₦airaland Forum

FCT Residents Rejoice As PCRC Gets New Patrons, Inaugurates Garki Unit Executive

The Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) Garki unit, FCT Abuja has inaugurated new executives, unit coordinators as well as welcome new members, ABUJAPRESS reports.

This comes as the committee inaugurated Dr. Stephen Osadebay as its Chairman, Garki division.

The inauguration which was performed at Garki police station, Garki village Abuja was performed by DPO of Garki division DSP Lamido Alkali, an event hosted by Dr. Rufus Ebegba the chairman PCRC FCT command.

Others who made it to the new leadership of the unit include, Mr. Rashid Oniyangi of Rapid TV, Mr Tomike Anokwu the FCT Auditor PCRC, Alex Nwankwo, Hon Zainab Aliyu the FCT Treasurer PCRC and Dr. Adebayo Micheal Deji.

The inauguration was witnessed by Inspector John Ishaya the DCO of Garki police station and DSP Johnson Oviohen.

Members of the new exco were also presented with certificates of recognition.

Olive Peace Foundation Takes Succour To IDP Camp To Celebrate Christmas

A humanitarian, ex beauty queen ( Miss Ambassador For Peace South West) and entrepreneur, Queen Adeniji Seidatu Temitope has brought smile to faces of the underprivileged and internally displaced persons in Abuja in the spirit of Christmas, sharing rice, noodles, toiletries and other relief materials to them.

The outreach, which was conducted by her non-governmental organization, Olive Peace Foundation in collaboration with her business brand, ICTQueen is basically in the spirit of the reason for the season — Christ who the Bible records demonstrated love.

"The Bible commands that we should love the way God has loved us. It is also recorded that we should love our neighbours the way we love ourselves. That is what I have demonstrated", she told news men shortly after distributing the relief materials.

The Fashion Entrepreneur and Forex Trader expert says sharing love this season with these less privileged people gives her a great sense of joy, looking forward to being the reason someone will smile.

Queen Adeniji, whose foundation is basically focused in human capital development and skills acquisition especially in the areas of fashion designing, carpentry, hair dressing, education on financial market said she will continue to champion the campaign for youths to learn fishing using their skills.

Her foundation apart from organising free training that helps people secure dream jobs also provides guidance that helps them secure capital to start their business.

The benefitting communities were full of thanks to the beautifully endowed young lady with the heart of gold as they prayed for her and her team for success in all they do.

It was a show of love like never before as a leading non-governmental organisation, PS Women Health Foundation in collaboration with Vichiano Events touched the lives of less privileged persons in Abuja community.

It was the 2024 edition of the Foundation's annual Christmas giveaway and the holiday village market, spar market road in Lifecamp Abuja was the venue for the distribution of relief items estimated at millions of naira.

Speaking at the giveaway outreach, the founder of the Foundation, Victoria Iheakonye said the 2024 edition of the outreach, which comes the same year the foundation is marking its 8th anniversary is an opportunity reflect on the gains made so far.

"We want to appreciate all our sponsors who have been with us all the while, especially my dear sister the CEO of May 8 Gallery. My entire family, my mother who is my prayer warrior, I am grateful to you.

"Spotlight nation and all their artists, you have been very wonderful. Moses Bliss Foundation has also been one of our supporters, I appreciate you all that have supported us this year, not forgetting the Christmas Village", she stated.

According to her, the Foundation's main focus is to impact the lives of women to give them access to economic opportunities that help them make a decent living.

She noted that women are pillars that make the society worth living in and should be supported to make a good living by all, especially with the roles they play in bringing stability and orderliness at homes.

At the Christmas giveaway, items such as sewing machines, grinding machines, hair dryer, food stuff, wrappers and others were given to women.

Also, the annual empowerment outreach was an opportunity to teach the women soap making, bead making, head gear making and more.

The event also full-blown party which helped residents to relax, chill and unwind.

Notable artists performed including choir for the blind to sing Christmas carol and it was full of fun for both children and adults as there was music, dance and games.

Beneficiaries could not hold their emotions as they were move to tears of joy.

They also prayed for the foundation, its founders and partners for the kind gesture, praying God to replenish them.

Jabi Lake Mall Ushers in the Festive Spirit with Fun, Love, and Community Engagement

Abuja, FCT – Jabi Lake Mall, the leading shopping and lifestyle destination in the heart of Abuja, has transformed into a magical wonderland this festive season with the launch of its vibrant Christmas Village. Packed with exciting activities, games, and the much-loved Santa’s Grotto, the mall has created an unforgettable holiday experience for shoppers of all ages.

The Christmas Village is designed to spread joy and create lasting memories. Families can explore various fun-filled attractions, engage in holiday-themed games, and take pictures with Santa himself, making it a destination of choice for festive celebrations. With an array of exclusive offers across the mall, shoppers can find the perfect gifts while enjoying the true spirit of Christmas.

As part of its commitment to Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), Jabi Lake Mall extended the season’s cheer to the less privileged by hosting three orphanages: SOS Children’s Villages, Zunye Orphanage, and Abuja Children’s Home. This heartwarming initiative provided an opportunity to share love, joy, and hope with the children, ensuring they experience the magic of Christmas. The mall’s management highlighted the importance of societal care for the less privileged, reinforcing the need for collective efforts in building a more compassionate community.

“At Jabi Lake Mall, we believe the festive season is about giving, sharing, and creating moments that matter,” said Abiola Oparinde, Marketing Manager. “Through our Christmas Village and outreach activities, we aim to spread joy to not only our shoppers but also the community around us, emphasizing the importance of kindness and love.”
Shoppers visiting the mall can also look forward to discounts, special deals, and festive promotions across various outlets, making this the perfect time to shop, celebrate, and indulge. With its picturesque lake view and immersive experiences, Jabi Lake Mall promises to make this yuletide season one to remember.

About Jabi Lake Mall Jabi Lake Mall is Abuja’s premier lifestyle and shopping destination, offering an unparalleled mix of retail, dining, entertainment, and leisure experiences. With its scenic lakeside location, the mall continues to set the benchmark for world-class experiences, bringing people together to shop, dine, and create memories.

FG Must Not Ignore Demands Of Biafra Agitators, Igbo Traditional Ruler In Abuja Warns

The Eze Igbo 1 of Maitama, Abuja, HRH Eze Amb. David Kingston Okey-Dede has urged the federal government to take the calls for self-determination by Biafran agitators seriously and address their marginalization concerns through constructive dialogue, ABUJAPRESS reports.

He made these remarks during the 2024 New Yam Festival, an event organized by his office in collaboration with the Ohaneze Ndigbo and the Igbo Community in Maitama on December 7, 2024.

The traditional ruler advised Ndigbo both at home and in the Diaspora. "I bring you this message with a heart filled with both pride and concern. Pride in our resilience, resourcefulness, and rich heritage that define us as a people of dignity and innovation.

"However, I am also concerned about the rising challenges that threaten our unity and progress, both at home and abroad. As your humble servant and Eze Igbo of Maitama, I feel compelled to address these issues and call for peace, unity, and brotherly love among our people", he noted.

On the State of South East, he said, "Our beloved South East region is currently engulfed in turmoil, fear, and insecurity. From economic struggles to political instability, our homeland faces one of its most challenging periods in recent history

"Central to this crisis is the incarceration of our son, Mazi Nnamdi Kanu. His ongoing detention by the Department of State Services (DSS) has become a symbol of the larger grievances faced by ndi Igbo in Nigeria."

According ABUJAPRESS, Eze Okey-Dede emphasized the need for the federal government to address the root causes of these challenges, rather than merely treating the symptoms. "The cry for self-determination must not be ignored; it should be channeled through dialogue, understanding, and mutual respect. I call on the Federal Government to prioritize justice and fairness by releasing Mazi Nnamdi Kanu unconditionally. His release would not only quell the growing agitation but also pave the way for meaningful discussions about our nation's future."

He further cautioned against violent protests, stating, "While we demand justice from the government, we must also hold ourselves accountable. Destructive actions such as burning our homes, shutting down markets, and attacking our own in the name of protest only serve to weaken our collective strength. The South East is the cradle of Igbo civilization; we must protect and develop it, not destroy it."

Eze Okey-Dede also addressed the challenges faced by the Igbo community abroad. "While our homeland struggles, so too do our people in the diaspora. Reports of infighting, envy, and disunity among Ndigbo abroad are deeply troubling. In many countries, Igbo organizations are splintered into factions, each claiming to represent our true interests. This divisiveness undermines our collective strength and tarnishes our reputation globally."

He urged the diaspora to remember their legacy: "Wherever you go, you carry the legacy of ndi Igbo. Let brotherly love prevail. Differences in opinion should never lead to enmity; instead, let us embrace our diversity as a source of strength. Establish councils of elders to mediate disputes and promote accountability among our leaders. Remember, when we stand united, no force can break us."

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gBMCtHTePgY?si=Nm1_rZ-P4DHd8qrj

Family, friends and well wishers converged in Abuja, the nation's capital to celebrate a giant feat achieved by Nigeria's Martina Abang Chukwuma-Ezike, who became the first black woman to be elected the Lord rector of the University of Aberdeen since its existence in the last 500 years, ABUJAPRESS reports.

The Cross River born CEO of the Asthma and Allergy Foundation, Scotland, United Kingdom was recently officially installed as the Rector of the university at a ceremony at the university's Kings College Chapel.

Martina is a graduate of the University of Aberdeen, having completed her MBA in 2009, and has a longstanding relationship with the student body, offering mentoring, volunteering and work placement opportunities at the Asthma and Allergy Foundation which she founded in 2009.

Martina has a range of skills and experience occupying several management positions within the oil & gas sector and from her time leading a charity with national reach.

Her election as the Lord rector of the University of Aberdeen in Scotland came with a lot of excitement in Nigeria as friends and family rolled out the red carpet in her celebration.

In celebration of this historic feat, a reception was organised in Abuja's Transcorp Hilton to honour this outstanding Nigerian.

A former governor of Cross River State, Liyel Imoke and other dignitaries recognized the significance of her new office and how she has made the country proud in a foreign land.

Imoke applauded her courage and described her as a woman with a 'good heart'

He said, "She's accomplished more than people accomplished in lifetime outside of her own country. When she was speaking and we were listening to her, I was wondering whether, if she had remained in Nigeria, should have accomplished so much.

"This is a good reason for us as Nigerians to have and hold her up as a role model. She's a wonderful young woman who has done so much, not just for herself and her family, but also for us. It's a time we celebrate people like that. I'm glad we have the opportunity to celebrate this highly accomplished young woman".

Also speaking, Catherine Agba Ajibike, the representative of the Head of Alumni Association, University of Aberdeen said Martina is a clear example that the girl child can achieve a lot of supported.

According to her, time has come for women to be given a chance in the boardroom to showcase their skills and talent for the development of the society.

Her father, Soni Abang said as a father, he played a vital role in her life and give her necessary support she needed to succeed.

He said because of his daughter, anytime he visited Scotland, he gets a treatment every other citizen of the UK gets.

In her remarks, according to ABUJAPRESS Martina urged young people to have confidence in themselves and believe that they can achieve anything anyone else can achieve, saying Nigerians have the talent and skills.

"I want every little young girl watching this to know that being a girl does not stop you from achieving great thing. If I can do it, they too can do it", she added.

Bishop Ugokwe Prince, Other Clerics Nominated For Christian Pilgrimage

The president/founder of Christian Muslim Love Lead and Care Foundation, Bishop Ugokwe Ugochukwu Prince has been nominated by the Vice President, Kashim Shettima for Christian pilgrimage in Israel, ABUJAPRESS reports.

He was nominated along with other clerics for the important religious trip where they are expected to pray for the country.

His nomination and approval letter was handed over to him by the Executive Secretary, Nigerian Christian Pilgrim Commission (NCPC) Bishop Stephen Tunde Victor Adegbite.

Bishop Ugochukwu Prince who was asked to officiate in the opening prayers asked God to rest His hand upon the government of President Ahemd Bola Tinubu Gcfr and all state governors to ensure their success and the growth of the country.He also pray for the newly inaugurated Board of NCPC. Lead by the ES Bishop Dr Stephen Tunde Victor Adegbite JP. That God shall grant them success as the National Christain Pilgrims Commission remain the only Christain Embassy in Nigeria says Bishop prince ugokwe.. presiding bishop of Yoke Breakers Prophetic ministry Abuja.

He expressed gratitude to the administration President Tinubu for the opportunity to go to the Holy Land, applauding him for his efforts in uniting the body of Christ and the country in general.

Bishop Ugokwe who is also one of the influencers of National Interreligious leaders Prayer Summit is an ardent advocate for CNG cars in Nigeria.

The revered man of God is popularly referred to as Tinubu number one bishop.

According to ABUJAPRESS, this is not unconnected with the role he played in marketing the Muslim-Muslim ticket of the APC during the unveiling of the running mate of Tinubu, Sen. Kashim Shettima at Yar’Adua Centre Abuja. In 2022/2023

He along with his other colleagues were attacked in the media space but despite that, he remained consistent in telling Nigerians that the APC was the way to go for the betterment of the country.

Top Board Members of NCPC were also on ground to witness the official presentation of the letter.

Rev. Amb Simon Dolly who spoke on behalf of other federal commissioners thanked the government and Vice President Shettima for this kind gesture.

UNIBEN Best Graduating Student Gifted ₦1 Million by Prof. Chris Imumolen

Okpako Ogheneochuko, the best graduating student in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Benin for the 2021/2022 academic session, has been celebrated in a grand way. Known for achieving an outstanding CGPA of 4.80/5.00, Okpako recently sparked conversations online after revealing on social media that he received just ₦5,000 as a prize for his academic excellence.

His statement went viral, drawing attention to the need for better recognition of academic achievements in Nigerian institutions.

During the UNIBEN Alumni Association Award Night held in Lagos, Professor Chris Imumolen, a distinguished alumnus of the University of Benin's Department of Mechanical Engineering, stepped forward to reward Okpako’s remarkable feat with ₦1 million. Prof. Imumolen, known for his unwavering commitment to supporting students in Nigeria and beyond, acknowledged the young scholar’s dedication and excellence.

Prof. Imumolen's generosity extends beyond one-time acts of support. He has announced the establishment of an annual award for the best graduating student in Mechanical Engineering at UNIBEN. This initiative aims to inspire academic excellence and provide a platform for high-performing students to be adequately recognized and rewarded.

This gesture by Prof. Imumolen not only underscores the value of academic excellence but also sets a precedent for fostering a culture of encouragement and reward for outstanding students in Nigeria. It is a call to individuals and organizations to invest in the nation's bright minds, ensuring that merit and hard work receive the recognition they deserve

World AIDS Day: Rotary Club Jabi Lakeside Calls For Collective Action to Fight Scourge

As the global community marks World AIDS Day, Rotary Club of Abuja Jabi Lakeside has called for a collective action to tackle the scourge, decrying poor access to health care among community.

The President of Rotary Club, Jabi Lakeside Abuja, Amobi Ogum gave this advice in a statement on Sunday, noting that time has come to raise awareness and curb the spread of HIV.

Citing WHO record, he said about 90 million people have been infected with HIV, and approximately 45 million people have died from AIDS-related illnesses.

"As at the end of 2023, around 40 million people were reported to be living with HIV worldwide. Sadly, Africa has been the hardest hit by this epidemic, with one in every 30 adults living with HIV, accounting for more than two-thirds of the global population living with HIV", he stated.

He reiterated the commitment of Rotary Club Jabi Lakeside Abuja to contribute meaningfully to the health of communities.

"As Rotarians, today presents an opportunity to reflect on how far we've come in addressing the HIV/AIDS crisis. But more importantly, it is a call to action. As people of service, we must recognize that in many communities, access to treatment is still limited, and basic education about the disease remains a significant challenge", he added.

He announced that Rotary Club of Abuja Jabi Lakeside will embark on a visit to HIV/AIDS patients to offer encouragement and financial support.

"Additionally, in collaboration with some NGOs and a few of our friends, we will distribute condoms to underserved areas as a small but meaningful step toward raising awareness and curbing the spread of the virus", the statement noted.

He called for more compassionate action, and commitment to creating lasting change, adding that this is what the fight against HIV/AIDS demands, "collective action driven by empathy and a shared commitment and responsibility to build a healthier world."

How Poverty, Hunger Chased Me Into Comedy — Spontaneous MC Odey D Uncommon Comedian Speaks


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7qrPl9agk4?si=4ImBjWW0bRZQ1L2Q

Nigeria's next rated and Abuja-based entertainer, MC and comedian, Mr Odey Jacobs , popularly known as Mr. Odey D Uncommon Comedian has revealed his he discovered his talent after he was unemployed for year, a situation that exposed him to hunger and poverty.

Speaking with AbujaPress, the renowned Nigerian Stand-up comedian, and Master of Ceremonies who is rated as one of the most influential comedians in Abuja said he cut his first teeth in the industry at Mount Zion parish of RCCG in Mpape, at the teenage unit where he used to entertain the kids.

Mr. Odey D Uncommon Comedian who schooled at Newton College in Mpape and later Model Secondary School, Maitama said he started moving from one corner of the city to another, especially at talent hunts, seeking for opportunity to perform.

He was opportuned to perform at National Comedy Challenge, Charley Boy's Raw Talent challenge and several others.

After his secondary school, he organised his first comedy show tagged, "Mpape Must Laugh" on February 12th, 2011 which had in attendance many influential comedians, including Youngest Old Man, Amb. Wahala, MC Sam, MC Godpikin, Walebaba and others.

It took place at the only resort then in Mpape at back of Crush Rock.

He anchored several events thereafter, searching for better opportunities and later got a radio platform and worked with Wale Baba as a freelance reporter at Love FM and later Tori-wowor with Amb. Wahala.

He also worked as a freelancer with ITV where he anchored his show called "Area With Mr. Odey".

His talent has taken him to several big stages, including Laughter on the Loose" organised by Omar Omar, Youngest Old Man comedy show and others.

At Most Beautiful Girl in Abuja beauty pageant show, he also put up an excellent performance at Transcorp Hilton hotel where the big event took place.

In 2019, he performed at Night of Thousands Laugh organised by Yanki tech.

He has hosted many shows in Abuja, including the popular Love & Laughter which took place at Sheraton hotel Abuja (now Abuja Continental hotel) in 2021, having the likes of Gordons AY, Koboko master, Chuks D General, and very influential Nollywood stars.

He also organized Mr. Odey Uncommonly Funny, a Jan. 1, 2022, making him the first Abuja comedian after Ali Baba to host a successful comedy show on Jan. 1

Some of his notable performances include, African Music Festival (AFRIMMA), Comedy Titans Awards, Lagos Comedy Festival, Nigeria Music Video Awards (NMVA), Yala Achievers Award, AY Live and Gordons Comedy Show.

Others are, Calabar Carvinal, Democracy Hero Award, Christmas In The City, Peace Achiever Awards, The Big Concert, Leadership Excellence Awards, TIMI Dakolo Concert, Democracy Heroes Award and several others.

He has set out plans to hit Abuja by the storm with his first major comedy show for 2025 taking place on 23 February.

This is expected to have in attendance notable personalities in the industry as it is his first major show after a little break.

Behold, The New Crowned Queen of University of Abuja.

Princess Chidera Chukwudi a 17years old undergraduate of UniAbuja has emerged the new queen of the prestigious institution in the capital city of Nigeria in a well contested beauty pageant of 2024/25 contest.

Born into the family of Mr and Mrs Ibe Chukwudi of Oru East LGA of Imo State, Chidera with a stage name _ERAH_, a beautiful, elegant and intelligent, emerged as the newly crowned winner out of 11 other contestants. Her well deserved victory sent waves of excitements across the institution and beyond as her talent and captivating beauty won the hearts of judges and spectators alike.

In her interview with Abujapress, she states :
_" I feel so happy and grateful to God for this rare opportunity as the crown queen of the Almighty University of Abuja among other beautiful contestants, this is an opportunity for me to work even harder for greater exploit because time waits for no one, the future is now"_

Her journey to the top was marked by her beauty, captivating stage control, and impressive display talent and moreso, her exhibition of confidence.

Her emergence serves as an inspiration to young people to believe in themselves and put in their very best whenever they are called upon to showcase their talents.

_ERAH_ is an upcoming artist, a model and a young entrepreneur. undoubtedly she is geared to be famous to the globe through her talent.

The new crowned queen of the only Federal University in Abuja will no doubt serve as an inspiration to many youths in the country. Watch out for her music singles coming out soon.