at this point, but you need to incorporate some new words. ‘Please’. Oga. Comot! Or Clearout.
Longer phrases like, ‘Turn by Turn’, ‘How Far?’ and You dey craze, and questions like, ‘Are they selling?’, also come in handy.
Murphy’s law warns you that at any given time, anything that could go wrong usually will. Remember this when you get on a queue that seems to be moving but stops moving when it gets to your turn because the pump is hot.
Or when you get to a station that is selling from only one pump, and is giving priority to people with kegs. When a fight breaks out, chances are something will hit you, or your windscreen. Dress accordingly; this is not the day for short dresses, heels or designer shirts.
Look out for our favourite regulars at petrol stations. ‘Mr. But-What-Are-You-Doing-Here?’ Who is at the station but is not buying fuel nor selling it. There is always that one guy that is mad at the world, and at you.
He spends his time grumbling, and if you spray perfume that he does not like, you will know! People pick their noses all the time, but there is something about a fuel queue that brings out the skills of even the most polished person, and there’s always that one girl applying mascara or blush... it usually is me.
Queues go on for hours, so ‘Mr. Never-Time-Wasted’ has asked his colleagues to meet him at the station for a meeting, and love or at least, friendship-at-first-sight occurs here regularly. There is nothing like bonding over petrol fumes and sighs.
Since the directive that petrol should not be sold in kegs any longer, the keg queues have grown even longer, but on a good day, there will be a random guy who has brought his ‘I Better Pass My Neighbour’ generator to the station.
Laugh hard. These are the little joys you get at times like this. And ‘Mr. If-I-Was-President’ provides the social commentary.
He knows why there is fuel scarcity (although he never says anything strongly nor clearly enough for you to also understand why), and has an opinion on everything, from the Super Eagles (it is the defence), to banks. This guy is your most valued asset at a station, when your battery runs down and you can no longer listen to the radio, or when you are just so starved of human contact that any one would do!
Congratulations! You have been armed with some essential tips for coping with petrol queues. The other tips can be found in my book, complete with a complementary Keg-Disguise bag, for those silly stations that actually comply with instructions not to sell petrol into kegs.
Remember too that anyone can write a book, as it starts with asking the most basic questions:
• Why is there fuel scarcity?
• When will cars run on urine?
• How can I increase my urine output for when question two above is answered?
• Why is my car suddenly lighter?
• Where is my spare tyre?
tosinornottosin@yahoo.com
The single most potent reason businesses fail (1)
(Biz tool Kits)
BY BRIDGET OLOTU
I GOT this interesting mail from a reader and it hints at the issue I want to address this New Year.
“Your weekly contributions … have been a wake-up call for me. Thank you Madam. I am a Pharmacist working in a Federal hospital. I have always wanted to open a community pharmacy shop that is ICT compliant and driven, to meet the medical needs of our people, as never seen before. I procrastinate a lot; it seems I do not know where and how to start. Any advice from you is worth a million to me.”
A. O.
This was my reply to him:
“Hello Mr. A. O. I thank you for your compliments and humility to admit that you needed to take bold steps towards your dream but have been hampered by procrastination. One advice I will readily give you is this: to start any form of business, you need information so you don’t increase the casualty rate of failed businesses. As an employee at the moment, you are venturing into the world of business and need to be armed with the information to avoid making a shipwreck of your foray into business. I am not surprised that the whole thing is mystifying... It will remain as such until you speak with a Business and Management Consultant who can help you birth your dream…”
The Statistics from the Small Business Association in the US and Canada also confirm the scary outcome of failed businesses. These statistics say that 95% of start-up businesses die 5 years after they have been established, while another 90% of the remaining businesses also die after another 5 years. In real terms, this means that if 1,000 businesses start today, from the analysis they gave, after 5 years, 950 businesses would have gone under, and 5 years later, out of the 50 businesses remaining, another set of 45 businesses would suffer similar fate. This means that after 10 years, only 5 businesses would remain standing out of the 1,000 businesses that started out altogether. This is really no mean threat but a real fact as we all are witnesses of the rising mortality rate of big and as well as small businesses.
But from my experience as a management and business development consultant, businesses whose owners did some form of market survey, feasibility survey, environmental scanning, business planning, etc, tend to survive the booby traps that ensnare many start-ups in the marketplace. For instance, in 2007, we were given a brief by a client to carry out a market survey for him regarding the right location for siting his microfinance bank. We were looking at either Lagos or Abuja. Our representative immediately left for Abuja for the survey there. Already we had prepared a questionnaire which was to be administered in the two locations. After having worked tirelessly for days in Abuja and Lagos, we came up with relevant facts that we shared with our client and which informed our conclusion in the research.
From all indications, our client wanted the bank in Abuja because he is of Northern extraction. There is nothing bad about investing in one’s homeland or community. However, the brief we were given was to look at the viability and profitability of having an MFB in Abuja or Lagos.
Our criteria for selecting the right location for his microfinance bank business were as follows:
• The right location must be close to the target market.
• The right location must be close to a large human population
• The right location must not be too expensive in terms of capital outlay
• The right location must address the needs of the right market
• The right location must make it easy for access to a pool of professionals who will work for the bank
The right location must provide healthy return on investment (ROI) for the business.
Olotu is the CEO/Lead Consultant, DEAIM Innovative Resources Ltd., bridgetolotu@gmail.com
BY TOSYN BUCKNOR
TECHNOLOGY is fantastic. I mean, look at me, not anywhere close to a desk nor even a computer, but still able to get this article to you.
Music in the background, voices in the other background, some soda to drink and a snack from my favourite vendor. Bliss.
But I have spoken too soon. Because now, that gentleman (also known as an ‘area boy’), and that other gentleman (also known as an agbero) are about to break bottles on each other’s heads because apparently, one of them touched the other’s bottle.
The one he picked up to quickly buy more fuel into and sell to that lady whose car has just died and who cannot be bothered to try and queue.
Yes my fellow Nigerians, I am at a petrol station.
There was a time we did not queue for fuel. This time is also known as, ‘in the good old days’. This was the time before Christmas was postponed, and before queuing for fuel became part of your to do list.
As in, ‘hey Tosyn, what are you doing on Thursday’, and ‘hey Shade, well after the show, I’ll grab a quick lunch, queue for fuel and get a pedicure’.
First we did it reluctantly, but now we blog about it, tweet while we are doing it, and of course, write an article in The Guardian because of it. And if we are not careful, we will actually get used to it. Like how we got used to there never being PHCN-generated power at home.
But while you try to adjust to it, I have moved on to other things, like turning it into a commercial venture! What? Aren’t the ice cream man that I just bought yogo from, and the vendor that I bought gala from also doing it?
And what of these touts that I spoke of earlier who have now made up and are jointly bargaining with the stranded lady? (I think they have asked for thrice what they bought it for. I don’t think she cares anymore).
Why can’t I create a Survival Guide to Petrol Queues, and make money from it?
I mean, everyone needs to know what he or she needs for a fuel queue. The most essential thing is an empty bladder. No one forgives the man who left his car to ease himself, thereby letting others jump the queue when the gate of the petrol station was eventually removed.
You must however stay refreshed and entertained so please have some water and snacks. But if you do not take any with you, do not fear. There will be a steady stream of hawkers urging you to buy everything and anything. And on that note... no ma, I do not need matches, stove and kerosene. I will not be making my dinner at the station.
Your vocabulary might be very good at this point, but you need to incorporate some new words. ‘Please’. Oga. Comot! Or Clearout.
Longer phrases like, ‘Turn by Turn’, ‘How Far?’ and You dey craze, and questions like, ‘Are they selling?’, also come in handy.
Murphy’s law warns you that at any given time, anything that could go wrong usually will. Remember this when you get on a queue that seems to be moving but stops moving when it gets to your turn because the pump is hot.
Or when you get to a station that is selling from only one pump, and is giving priority to people with kegs. When a fight breaks out, chances are something will hit you, or your windscreen. Dress accordingly; this is not the day for short dresses, heels or designer shirts.
Look out for our favourite regulars at petrol stations. ‘Mr. But-What-Are-You-Doing-Here?’ Who is at the station but is not buying fuel nor selling it. There is always that one guy that is mad at the world, and at you.
He spends his time grumbling, and if you spray perfume that he does not like, you will know! People pick their noses all the time, but there is something about a fuel queue that brings out the skills of even the most polished person, and there’s always that one girl applying mascara or blush... it usually is me.
Queues go on for hours, so ‘Mr. Never-Time-Wasted’ has asked his colleagues to meet him at the station for a meeting, and love or at least, friendship-at-first-sight occurs here regularly. There is nothing like bonding over petrol fumes and sighs.
Since the directive that petrol should not be sold in kegs any longer, the keg queues have grown even longer, but on a good day, there will be a random guy who has brought his ‘I Better Pass My Neighbour’ generator to the station.
Laugh hard. These are the little joys you get at times like this. And ‘Mr. If-I-Was-President’ provides the social commentary.
He knows why there is fuel scarcity (although he never says anything strongly nor clearly enough for you to also understand why), and has an opinion on everything, from the Super Eagles (it is the defence), to banks. This guy is your most valued asset at a station, when your battery runs down and you can no longer listen to the radio, or when you are just so starved of human contact that any one would do!
Congratulations! You have been armed with some essential tips for coping with petrol queues. The other tips can be found in my book, complete with a complementary Keg-Disguise bag, for those silly stations that actually comply with instructions not to sell petrol into kegs.
Remember too that anyone can write a book, as it starts with asking the most basic questions:
• Why is there fuel scarcity?
• When will cars run on urine?
• How can I increase my urine output for when question two above is answered?
• Why is my car suddenly lighter?
• Where is my spare tyre?
tosinornottosin@yahoo.com
The single most potent reason businesses fail (1)
(Biz tool Kits)
BY BRIDGET OLOTU
I GOT this interesting mail from a reader and it hints at the issue I want to address this New Year.
“Your weekly contributions … have been a wake-up call for me. Thank you Madam. I am a Pharmacist working in a Federal hospital. I have always wanted to open a community pharmacy shop that is ICT compliant and driven, to meet the medical needs of our people, as never seen before. I procrastinate a lot; it seems I do not know where and how to start. Any advice from you is worth a million to me.”
A. O.
This was my reply to him:
“Hello Mr. A. O. I thank you for your compliments and humility to admit that you needed to take bold steps towards your dream but have been hampered by procrastination. One advice I will readily give you is this: to start any form of business, you need information so you don’t increase the casualty rate of failed businesses. As an employee at the moment, you are venturing into the world of business and need to be armed with the information to avoid making a shipwreck of your foray into business. I am not surprised that the whole thing is mystifying... It will remain as such until you speak with a Business and Management Consultant who can help you birth your dream…”
The Statistics from the Small Business Association in the US and Canada also confirm the scary outcome of failed businesses. These statistics say that 95% of start-up businesses die 5 years after they have been established, while another 90% of the remaining businesses also die after another 5 years. In real terms, this means that if 1,000 businesses start today, from the analysis they gave, after 5 years, 950 businesses would have gone under, and 5 years later, out of the 50 businesses remaining, another set of 45 businesses would suffer similar fate. This means that after 10 years, only 5 businesses would remain standing out of the 1,000 businesses that started out altogether. This is really no mean threat but a real fact as we all are witnesses of the rising mortality rate of big and as well as small businesses.
But from my experience as a management and business development consultant, businesses whose owners did some form of market survey, feasibility survey, environmental scanning, business planning, etc, tend to survive the booby traps that ensnare many start-ups in the marketplace. For instance, in 2007, we were given a brief by a client to carry out a market survey for him regarding the right location for siting his microfinance bank. We were looking at either Lagos or Abuja. Our representative immediately left for Abuja for the survey there. Already we had prepared a questionnaire which was to be administered in the two locations. After having worked tirelessly for days in Abuja and Lagos, we came up with relevant facts that we shared with our client and which informed our conclusion in the research.
From all indications, our client wanted the bank in Abuja because he is of Northern extraction. There is nothing bad about investing in one’s homeland or community. However, the brief we were given was to look at the viability and profitability of having an MFB in Abuja or Lagos.
Our criteria for selecting the right location for his microfinance bank business were as follows:
• The right location must be close to the target market.
• The right location must be close to a large human population
• The right location must not be too expensive in terms of capital outlay
• The right location must address the needs of the right market
• The right location must make it easy for access to a pool of professionals who will work for the bank
The right location must provide healthy return on investment (ROI) for the business.
Olotu is the CEO/Lead Consultant, DEAIM Innovative Resources Ltd., bridgetolotu@gmail.com
Give me stylish, but modest colours…
THOUGH a student of Microbiology at the Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye, Ogun State, Modestus Diko is already taking his modeling career to a higher level, having worked with notable fashion houses and gracing billboards. Aside his modeling, the Imo State native also has his hands in script writing, with Dark Memories, Straight From The Heart and The enslaved virgin girl to show for his creativity. Modest, as he’s fondly called, who is on the verge of publishing some of his works, tells DAMILOLA ADEKOYA what fashion means to him.Definition of fashion
It is about being trendy and stylish.
Style of dressing
Very modest; of course, my name works for me. I design my clothes myself most times, but specifically, I go on t-shirts and nice trousers.
Uniqueness of style
My dressing and my hair; they are always stylish… I treat my hair twice a week.
Position in the family
I’m the second in the family of seven children; my dad is an accountant, while my mum is a businesswoman.
Most expensive item
My manuscripts.
Favorite colour
I love blue and red; they are flashy and I love flashy colours.
Favourite designers
Gucci; he’s very stylish.
Stylish Icon(s)
I love Michael Jackson, but locally, I admirer Denrele Edun of Soundcity.
Role models
Michael Jackson; he was very different.
Favourite body products
I love Pears products; I’ve been using them from when I was a baby. They suit my skin perfectly.
Signature scent(s)
I use any one that comes my way.
Food
I love rice and plantain.
Turn on
I can say music, but basically writing turns me on.
Turn off
Indecency.
Happiest moment
Being born by my mother when she actually did.
Most embarrassing moment
I really can’t remember.
Describe yourself in three words
Modest, trendy and creative.
Inspiration
My environment really motivates me, especially in writing.
Philosophy of life
Be steadfast in whatever you do; don’t give up easily.
If you were given an opportunity to change something in Nigeria, what would it be?
The perception of we Nigerians is very bad; I will like to change the way we think.
Growing natural
BY OLUWAFUNMILOLA ADEWARAIT’s a never-ending discussion: The woman hair. For the black woman, the story is different and complicating. The relaxer, the hot comb, curling irons, Iye, among others, have made her appearance to either pander towards the Western culture or make her ‘local’, if she insists on being natural. And since 1910, when Madam CJ Walker chemically relaxed her hair, the black woman’s hair has moved, like a yo-yo, between the natural and relaxed.
Yet, it is the dream of every woman to have lovely, shiny hair. A well-made hair is the ultimate accessory a woman can adorn for any outing. It can add to or take away from her look, instantly.
Keeping it in healthy condition, thus, is the most important way to prepare for an outing. Here are some tips to grow your hair, natural:
• Eat a healthy diet, avoid foods that are high in sugar or fat. A diet that is low in protein may cause some thinning in hair or retardation in the growth cycle. The converse is true, if you eat a protein-rich diet it will often result in improved hair growth.
• Treat it carefully avoid any unnecessary brushing, combing or handling. Flat brushes are best for dry hair.
• Know your water; if your hair looks dull or is hard to style, the problem could be your tap water; so, avoid use of hot water, hot blow dryers or other hair care tools that may stress the hair.
• Do a series of ongoing hot oil treatments to protect the hair shaft.
• Deep condition once every two week; have a weekly scalp message to provide stimulation to the hair follicles these treatments penetrate the hair shaft and strengthen strands.
• Have regular trims to eliminate split ends and allow the hair to look and feel health.
• Get plenty of rest and sleep to allow your body to grow hair.
If your body is health and well nourished your hair will grow lovely.
Vendrika unveils Combino for 2010
BY OYINDAMOLA LAWALRECENTLY, Vendrika unveiled its 2010 outfits for both men and women. At the unveiling, fabrics such as ankara, leather, lace, organza, cotton, among others, were made into glamorous corporate, casual, evening and formal wears.
According to Emmanuel Usanga, the brain behind Vendrika, “trends will be seasonal. We expect to capture some segment of overseas market with our Leather Combino outfits. These outfits combine synthetic leather with hard African textiles such as woodin to penetrate the jeans / casual wear market. They look very sensational, sexy and captivating. They are good for attention seekers in the spring. In the summer, we expect to marshal out our African Summer Solaria. This is a set of designs that are good for the beach, open air and party events. They are colorful African cotton with glamour and style. These can sell all-year round in the tropics and overseas during the summer.”
The African Solarian are colourful casual, evening and formal wears ranging from gypsy skirt, short with jacket, shirts, hand band, asymmetry dress to mention a few.
Assaulting sawdust to make live healthier
SAWDUST is a menace in Nigeria. People burn it for lack of a better use, and it also clogs waterways. The situation troubles Rufus Idris because people in his country suffer the health effects of smoke, particles and toxic gases.He made a pitch in a competition to World Bank three years ago, to get funding to turn wood waste into products. Though he didn’t win, the idea made it to the finals and gained support. As a result, a small business that makes sawdust briquettes is under way in Nigeria.
Idris, co-founder of the Union Of African Communities in Pittsburgh, is in Washington, D.C., as a finalist in the African Diaspora Marketplace competition. He wants to help Nigerians – and ultimately people throughout Africa – start businesses making water filter vessels modeled on the ones made in the basement of Braddock’s Carnegie Library.
The Braddock Pot Shop is home to the first water-vessel factory in North America. There, Jeffrey Schwarz makes ceramic cones from clay, sawdust and colloidal silver. When the cones are fired at 1,700 degrees, the sawdust burns off and the vessel becomes something like a colander through which the water filters.
IDRIS learnt about the factory from a professor at La Roche College. “He showed up last summer and said, ‘I have a problem with sawdust,” said Mr. Schwarz. The factory was set up in the fall of 2008. At the urging of Braddock Mayor John Fetterman, AmeriCorps established Mr. Schwarz as a paid staff to run it. The factory was the brainchild of Slippery Rock University ceramics instructor Richard Wukich, Schwarz’s former teacher.
Since word has spread about the factory, it has become a resource and training centre for people, who want to take the expertise to their homelands. It doesn’t make sense to pay to ship vessels when people can make them where they’re needed, said Schwarz.
Idris gets money from the Heinz Endowments to develop economic improvement programmes for African immigrants under a non-profit organisation, Christian Evangelistic Economic Development, he runs. He has a bachelor’s degree in Aquatic Sciences and a Master’s in Environmental Management and Toxicology from Nigerian universities. He is working towards a Physical Therapy degree in a joint programme of Duquesne University and La Roche College.
He was among the 733 applicants for USAID/Western Union funding. If his project is selected, it could receive between $50,000 to $100,000. He is also working on a collaboration that includes the University of Pittsburgh, Slippery Rock University, Rotary International and other non-profit organisations. He said the vessels in Nigerian households could have a ripple effect on the peoples’ lives.
Safe water will make people healthier, and income from the factories will afford them better food. He estimates that in the first year of funding, 35 people could be put to work and that, over three years, 39,000 filters could be in use in Nigerian households.
“The major materials are in abundance and the machine needed is simple to get,” he said. “It is such a simple way to solve so many problems.”
djones@post-gazette.com
Nego Spiritual
BY GREGORY AUSTIN NWAKUNORSECONDS crawls into minutes and the minutes tick agonizingly into hour. Yes. Just one hour. Nwakaego Aisosa Aghedo sits patiently, waiting patiently for one of her sponsors to show up. She paces around, almost ready to hear the footsteps of ghosts. She looks out of the window for the 10th time, unconsciously. Yet no sign of him. Thrice, she lunges for the door and flings it open, only to discover that it is just a rush of the wind.
She’d surprised everybody when she started her NGO, as a part two student. “My mission is to take away students from crime,” the words stumble out of her mouth. She forces a smile, and later, holds the tongue.
There’s a map of astonishment on her face. She looks up and sees her sponsor. “Oh God, at last!” Nwakaego exhales. She rises to her feet and offers her sponsor a handshake. “I was scared you won’t make this place again; I was almost going,” she says in a whining voice that could be a companion during lonely nights.
She appears calm now, nibbling gently, the pie she bought earlier. “Just a moment, I have to be with my sponsor,” she says. Her voice softens into whispers. I watch, as she walks away with her guest. The heels of her shoe sink into the soft earth.
After about an hour, she joins me and we begin to discuss her project. “Nego Poetry Corner (NPC) is my contribution to youth development,” she says. Her eyes light up again and just as quickly dulled.
Why poetry?
“Poetry corner aims at encouraging poets, building new breed of poets and those who can entertain through poetry. Those involved in performance poetry.” She laughs; it is a girly laugh that is warming. “Poetry gives fulfillment. It is a form of art that allows for self expression. This art has existed through the ages. In Africa, oral poetry, the African original performance poetry in the villages, has always been part of our lives and what have you. Its appreciation, as a genre of literature is depreciating by the day as film, music and dance have taken over,” she says animatedly, waving her hand, as if offering them as a gift to me.
The power of positive thinking has turned Nwakaego into a strong character, sort of. She shrugs when asked if she had the fund to carry on with such a project without sponsorship. “It’s not so easy, but I’ll try.”
NEGO Poetry Corner (NPC) was conceived on December 27, 2007 in the mind of a student of the Delta State University (DELSU), Abraka.
The 300 level medical science undergraduate brought poets from diverse departments to a stand still as the corner had its maiden contest. The keenly contested competition held in Abraka campus of the school held on May 3, 2008, had judges from the departments of English and literary studies, theatre arts and English linguistics.
Assisted by Lincoln Maife, a 300 level geography and regional planning student of same school, every first and last Saturday evenings, reading sessions hold for members of the poetry corner where their poems are not appreciated, but given constructive criticism. This year, “it will be happening in different campuses that NPC is present. Towards the middle of the year, members of the organisation will gather at our secretariat for a grand reading session.”
“Aha,” she breathes. A flicker of hopes show in her eyes and she says, “the poetry corner allows poets to showcase what they have written over time and how possible improvements could be made to bring out the best in the pieces. NPC is building a strong network of poets in the country from secondary to university level.”
The young looking lady, with appealing eyes that can smolder and pierce at the same time, says, “the mission is to introduce as many students as possible, if not all, to the world of poetry so that they can shun cultism.”
She says the attention is to take NPC to another level. Already, plans are afoot to have a reality show for poets that will be viewed not just in Nigeria, but the whole of Africa.
“There are plans to have a contest that will bring poets from every par of the continent,” she says with a nod of approval.
For the Abraka contests, there have been two editions and the third is in the offing. Both editions recorded great successes. “A lot is expected from the third and we cannot afford to fail,” she says.
Does Nwakaego think that the financial reward is attractive enough to draw students to the project?
“Yes,” she admits. “On campus, N1,000 is a huge sum and when you can make it through your talent, it doesn’t cost anything to join others.” She smiles. Her voice drops into a whisper when she says, “let me tell you that every semester, students of Abraka now look forward to the over N20, 000, which will be soon be upped that they can get from NPC. That is what we targeted and we are succeeding.”
BORN in Calabar, where she attended Hillcrest Nursery and Primary School, before she moved to Benin, where she did her secondary education at the Federal Staff Secondary School.
The student of Pharmacology, who is from Oredo Local Council, says she started poetry recitations, when she was younger.
“I loved it and was not interested in dancing competition like other young kids of my age. You will be surprised to know that at an early age, I had started to recite poems from such greats as JP Clark, Wole Soyinka, Chris Okigbo and Gabriel Okara,” she enthuses.
The grand daughter of a magistrate, who was in love with Shakespeare, he in fact lit the poetry light in her. “I’m still looking for something to replace him in my heart,” she confesses.
Mr. Iluobe, her Vice Principal in secondary school, gave her more literary exposure. “At the school’s valedictory, I was called to do something, then, I was in JSS 2. I did a poem that made her popular in school.”
On the verge of graduation from secondary school, “I thought I could do something worthy of remembrance. I told my friend Osasere Omoruyi my plans, and together we put something together titled, The Nation, but there was no opportunity to recite it.”
While waiting for result, she went on the net, where she had contact with other poets.
“Anoliefo Victor and Ike Anya of Abuja Literary Society (ALS) encouraged me to come. But I couldn’t because of age, however, my parents finally allowed me to go. There I had opportunity to see how poetry is taken seriously, I saw people. Who were doing what I was doing so I needed to be encouraged. I wanted to be sure that I was not chasing shadows,” Nwakaego says enthusiastically.
She is already working on a long piece, which she has titled, Because it is, It can be you. She says it is a one-long poem project, and issues that bother her as well as those that affect every human will be studied. “Even when I am gone, somebody will take over and continue with same title.”
The drama coordinator of the campus fellowship of Word of Life Bible Church, Nwakaego is also the first born of her parents.
On a passing note, she says, “it is said that the more the age, the more the rags, but I contest, the more acquisition of clothing, the more the rags.”
From the HOME FRONT
Tent Houz unwraps new acts
FIVE years after emerging the NYSC Merit award winner for the album entitled Tha NYSC, in Delta State, Tent Houz Entertainment, has signed on Nel Divine and a group called B Flatz.
Made up of Longton and Tu-4, B Flatz were third runner up band (Revolution 6) at the 2007 edition of Star Quest talent hunt contest. But after the show, Longton, then lead vocalist and guitarist of the band, had to rebrand the group when they crashed out of the competition. Teaming up with Tu-4, they recorded some songs, which attracted the attention of Tent Houz.
Nell Divine on his part is full of thanks to the label, describing it as the right platform for his kind of music, which he said educates, entertains and informs.
Renowned for his dance instructing roles for artistes like Tuface Idibia, Sammy Okposo, Charly Boy and others, the creative director of Tent Houz, Danny Dolor, reiterated the label’s commitment to developing and promoting young talented artistes.
“An effective artiste development programme is the key to the future of Nigeria music industry wherein young artistes can be nurtured over a reasonable period of time by capable and professional hands, before pursuing their career professionally.”
Nell D and B Flatz’s singles Wiffy and Ife respectively, would be released next month.
Yemi Sax blows to UK
Saxophonist Adeosun Adeyemi Joseph, popularly called Yemi Sax, will be among top Nigerian artistes that will storm the United Kingdom on February 21 for a comedy show tagged Lord of The Ribs.
Scheduled to hold at the Indigo2, O2 Arena, North Greenwich, London, the show organised by comedian Basketmouth, is expected to also feature MI, Eddie Kadi, Eldee D Don, and Banky W.
According to Yemi’s manager, Seun Abisagboola, the saxophonist is ready to hold London spellbound.
“Yemi Sax is ready for the show; being on big stage is not strange to him. He was at the just concluded Calabar Xmas Festival where he thrilled the crowd. Since he got the invitation to perform at the Basket Mouth’s Lord of The Ribs, Yemi Sax has been excited and he is sure to be as electrifying as usual on that day.”
He observed that oncoming concert would afford Yemi Sax the opportunity to play some of the tunes in his latest album, which is due for release sometime this year.
“Yemi Sax will dish out some of his new sounds to the guests at the show. We will also use the opportunity to visit some Nigerian controlled TV stations in the UK and create some buzz around the artiste, especially against the backdrop of the fact that we are releasing his oncoming works over there.”
Celebrity Takes 2:
Yemi Blaq takes it all
Actor, Yemi Blaq has emerged winner in the recently concluded dance TV reality show, Celebrity takes 2. Yemi beats fellow Nollywood stars, Fred Amata and Stella Damasus, to clinch the top prize after the last dance held at the Liberty Hotel, Lekki, Lagos.
Based on the stage performance of the three finalists, many had given the the prize to Stella, who led the pack with her stage performance, scoring 48.64 percent, leaving Blaq and Fred Amata at 41.67 and 31.6 per cent, respectively. But the votes casted by the fans of the celebrities, however, changed the tide against Stella. According to the firm that was assigned the responsibility of managing the votes, Alexander Forbes Consulting Actuaries Nigeria Limited, Blaq recorded more votes than his counterparts and had the highest overall points.
The wife of Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola, who graced the occasion, described the three finalists as “winners” having performed wonderfully well. “To all contestants, I say congratulations, but in all competitions, a winner must emerge. This is the situation you find yourself today. We appreciate you all and we are glad to tell you well done.”
Similarly, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Skye Bank Plc, Mr. Akinsola Akinfemiwa, who was also present at the event, commended all contestants in the competition for entertaining the people in different strata of the economy with their skills.
I’m neither sick nor mad - Wande Coal
MO HITS’ singer, Wande Coal has come out to quash rumours that he is in some rehab overseas, recuperating from mental problems, which arose from drug abuse.
These rumours have been circulating since late last year as many people suggested that his absence from major events such as the yearly Star Mega Jamz and Ovation Red Carol, is as a result of his illness. However, the Bumper To Bumper crooner made it to Calabar for the Christmas Carnival, looking very healthy.
When confronted with the issue, Wande said, “I’m not mad o, and I’m not sick; me that has been traveling around doing shows? In fact, lately I’ve been traveling too much, that’s why you people don’t really see me around. And for the record, I was at Ovation Red Carol oh,” he said.
Meanwhile, Wande is said to be so bitter at the moment over the breach in the contractual agreement, with Don Jazzy and poured out his mind on how Mo’Hits has not been forthcoming with their promises on the royalties from his album.
FIVE years after emerging the NYSC Merit award winner for the album entitled Tha NYSC, in Delta State, Tent Houz Entertainment, has signed on Nel Divine and a group called B Flatz.
Made up of Longton and Tu-4, B Flatz were third runner up band (Revolution 6) at the 2007 edition of Star Quest talent hunt contest. But after the show, Longton, then lead vocalist and guitarist of the band, had to rebrand the group when they crashed out of the competition. Teaming up with Tu-4, they recorded some songs, which attracted the attention of Tent Houz.
Nell Divine on his part is full of thanks to the label, describing it as the right platform for his kind of music, which he said educates, entertains and informs.
Renowned for his dance instructing roles for artistes like Tuface Idibia, Sammy Okposo, Charly Boy and others, the creative director of Tent Houz, Danny Dolor, reiterated the label’s commitment to developing and promoting young talented artistes.
“An effective artiste development programme is the key to the future of Nigeria music industry wherein young artistes can be nurtured over a reasonable period of time by capable and professional hands, before pursuing their career professionally.”
Nell D and B Flatz’s singles Wiffy and Ife respectively, would be released next month.
Yemi Sax blows to UK
Saxophonist Adeosun Adeyemi Joseph, popularly called Yemi Sax, will be among top Nigerian artistes that will storm the United Kingdom on February 21 for a comedy show tagged Lord of The Ribs.
Scheduled to hold at the Indigo2, O2 Arena, North Greenwich, London, the show organised by comedian Basketmouth, is expected to also feature MI, Eddie Kadi, Eldee D Don, and Banky W.
According to Yemi’s manager, Seun Abisagboola, the saxophonist is ready to hold London spellbound.
“Yemi Sax is ready for the show; being on big stage is not strange to him. He was at the just concluded Calabar Xmas Festival where he thrilled the crowd. Since he got the invitation to perform at the Basket Mouth’s Lord of The Ribs, Yemi Sax has been excited and he is sure to be as electrifying as usual on that day.”
He observed that oncoming concert would afford Yemi Sax the opportunity to play some of the tunes in his latest album, which is due for release sometime this year.
“Yemi Sax will dish out some of his new sounds to the guests at the show. We will also use the opportunity to visit some Nigerian controlled TV stations in the UK and create some buzz around the artiste, especially against the backdrop of the fact that we are releasing his oncoming works over there.”
Celebrity Takes 2:
Yemi Blaq takes it all
Actor, Yemi Blaq has emerged winner in the recently concluded dance TV reality show, Celebrity takes 2. Yemi beats fellow Nollywood stars, Fred Amata and Stella Damasus, to clinch the top prize after the last dance held at the Liberty Hotel, Lekki, Lagos.
Based on the stage performance of the three finalists, many had given the the prize to Stella, who led the pack with her stage performance, scoring 48.64 percent, leaving Blaq and Fred Amata at 41.67 and 31.6 per cent, respectively. But the votes casted by the fans of the celebrities, however, changed the tide against Stella. According to the firm that was assigned the responsibility of managing the votes, Alexander Forbes Consulting Actuaries Nigeria Limited, Blaq recorded more votes than his counterparts and had the highest overall points.
The wife of Governor Babatunde Fashola of Lagos State, Mrs. Abimbola Fashola, who graced the occasion, described the three finalists as “winners” having performed wonderfully well. “To all contestants, I say congratulations, but in all competitions, a winner must emerge. This is the situation you find yourself today. We appreciate you all and we are glad to tell you well done.”
Similarly, the Managing Director/Chief Executive Officer of Skye Bank Plc, Mr. Akinsola Akinfemiwa, who was also present at the event, commended all contestants in the competition for entertaining the people in different strata of the economy with their skills.
I’m neither sick nor mad - Wande Coal
MO HITS’ singer, Wande Coal has come out to quash rumours that he is in some rehab overseas, recuperating from mental problems, which arose from drug abuse.
These rumours have been circulating since late last year as many people suggested that his absence from major events such as the yearly Star Mega Jamz and Ovation Red Carol, is as a result of his illness. However, the Bumper To Bumper crooner made it to Calabar for the Christmas Carnival, looking very healthy.
When confronted with the issue, Wande said, “I’m not mad o, and I’m not sick; me that has been traveling around doing shows? In fact, lately I’ve been traveling too much, that’s why you people don’t really see me around. And for the record, I was at Ovation Red Carol oh,” he said.
Meanwhile, Wande is said to be so bitter at the moment over the breach in the contractual agreement, with Don Jazzy and poured out his mind on how Mo’Hits has not been forthcoming with their promises on the royalties from his album.
For love girl Sade...it’s now Soldier of Love
AFTER about 10 years break from recording, Nigeria-born-Grammy Award-winning artiste, Sade Adu is set for a come back with her latest work, Soldier of Love. Billed for release on February 8, the new work is Sade’s first official studio album since the multi-platinum release of Lovers Rock in 2000. Soldier of Love is based entirely around a single staggering groove, a wounded stride anchored by a regular kick drum and delayed snare. Of course, at its centre is Sade’s incomparable voice, which sounds as passionate as the 1984’s Diamond Life. Though she’s turning 51 this month, Sade still looks as beautiful as she did in the ‘80s.
Born Helen Folasade Adu in 1959 in Ibadan, Nigeria, Sade is the daughter of Adebisi Adu (an economics professor) and Anne Hayes (an English nurse) — both met in London and later moved to Nigeria. When the marriage ran into difficulties, Anne returned to Clacton-on-Sea, Essex, England, taking four-month old Sade and the older brother Banji, to live with her parents; where Sade and her friends found solace from their dismal surroundings in dance clubs. In her teens, she had developed passion for jazz, funk, and soul music.
At 17, she left for London to study Fashion and Design at St. Martin’s College of Art in the City’s West End. On graduating, she and a friend launched their own business, designing men’s clothing. The design business never became very profitable, and Sade supplemented her income by taking modeling jobs, which she did not especially enjoy. Meanwhile, she continued to spend as much time as possible in dance clubs, where she felt most at home.
ALONG the line, a popular London funk group, Pride, was looking for a backup singer. Her lack of experience as a vocalist notwithstanding, their manager chose Sade for her stunning looks. She later auditioned for the spot and was rejected, but when nobody better showed up over a period, she was then given the job. But she continued designing clothes for a living with music being her main evening hobby.
As a backup singer, Sade quickly developed a following of her own, and at the suggestion of Pride’s manager, she and few others from the band worked up a set of songs to perform during Pride’s between-set breaks, with Sade taking centre stage. She teamed up with Pride’s saxophonist Stuart Mathewman, to write several catchy songs for the splinter group and before long, Sade was overshadowing Pride.
As a band, Sade created a stir almost immediately. Its first break came in 1983, when they were engaged to play at a concert at the Institute of Contemporary Arts, sponsored by the glossy British music and fashion magazine, The Face. Sade, who was backed only by Mathewman and a small rhythm section, captivated the artsy crowd. By October of that year, the band, which now included bassist Paul Denman, keyboardist Andrew Hale, and drummer Paul Cooke (later replaced by Dave Early), signed with Epic Records.
SADE’S first single, Your Love Is King, was released the following February while The Diamond Life album came out just five months later. The group quickly became a favourite among trendy artistic types, and Diamond Life soared to the top of the British charts. Fearing that the work will not go well among American listeners, Epic did not release the album in the United States until early 1985, but on the strength of Smooth Operator, it became a huge hit.
Diamond Life sold six million copies worldwide by the end of 1985, becoming the best selling album ever by a Nigerian female singer. It also won the British Phonographic Institute’s Best Album prize, and the Grammy for Best New Artiste.
Sade spent much of 1985 touring, to promote Diamond Life and recording the follow-up album, which was released later in the year. Like its predecessor, Promise carved a quick path up the charts in both Britain and the US, fueled by its Top 5 single Sweetest Taboo. As the tour wound down, she was surrounded by rumors of being depressed about a busted love affair, hooked on drugs, having a nervous breakdown, or beset by some combination of the three. Her usual aversion to public scrutiny only gave the rumourmongers more room to perpetuate themselves.
Exhausted from the tour and put off by the unwanted attention, she withdrew from the limelight for a while before returning with a new album, Stronger Than Pride in 1988. After a world tour that included stops in Japan and Australia, and full-blown stadium concerts in the US, Sade dropped out of sight again; this time, for an even longer period. She moved to Spain and suffered through an unhappy one-year marriage to documentary filmmaker, Carlos Scola.
After the breakup, Sade moved back to London, where she bought an old house, gutted it almost entirely, and built a fully- equipped recording studio in the basement. She then reassembled her band and began work on their next album, Love Deluxe, released in 1992. In spite of her long absence from the public, Sade’s fans had not forgotten her. The album sold well, remaining on the Billboard charts for 90 weeks and spawning another international tour of sold out concerts in the United States, Europe, and Japan. The featured single, No Ordinary Love, earned the Grammy for Best R&B Duo or Group Performance and was featured prominently in the hit film Indecent Proposal.
IN 1995, Sade took another career break, this time to have a baby with partner Bob Morgan, a record producer. While she concentrated on parenthood at home in Montego Bay, Jamaica, the rest of the band, working under the name Sweetback, released a self-titled album the following year. Meanwhile, Sade concentrated her energies on repackaging her decade’s worth of material into new forms. She released two such products in 1996: a recording called The Best of Sade and Sade Interactive, a multimedia CD-ROM that includes songs, videos, photographs, band biographies, and other information.
Although the gaps between Sade’s new projects seem to be widening, her voice — both as a singer and songwriter — remains a distinctive one in the music industry. Until a new star emerges, who can out-cool Sade; her latest work stands the chance of being greeted with enthusiasm by her numerous fans.
Mark Whitfield… A chip of the old block
BY BENSON IDONIJEOF all the young guitar players on the scene today, Mark Whitfield is perhaps the most professionally talented and rounded.
True, every soloist, including great veterans such as Wes Montgomery, Charlie Christian and even Miles Davis, Sonny Rollins and all — repeat phrases in the process of expressing themselves and articulating lines of improvisation. No one is all knowing; no one is absolutely perfect; these things don’t happen with computerised precision.
But repetition can be drastically reduced, the way it is in the hands of the great veterans if appropriate steps and measures are taken. The problem is that because they are guitarists, they believe that their entire focus and attention should be directed towards the instrument alone, instead of maintaining an open mind and adopting a holistic attitude to jazz as an artform. Whitfield is not part of this misconception.
In the last 15 years, guitarists have sounded the same in the articulation of tonal concepts and improvisational lines — all because they have refused to identify with tradition and the past. They know about the fact that Wes Montgomery is the greatest, but have never taken time out to discover the source of his technique. Instead, they have all fallen back on George Benson and Earl Klugh who, though were influenced by Wes himself, have singled out for emphasis, specific phrases and ideas that provoke instant reaction and appeal — driven by commercial motivation. Whitfield, certainly, is not part of this conspiracy.
Experience has shown that it is not enough to study the instrument– in conformity with scales and exercises. It is not enough to be able to make the changes along set patterns and progressions emanating from your own imagination.
Though this is extremely desirable, it is completely necessary to involve yourself in the knowledge of conventions and jazz history. It is important to hear from veterans who trod this path before and grappled with difficulties whose solutions have become the norm today. Whifield has gone through this experience; he has heard from the elders.
One of the attributes that puts Wes Montgomery on top of all jazz guitarists is the ability to enact chorded solos even at the octave– a feat that George Benson and Earl Klugh’s imitative approach has handed down to today’s players who, however, seem to be articulating it out of context.
A committed instrumentalist would want to know how this feat all came about; and it is its explanation that would situate it in its true context—for positive use. Chorded solos in the hands of Wes who is the boss of the instrument, is only a means to an end, not an end in itself – the way today’s guitarists are making it look like. But Whitfield is totally aware of these misconceptions.
This same feat reminds me of pianist Red Garland, a highly innovative pianist, whose spirit was killed by Miles Davis who wanted him to do exactly what he (Miles) wanted— for the shape of his band’s sound identity. Red Garland was only a sideman like Wynton Kelly, Gil Evans or Herbie Hancock — pianists who all played with him at the time. The point is that Red Garland came up with an innovative feat that was known at the time as block chords for his solo concept. I listened to a jazz pianist at Ronnie Scott’s, the new Ronnie Scott’s, London’s one time most popular jazz club, two years ago, and all he did throughout was a complete engagement in block chords. It made no sense.
However, guitarist Whitfield is a virtuoso who has great respect for conventions and tradition. Quite understandably, he counts Montgomery and Kenny Burrell -- two giants of the instrument who are what they are in jazz because their styles are miles apart as creative individuals -- among his greatest influence. In order to put his career on a genuine professional path, Mark studied both the acoustic bass and guitar, and was awarded scholarships to Berklee School of music for both instruments.
To underscore his commitment to music in general, and his choice of instrument in particular, Mark turned down an accelerated medical school programme at Georgetown University and attended Berklee School of Music on a guitar scholarship in 1983.
From Berklee, Whitfield moved to New York for professional opportunities and made the most of them, performing with such legends, as bassist Ray Brown whose acoustic version helped to create a unique identity for the famous Oscar Peterson Trio. He also played with the organist Jimmy Smith and singer Betty Carter as well as some of the top jazz artists of his own generation including Terence Blanchard, Donald Harrison, Nicholas Payton, Christian Mc Bride, and Britain’s top saxophonist, Curtney Pine.
Whitfield has released numerous recordings as a leader, including 1977’s Forever Love, which features solo guitar to full orchestral arrangements, the kind of feat Wes Montgomery accomplished with AM and Riverside Records in his life time. With his unique combination of talent and showmanship, Whitfield is truly one of the most talented jazz guitarists working today.
Louis Armstrong and perhaps Dizzy Gillespie were the first to introduce show business to jazz —without destroying the artistic essence of the music. But still, critics tried to put them down for what they thought was going to take a lot away from the music’s creativity. But it was taken over in later years by even the artists who were known for their ideological views about the music–Lester Bowie, Miles Davis and Sonny Rollins from the way they dressed. Mark Whitfield started this flamboyant stage presence in the’80s–to set the pace for guitar players.
“I think that it is very important that as an artist, when you take the stage, in any forum, that you have some sort of presence people can identify with,” said Mark Whitfield in justification of his showmanship. “I think it’s a problem if its something you have to go out and find. I think one thing I‘ve always been able to do is walk out in front of a lot of people and play music and enjoy myself. I enjoy playing for myself, and I enjoy playing for people. I’ve never really had to give much thought to putting together some sort of show. To reinforce that, you know, I genuinely really love to play and that, that comes across, the music is enough, and maybe that’s even better for people because I think they perceive it as being genuine.”
Mark Whitfield’s commitment is a source of inspiration to today’s guitar players even though most of them need to imbibe Mark’s total spirit and motivation. His advice to aspiring young jazz musicians is instructive:
“I had the benefit of a lot of really good advice, and it came from a lot of different sources. I think the most important thing a young person can do in thinking about preparing for a career in jazz music is that you have to go about it with the same seriousness and preparation that you would use for any highly specialised skill, as if you wanted to be a neurosurgeon, an astronaut, something that requires a lot of study and a lot of dedication, far beyond what is the normal call of duty. In this day and age, you have so many different avenues for information. There are tons of books and instructional videos; and I guess you can even now study over the Internet.
“And, prepare yourself before you even go to college. And when you go, you want to pick a place where you can go, and be prepared, and get the best education possible for what it is that you want to do. If you want to be a great basketball player, you don’t want to go to Berklee School of Music. I think if you dedicate a lot of time and effort and energy into it, and you love it–and you have the ability, it will pay off for you.”
Whitfield had always maintained this focus from the age of seven when he owned his guitar. He started by trying to imitate what he heard from a Lightnin’ Hopkins record, called And follows you after the blues. He tried to play the riffs and things with the songs. His parents saw his interests at that early age and got him some lessons at a local music store.
Today, he is on top, enjoying rave reviews such as “one-of-a kind” guitarist, “virtuoso” and “technician” of the guitar.
Teeth 4 Teeth
BY JUSTIN AKPOVI-ESADE
Lancelot Imasuen’s got a ‘bodyguard’
NOLLYWOOD director, Lancelot Imasuen, perhaps now moves about with a bodyguard. If not how would you explain what happened at GTB on Bank Anthony Road, Ikeja on Tuesday, January 19 at about 1.16pm? T4T went to the bank close to Sheraton Hotels & Towers to withdraw his tachere money and whom did he see on the long queue other than our dear Lancelot? He was wearing a rather weird designer white shirt over a pair of baggy Jean trousers. Lancelot was chewing what appeared to be a piece of kolanut that hot afternoon. T4T waited on the sideline for a slip (as if Lancelot wan fall down). None came. So as T4T made to sneak away, Lancelot ‘caught’ him. Trust the Edo State native; he never misses any opportunity to lament the state of the movie industry. It took another 20 minutes before one could run away from the dude and as T4T made to go through those funny doors of the bank, a smiling Johnny Walker, the comedian that also never misses a chance to crack a joke accosted him. He proudly announced that he came with Lancelot. That struck a chord in T4T. So, Walker is now Lancelot’s ‘bodyguard’? Or was the money he came to withdraw so much that he needed extra security? He should have hired one of those loud, lousy bullion vans! Anyway, this piece of information is for your consumption only, no be say you go dey go dey tell pipu say I talk say Lancelot don get bodyguard o.
... Still on Johnny Walker
LATER that evening, T4T ran into Johnny Walker at O’jez. He was sitting with Nollywood star, Ejike Asiegbu. T4T sat close to them. Minutes later, foods and drinks began to arrive the table like it was raining. Then Walker became agitated, he was not sitting at a vantage position, so, it was an uphill task for him to get a fair share of the goodies. Typical of Niger Deltans, he protested and when nobody listened to him, he moved his seat close to comedy actor, Victor Osuagwu. He began to enjoy like others and you needed to see the smile on his face. There is nothing like free dinner and drinks.
Help, Sonny Mcdon can’t send SMS!
DO you know that Nollywood star, Sonny Mcdon, cannot send simple telephone SMS? You now know anyway. The actor last week sent T4T an SMS, and it came blank. I was curious, perhaps that particular mobile phone company that is fast gaining notoriety for network problems, has started again, so, I thought. Then hours later, I saw his missed call which was followed with another blank text message. Trust T4T, he became curious. Days later, after the two had talked and T4T had asked Mcdon to send some information to him, he got yet another blank SMS. Then the nickel dropped, Sonny Mcdon can’t send an SMS! T4T confronted him on the matter and he smiled and waved it away. See what our stars are? Well, thank God there is a T4T who continuously tells you what these people do and who they truly are. Dis T4T na wa o, hmm.
Opa Williams’ got five generators!
HAVE you been to comedy merchant Opa Williams’ office on Sam Sonibare Street, Surulere, Lagos, recently? Please do and you will be amazed because Ose as he is fondly called is a living testimony of a failed nation. Opa has five power generating sets! T4T counted three yellow generators and two red ones last week Thursday. And sadly, Opa was overheard asking someone to find out for him the price of a giant generator from a particular company that people have accused of being the mafia behind the poor public power supply (how, I do not know). Dear President Yar Adua, you see what you are doing to people like Opa Williams? Soon, someone will mistake his office for a generator warehouse and one day ask the price for one of his yellow ones. To God be the glory sha.
... As Ejike Asiegbu goes to school
FORMER president of Actors Guild of Nigeria, Ejike Asiegbu, as you are reading this, may have travelled to Enugu State to begin a crash course on how to fix mobile phones, especially barring calls from some particular persons (there are so many enemies in Nollywood now). He was so worked up on how to bar a particular number that had been pestering him for quite some time last week at a popular hangout, and then he recalls that Chinedu, one of the Aki and Paw Paw duos, had taught him in the past. So, he pulled a call across to the pint size fella (don’t know whether he is the Aki or Paw Paw anyway). The midget ran him through the process, but long after they had talked, Ejike was still battling with his phone. Someone suggested he took a flight to Enugu (where the midget actor lives) and take a two-week course. He bought the idea, so do not be surprised when you run into the giant actor at the local wing of the airport and he tells you he is coming from Enugu. You don’t need to ask him what he went for.
Osuagwu eats a baby whale
COMEDIAN, Victor Osuagwu, popularly called Man Na Mumu, and a friend on Tuesday, ate a grilled fish that could pass for a baby whale! The waiter at the popular hangout in National Stadium, Surulere, had a difficult time ferrying the fish from the kitchen to Osuagwu’s table that evening. To add to her woes, the waiter brought it with chips. Victor and his fair-complexion friend settled down to demolish the whale-like fish and T4T noticed that it took them barely 15 minutes to down the giant grilled fish! Geez, that was fast. Even Usain Bolt was not as fast as the duo when he broke the world record and became the fastest man. Victor, friend, keep it up but remember that there is a portion in the bible that condemns unwise eating and gluttony abi?
Lancelot Imasuen’s got a ‘bodyguard’
NOLLYWOOD director, Lancelot Imasuen, perhaps now moves about with a bodyguard. If not how would you explain what happened at GTB on Bank Anthony Road, Ikeja on Tuesday, January 19 at about 1.16pm? T4T went to the bank close to Sheraton Hotels & Towers to withdraw his tachere money and whom did he see on the long queue other than our dear Lancelot? He was wearing a rather weird designer white shirt over a pair of baggy Jean trousers. Lancelot was chewing what appeared to be a piece of kolanut that hot afternoon. T4T waited on the sideline for a slip (as if Lancelot wan fall down). None came. So as T4T made to sneak away, Lancelot ‘caught’ him. Trust the Edo State native; he never misses any opportunity to lament the state of the movie industry. It took another 20 minutes before one could run away from the dude and as T4T made to go through those funny doors of the bank, a smiling Johnny Walker, the comedian that also never misses a chance to crack a joke accosted him. He proudly announced that he came with Lancelot. That struck a chord in T4T. So, Walker is now Lancelot’s ‘bodyguard’? Or was the money he came to withdraw so much that he needed extra security? He should have hired one of those loud, lousy bullion vans! Anyway, this piece of information is for your consumption only, no be say you go dey go dey tell pipu say I talk say Lancelot don get bodyguard o.
... Still on Johnny Walker
LATER that evening, T4T ran into Johnny Walker at O’jez. He was sitting with Nollywood star, Ejike Asiegbu. T4T sat close to them. Minutes later, foods and drinks began to arrive the table like it was raining. Then Walker became agitated, he was not sitting at a vantage position, so, it was an uphill task for him to get a fair share of the goodies. Typical of Niger Deltans, he protested and when nobody listened to him, he moved his seat close to comedy actor, Victor Osuagwu. He began to enjoy like others and you needed to see the smile on his face. There is nothing like free dinner and drinks.
Help, Sonny Mcdon can’t send SMS!
DO you know that Nollywood star, Sonny Mcdon, cannot send simple telephone SMS? You now know anyway. The actor last week sent T4T an SMS, and it came blank. I was curious, perhaps that particular mobile phone company that is fast gaining notoriety for network problems, has started again, so, I thought. Then hours later, I saw his missed call which was followed with another blank text message. Trust T4T, he became curious. Days later, after the two had talked and T4T had asked Mcdon to send some information to him, he got yet another blank SMS. Then the nickel dropped, Sonny Mcdon can’t send an SMS! T4T confronted him on the matter and he smiled and waved it away. See what our stars are? Well, thank God there is a T4T who continuously tells you what these people do and who they truly are. Dis T4T na wa o, hmm.
Opa Williams’ got five generators!
HAVE you been to comedy merchant Opa Williams’ office on Sam Sonibare Street, Surulere, Lagos, recently? Please do and you will be amazed because Ose as he is fondly called is a living testimony of a failed nation. Opa has five power generating sets! T4T counted three yellow generators and two red ones last week Thursday. And sadly, Opa was overheard asking someone to find out for him the price of a giant generator from a particular company that people have accused of being the mafia behind the poor public power supply (how, I do not know). Dear President Yar Adua, you see what you are doing to people like Opa Williams? Soon, someone will mistake his office for a generator warehouse and one day ask the price for one of his yellow ones. To God be the glory sha.
... As Ejike Asiegbu goes to school
FORMER president of Actors Guild of Nigeria, Ejike Asiegbu, as you are reading this, may have travelled to Enugu State to begin a crash course on how to fix mobile phones, especially barring calls from some particular persons (there are so many enemies in Nollywood now). He was so worked up on how to bar a particular number that had been pestering him for quite some time last week at a popular hangout, and then he recalls that Chinedu, one of the Aki and Paw Paw duos, had taught him in the past. So, he pulled a call across to the pint size fella (don’t know whether he is the Aki or Paw Paw anyway). The midget ran him through the process, but long after they had talked, Ejike was still battling with his phone. Someone suggested he took a flight to Enugu (where the midget actor lives) and take a two-week course. He bought the idea, so do not be surprised when you run into the giant actor at the local wing of the airport and he tells you he is coming from Enugu. You don’t need to ask him what he went for.
Osuagwu eats a baby whale
COMEDIAN, Victor Osuagwu, popularly called Man Na Mumu, and a friend on Tuesday, ate a grilled fish that could pass for a baby whale! The waiter at the popular hangout in National Stadium, Surulere, had a difficult time ferrying the fish from the kitchen to Osuagwu’s table that evening. To add to her woes, the waiter brought it with chips. Victor and his fair-complexion friend settled down to demolish the whale-like fish and T4T noticed that it took them barely 15 minutes to down the giant grilled fish! Geez, that was fast. Even Usain Bolt was not as fast as the duo when he broke the world record and became the fastest man. Victor, friend, keep it up but remember that there is a portion in the bible that condemns unwise eating and gluttony abi?
The return of ‘Domitila’
BY SHAIBU HUSSEINIOver a decade ago, moviegoers filled the Cinema Hall 2 of National Theatre, Lagos, to watch Annette Njemanze play the role of a prostitute in Zeb Ejiro’s film, Domitila. Anne gave a high wire act, which earned her overwhelming acceptance as a screen diva. The sobriquet, ‘Domitila’, soon followed her. That was years before she disappeared from the scene after an auto-crash that nearly killed her. And when she returned almost 13 years after, this time as Bonuwo, one of the female lead characters in Ahmed Yerima’s new play on Niger Delta titled, Little Drops, the humble, respectful, simple minded and warm hearted lady revved and proved she still had something to offer the entertainment scene. Moviedom comes up, close and personal with the star of Silent Night 3, Rattle Snake, All Eyes on Me, Naked, The Evil Thing, Mirror, Waterloo, Sergeant Okoro and Broken Chord.
Missing in action
I have been confronted with such question several times, but let’s look at Nollywood as it is today, whether we want to accept it or not, the industry is crashing and people are just shooting in the name of producing movies. Let me say, however, I don’t want to compromise anything. I don’t want to be seen as someone, who does not understand where she is coming from or where she is headed. I think I will rather wait until the time is ripe and opportunity comes for me to do something that has class, meaning, and above all, educative; otherwise, I may just not be part of it.
Career choice
I actually wanted to read Law. My exploits as a member of the debating society in school influenced my liking for law. I could convince people easily. I was capable of making you buy black for white. But my parents thought otherwise and they decided that I read theatre or mass communication. That was why I ended up in the Creative Arts Department of University of Lagos. I’m grateful for that parental decision, because today, everything that I know and that I have and I ever will have, is tied around the fact that they pushed me into the arts.
Why visual art and not acting
I did not know that I was anything into visual art. It was after my accident that I was forced to do what I was very used to in my early school, which was drawing and painting. I just realized that it was still there. But then again, I had a diploma in theatre arts from the University of Port Harcourt. Those of us who did that programme would affirm that it was very intense. It was like putting in four years.
Growing up in Port Harcourt
My growing up years were in Port Harcourt. I am not the only child of the family. Mummy is from Adamawa State and daddy is from Owerri, Imo State. I’m my mother’s first daughter. My father has a son, who is doing well in the police force. My father was with NEPA. I had my early education at the Army Children’s School, Port Harcourt and secondary education at the Federal Government Girl’s College, Benue State. It is very close to my mum’s place; Adamawa. So, it was easy for me to travel down there each time for holidays. However, work and demand of life made me relocate to Lagos and that was how I got into the University of Lagos to study visual arts.
Amaka Igwe & me
She was the first person I guess that auditioned me in Lagos. It was for Rattle Snake. But we didn’t shoot the film until I had done True Confession with Kenneth Nnebue. Shortly after, we shot the film and that was it. I would have done up to 30 movies but nothing more than that. Actually, at a time, I didn’t want to get involved in any production until I was sure how it was going to be marketed. There was no point working and not getting any return on investment. So, I acted in a few works, did a couple of stage plays such as Azagidi with Don Pedro Obaseki and then Hopes of the Living Dead with Ola Rotimi here at the National Theatre.
Acting break
I think it was True Confession that did it for me. It threw me into limelight, but Domitila was very big. It was about the first street movie that was done then. At that time, our themes centred on love and rituals. But Domitila was a re-enactment of how people were sending their kids abroad for prostitution. To play Domitila, I had to travel to Edo State to learn how to speak their kind of Pidgin English. I also had to shed some weight and we had to hang out with prostitutes at popular joints in Lagos so as to understudy them. The only thing we didn’t do was to sleep with them in their brothels. It paid off. The publicity was massive and people rushed to the theatre to see the film. The Domitila name stuck. It has been very difficult to convince people that we are two different people. When I walk on the street and people call me Domitila, I don’t take offence. It actually makes me realize that the movie got down well with many people.
The unfortunate car crash
I had to be away for two years. It was almost impossible for me to work and afterwards, I had to do about five surgeries. It is not very okay to be a woman and not be able to earn money the way you want to and you are actually spending the ones you have. And I had people telling me sorry here and there and I didn’t find it funny. It was as if it was the end of it all for me. I found myself hiding from people that I knew, from fans and the media. Again, I was frustrated because everything I had in me literary wise, I could not bring out because of my condition. But well, the time is past. Thank God for friends that I had. I am here today and I know it can only be better.
Segun Arinze, me and all that noise
I actually thought I was going to die with all the noise people made about our break up. But then again, it made me understand that different people view situations differently. I’m the type of person who would go behind doors and cry and come out to the public and have a bold face. But he (Segun Arinze) was the kind of person who would come out and tell you how bitter he felt not minding who was listening and laughing in public. And of course, the media rode on that. Today, we are friends. If there is anything we regret, it was the fact that it got as public as it did.
Gains of the profession
Yes, it has been very rewarding. There is always room to grow. But I would not lie. There was a time in my life, when I thought I was in a wrong profession. The jobs were not coming but my father told me that the time would come. For the arts, it is just time. For God, he turns the table around for you at the appropriate time. I had to look inside of me and I realised that inside of me is a lady of many parts — a painter, writer, producer, actress and dancer. What I like about my job is that I enjoy it. While I’m working, I am catching fun. I think the point for me when it looked, as though I wanted to explode was when I got a letter from the National Troupe as a staff. I considered it another ground to grow.
Role models
When I was growing up, I looked up to people like Barbara Soky. Then there was Sadiq Daba and the like of Bongos Ikwue in music and then Onyeka Onwenu and Christie Essien Igbokwe. I saw these people as my hero and as success stories that I could learn from. As for past time, I still do my paintings now and again and I give them out to art galleries. I also find time to write. I have a column I write for High Society magazine. It is called True Fame Blues.
Career ambition
I hope that someday, I will be an authority in this industry. I hope that someday mediocrity and lack of intelligence as far as arts is concerned in the Nigerian circle would have reduced and I would be part of the people who would help to reduce it so that parents could be proud to have their children in the arts. That is my dream.
Love life
As for marriage, everyday, I pray and hope that I find love. But years of experience have taught me to be very careful and to thread with caution. I just want to be able to excel for as much as I want, and if eventually, I have a man in my life, who says he adores the ground I walk on and is proud of me for my intellect and he is proud of me for my strength, and for the fact that I have been a single mother and I understand what it is to be one, so be it.
Around and about Nollywood...
Afolayan’s The Figurine, puts Nigeria on the International map
ON January 28, Kunle Afolayan’s The Figurine will be screened at the Rotterdam Film Festival (International Film Festival of Rotterdam in the Netherlands). One of the five major film festivals in Europe, it is the first time that a Nigerian film has been invited to show. “The film made it there purely on merit. It was by official selection and not nominated by an agency,” said Afolayan. “The entries had even closed before they called me. They want the film at all costs and they are excited to see The Figurine.” Afolayan said efforts aimed at getting government’s support for the have not yielded results. At the Abuja premiere of the film, the Minister of Information and Communications, Prof Dora Akunyili, pledged assistance for all its international screenings. The film festival, which has a history of being favourable to independent filmmakers, a category in which Afolayan falls, provides opportunity for networking among filmmakers. There are also chances for industry screenings as well at the festival. In the second week of February, Afolayan will also be at the Berlinale Film Festival, Berlin, Germany, to show the film. In the festival, he will be sitting on a panel with two other notable filmmakers from Africa, Oliver Hermanus of South Africa and Caroline Kamya of Uganda. They will discuss the state of African cinema. Dorothy Wenner will moderate the session. On February 25, the film will be showing at the Smithsonian National Museum of Arts in Washington. In April, he will be at the African Film Festival in New York for another premiere. The New York premiere is coming after London’s, an occasion that witnessed huge turnout of people when it held recently. At the first appearance at the Silverbird Cinemas, the film had a turnover of N15 million, an unprecedented sum for any Nigerian film ever shown there. Afolayan said, “the challenge is to stay creative and make good films. It is not getting into my head yet. With all the successes recorded by Irapada, it didn’t get into my head.” He added, “there is a collection of academic essays on The Figurine being written by some professors in Nigeria and abroad.”
Zuma Film Festival holds May 2010
ALL is now set for the hosting of the 5th edition of the biennial ZUMA Film Festival organised by the Nigerian Film Corporation (NFC), scheduled to take place in Abuja from May 2 to 6, 2010. Call for entries opens on December 1, 2009 and closes February 28, 2010. The theme for this year’s edition is Global Images Global Voices, which according to the organisers, seek to consolidate on the gains of previous editions. Interested participants can make enquiries by e-mail to md@nigfilmcorp.com. Similarly, entry forms can be obtained and returned to any of the Corporations offices in Lagos, Abuja, Kano and Jos.
March date for Fribourg International Film Festival
THE organisers of 24th Fribourg International Film Festival (FIFF) have begun accreditation of international filmmakers to the festival, which holds in Fribourg, Switzerland, from March 13 to 20. Since its foundation, the festival has committed itself to the promotion of cultural diversity. Its programme features essentially work from Asia, Africa and Latin America. Each year, the festival plays host to a hundred or so national and international premieres. Today, the FIFF carries the reputation of an unparalleled platform for creative and cultural exchanges; furthermore, the event distinguishes itself as a Mecca of cinematographic discoveries. It enjoys an excellent international reputation, and is also recognized as a national reference. The artistic director of the FIFF is Edouard Waintrop, a former film critic for Libération. The competition section of the festival introduces around 12 feature films and documentaries completed during the year preceding the current festival, and which have not yet been screened in Switzerland or in Europe. The Grand Prize carries a CHF 30’000 reward. There is also the Panoramas, Retrospectives and Short Films. In that section, the thematic programmes featuring five to 18 films are compiled by the artistic director or film specialists. These films approach and discuss current trends, question established genres, reveal uncharted episodes of film history and pay tribute to personalities of outstanding merit. The short film programmes present the work of young contemporary filmmakers. The forum@fiff platform is dedicated to film professionals and hosts conferences, debates and encounters that promote the exchange of experiences, deepening of knowledge and networking in general. Filmmakers can get additional information on the festival at www.fiff.ch.
Waka pass…
Producer- Amebo A. Amebo
Director- Mr. Gossip
Actors- Nollywood Celebrities
This is for Nollywood Mugabe
THE waka pass, who sold this gist to us for a recharge card, did so with a caveat, that we must name names. Anyway the gist is that, they said that Nollywood is brewing a Mugabe and that if care is not taken, the person in question may even walk into history books as the longest serving ‘president’ of the world. The waka pass said the person is president of one of the associations (dem no say whether na man or woman) and that the person has refused to vacate office almost 10 years after. She continued, it doesn’t look as though the person is ready to relinquish power because of the attention he or her gets and the fact that anything that is good for association or guild heads is also good for him or her. The waka pass said if that fails, they would not need any ‘letter of transmittal’ as Nigeria needs for he or her deputy to take over. Who the Mugabe be? Na for my mouth you wan hear say sister Uche Jombo don change her motor on the back of her run-away success ‘Nollywood Hustlers’. True, e be like say, e pay to be producer and actress at the same time.
Ladi Joy Tortey is not back yet
SLIM beauty and one of Nollywood fast rising actresses, Ladi Joy Tortey, is back in London. The Kaduna State-born actress and an alumnus of the University of Jos, whose other love after acting is swimming was in London late last year to receive an award at the ZAFAA 2009. But this time, Ladi told one waka pass who is close to another waka pass that we know that she is in London, to improve herself. One waka pass thought she meant that she went for ‘body tuck’, (that is, the senior brother of that tummy tuck that killed someone we all know) and so wondered what is there to tuck again on Ladi when Baba God has already done the tucking. It was later that we gathered from a close source that her trip to London has nothing to do with ‘tucking’; rather, it had to do with a search for a learning platform. Meaning that; Ladi aka Snake Girl (that alias stuck after she played lead in a film titled Snake Girl) go find school wey she go enter for London to better her acting’. Ehee, na now matter clear. Anyway Ladi, abeg halla us when you return because seeing is believing. Some waka pass still think say there is more to the London trip considering say na London na him Shan George and Co waka go in search of learning platform wey dem bring runaway husbands come back. We no know book ooo….but until we see you, our one plus one equal two! To God Be the Glory.
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