The Governor of Edo State, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, welcomed Ambassador Phil Roberts, the Executive Director of the Tourism Volunteers Network (TVN), to the Edo State Government House.
The meeting, which took place in the presence of the Honourable Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Diaspora Affairs, as well as the Permanent Secretary, marked another significant endorsement for the project.
Ambassador Roberts and his team were warmly received by Governor Obaseki, who expressed his admiration for the initiative’s objectives and achievements thus far. “I am delighted to welcome Amb. Phil Roberts and the TVN team to Edo State. Your efforts in promoting tourism through this historic trekking project are commendable, and we are eager to support and collaborate with you,” Governor Obaseki stated.
The Governor emphasized Edo State’s rich cultural heritage and its potential as a major tourist destination in Nigeria. He noted that the state’s diverse attractions, from the ancient Benin Kingdom artifacts to its vibrant festivals, could greatly benefit from the increased visibility that the “Tourism Across the Niger” project would bring. “Edo State is home to a wealth of cultural and historical treasures. Through this partnership with TVN, we aim to showcase our state’s unique offerings to both local and international tourists,” he added.
The Honourable Commissioner for Arts, Culture, Tourism, and Diaspora Affairs, along with the Permanent Secretary, also voiced their support for the TVN initiative. They highlighted the ministry’s ongoing efforts to boost tourism and cultural awareness in Edo State and expressed their enthusiasm for working closely with TVN on future projects.
Historic Trekking Project In response, Ambassador Phil Roberts thanked Governor Obaseki and his team for their warm reception and pledged his commitment to promoting Edo State’s tourism potential. “The endorsement from the Edo State Government is a significant milestone for us. We are excited about the opportunity to collaborate on projects that will enhance the visibility of Edo State’s cultural heritage and tourist attractions,” he said.
The meeting concluded with a commitment to develop new projects aimed at further promoting tourism in Nigeria. Governor Obaseki and Ambassador Roberts agreed to explore initiatives that would not only highlight Edo State but also contribute to the broader goals of the Tourism Volunteers Network in fostering sustainable tourism across the country.
With endorsements from both the federal and state levels, the “Tourism Across the Niger” project continues to gain traction. The collaborative efforts between the Ministry of Tourism, TVN, and state governments like Edo State are poised to make a substantial impact on Nigeria’s tourism industry, encouraging more people to explore the nation’s diverse and rich cultural landscapes.
Tinubu is on the Right Trajectory, Nigerians Should be Patient- Uche Arinze
Leader of Progressive Youth Support group in United Kingdom, Amb Uche Perpetual Arinze has expressed satisfaction with the achievements of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as he celebrates One year in office as the President of Federal Republic of Nigeria. She noted that the President is on the right trajectory with what he has done so far in security ,infrastructural development and the economy ,urging Nigerians to be patient with the administration.
She equally commended President Bola Tinubu for his focus on youth empowerment and strategic ministerial appointments.
In a statement released on Sunday, Uche praised President Tinubu for implementing numerous programs aimed at empowering the youth of Nigeria. She highlighted initiatives such as the Student Loan Scheme,National Talent export programs as part of the commendable programmes of President Tinubu that have continued to receive applause.
"President Tinubu's commitment to youth empowerment is a testament to his understanding of the critical role that young people play in the nation's development," Uche said. "These initiatives will provide our youth with the skills and opportunities they need to succeed and contribute to the growth of our country."
Uche also commended President Tinubu for his appointment of competent and experienced individuals to key ministerial positions. She singled out the appointments of former Rivers State Governor, Nyesom Wike, as Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), former Ebonyi State Governor, Dave Umahi, as Minister of Works and Tunji Ojo, as Minister of Interior.
"These appointments demonstrate President Tinubu's commitment to square pegs in square holes," Uche stated. "These individuals have proven track records of excellence in their respective fields, and I am confident that they will bring their expertise and experience to bear in their current roles."
Speaking Further, Uche acknowledged the ongoing reforms and policies being implemented by the Tinubu administration, which she believes will put Nigeria on the right trajectory. She urged Nigerians to exercise patience as these reforms take time to bear fruit.
"I understand that there are challenges facing our nation, but I believe that President Tinubu is taking the necessary steps to address them," Uche said. "Let us give him the time and support he needs to implement his vision for Nigeria. Let us all work together to build a better future for our country."
It was a meeting of two eminent stars as socialite and international businessman, Olakunle Churchill and his long-standing friend, hip-hop star, David Adeleke popularly known as Davido ran across each other at the popular Vaniti club in Lagos.
Both men exchanged pleasantries in a warmth way to the admiration of their aides.
Churchill who has been out of the country in recent months had just returned from a high profile business engagement with international partners in US & UK.
The duo have maintained their healthy friendship, spanning over ten years.
Philanthropist Kenneth Ifekudu Empowers Anambra Indigenes With Mini Trucks
Billionaire businessman and philanthropist, Chief Kenneth Ifekudu ( Agbalanze Onyekachukwu na Ozubulu) has brought succour and laughter to many families in Anambra State as he empowers 50 persons with mini trucks to support their livelihood.
This is in response to growing economic challenges facing many families across the country, arising from high cost of living, hyper inflation and job losses.
The mini trucks are estimated to worth over N150m.
The empowerment which took place at his home town, Ozubulu in Anambra State is one of similar projects he has carried out in the past to advance his humanitarian and philanthropic programmes.
Ifekudu who recently won the award of businessman of the year of the Sun Newspaper has consistently demonstrated that charity begins at home, which inspired the decision to ensure that people of his community are the first beneficiaries of the empowerment.
Ifekudu, the Chairman of Diamond Leeds Ltd who recently unveiled his multi-billion Naira mansion in Anambra while handing over the mini trucks to the beneficiaries prayed for God's protection upon them as they go about their businesses
A holder of national honour of OFR, he has remained consistent in carrying out very impactful projects in communities.
Not long ago, he completed a road project which was commissioned by the state governor.
The beneficiaries could not hold their joy as they expressed gratitude to the philanthropist and made divine intercessions upon him for progress and prosperity.
The Empowerment exercise was attended by The Chairman of Seahorse Lubricants, Dr Ebuka Onunkwo, Barr. Ezeani Igwilo, President of Imperial Majesty, Chief Dr Darlington Nwabunike(Egonejeije) and Okwumeleze and some other notable dignitaries as witnesses to the event.
Nigerian multi-talented comedian, Onwunarugwu Ndubuisi Joseph, popularly known by the stage name Shortcut was in the entourage that thrilled UK audience in a recently concluded comedy show.
He along with his colleagues, including mc Bob brought laughter in the faces of their guests during Sabinus Live in UK Tour, which was spearheaded by one of Africa's biggest exports comedian, Chukwuemeka Emmanuel Ejekwu, popularly called Sabinus.
Shortcut, who is proficient in shows and event packaging and MC Bob were stars of the nights in most cities in the UK toured during the show which lasted from March 7th till April 5th.
Shortcut, who is the CEO of Shortcut Entertainment has packaged high profile comedy and music shows in Nigeria on behalf of his clients and he has proven to be highly competent, reliable and delivers topnotch shows that leave fun memories in the minds of guests.
He is the arrowhead in the packaging of upcoming comedy comedy show in Abuja, Sarkin Dariya Multiple Laffs. He is also packaging Brainjotter Live in Abuja coming up soon.
He was in all 14 cities tour during the Sabinus Live in UK and put up sterling performance along with MC Bob because of their unique ways of entertaining their audience.
The tour is seen as a significant millage in his comedy career, especially exposure to international audience as Sabinus particularly insisted on having him as part of the team.
It was also an opportunity to sell the Nigerian entertainment content to the global comedy. The creativity of the duo of Shortcut and MC Bob elicited excitement in the minds of Nigerians in Diaspora and other nationals in UK.
Our correspondent gathered that their demand on the international stage is on the rise following the mind-blowing performances they exhibited. It was an exciting moment for all Nigerians at the show as they saw their nationals flying their nation's flag high.
Shortcut, an outstanding skitmaker also displayed his craft in the presentation of the character of Onowu, with his traditional and unique brown and red cap outfit, a superb performance that has sparked reactions from fans.
The tour was colourful as feedbacks indicate that UK fans are eager for another entertainment experience from these Nigerian talents.
Shortcut's social media platforms have also received significant followerships, arising from the success of the tour in UK, standing at above 2 million followers across board.
Sabinus is seen as one of the biggest African comedians, MCs, and digital content creators. He gained recognition for his hilarious content and started his comedy journey in 2015 by uploading funny skits on social media platforms.
His videos often feature distinctive facial expressions that add to their humor. He has also helped in mentoring young entertainers across Nigeria. Some of his mentees were recently rewarded with brand new cars for their loyalty and hard work.
Nigerian entrepreneur and socialite, Olakunle Churchill has splashed a multi million Naira brand new SUV, 2024 brand new Chevrolet blazer on his beautiful daughter, Amelia in demonstration of his love, an automobile estimated to cost about N52m.
His beautiful wife and Gambia-born Nollywood actress, Rosy Meurer who made this known in a social media post said the car is a surprise gift to their daughter from her husband.
"Surprise gift from Papa to his baby girl Amelia .
"Chevrolet blazer 2024.
"Thank you papa, we love it and WE LOVE YOU", she said.
This post on Instagram as at the moment of this report has garnered over 25k reactions with multiple thousands of comments.
This is not the first time Churchill, an international businessman and ICT specialist is acquiring a new car in celebration of his babies. He has established a tradition of acquiring latest state-of-the-art automobiles to demonstrate his love for them.
He did a similar thing for his first son with his ex-wife, Tonto Dike. He bought Escalade GMC.
He also bought an exotic car for his first son with Rosy Meurer and eventually extending a similar gesture to his second born with Meurer, Amelia.
A philanthropist, he is known for the seriousness he attaches to his marital life.
Meanwhile, social media has gone abuzz with congratulatory messages from fans of Rosy Maurer who first broke the news.
Top dignitaries have joined in the public presentation and launching of the book ‘Politics, X and Power' a critical literary work on the Nigerian politics written by an ace broadcast journalist, Adaora Onyechere Sydney-Jack.
Presented recently in Abuja, the book according to the author is to underscore the shrinking opportunities for women participation in politics in Nigeria.
The book by Onyechere, a gender activist and Executive Director of Gender Strategy Advancement International (GSAI) has been described as bold, provocative and revealing.
Among dignitaries who graced the occasion include former governor of Imo State, Emeka Ihedioha, Minister of State for Labour and Employment Hon. Nkiruka Onyejeocha, Nollywood star Monalisa Chinda, former governor of Cross River state, Liyel Imoke, National Women Leader the Peoples Democratic Party ( PDP ), Hon. Amina Divine Arong among others.
According to the author, she ventured into politics with the view to bridge the gap between the leadership and the led but find herself in the murky water of politics.
She said, “Politics has different layers that opened my eyes to a lot of things. This emboldened my calls for women’s participation in politics because it constitutes an emergency.
“I realised that a lot of women were facing stereotypes and the negative gender identity. So I thought it wise to address femininity and to demystify the stereotypes that limit women’s potentials.”
Ex-Governor Ihedioha shared his experiences and unwavering commitment to merit-based leadership decisions.
“I never allowed gender to influence my decisions, especially when promoting a woman to a leadership position,” Ihedioha affirmed.
Reflecting on his tenure, he highlighted the strides made in advancing democracy and ensuring fair elections during a time of significant political challenges.
Onyejeocha in her remarks challenged prevailing norms, shedding light on the lack of mutual support among women in politics.
“Most women do not support each other; if they did, no man would win an election because we outnumber them,” Onyejeocha emphasized.
She urged a collective shift in mindset to break free from the stereotypes that relegate women to subordinate roles in politics and society.
On her part, the book reviewer, Amina Salihu, noted that until men shift ground and make sacrifices by giving chance and space to women, fifty ( 50) percent of its population will not be able to meet their potentials, which is counter productive for the development of the country.
She said, “Nobody holds down fifty of their population which is women and you hope to make progress. The person held down, the person holding down, everybody will be performing at less of their optimum.”
In his address, the keynote speaker, the Director General of the National Institute for Legislative and Democratic Studies (NILDS), Abubakar Suleiman, noted that some of the challenge in achieving true gender parity in politics include patriarchy (cultural barriers), deep-rooted stereotypes and biases against women, financial constraints, among others.
Nigeria Police Force Apologizes to Olu of Warri Over Erroneous Invitation
The Nigeria Police Force (NPF) has reportedly tendered an unreserved apology to Delta State first-class monarch, Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, over an invitation to question him regarding alleged cases of attempted murder, assault and others.
An online publication had Monday reported that the Olu of Warri was invited by the Delta State Police Command following a petition allegedly written against the monarch.
Reacting to the invitation by the police, the respected traditional ruler, who spoke through his palace secretary, Kenneth Uyebi, said the invitation was the handwork of some miscreants and disgruntled elements in the Itsekiri nation.
According to the palace scribe, the Warri Area commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Abubakar, has tendered an unreserved apology to the Olu of Warri.
He said, "The very next day, the Area Commander called to apologize to the palace that the letter of invitation on his majesty, Ogiame Atuwatse III, the Olu of Warri was sent in error but I also advised him to cause a letter of retrieval to that effect. His Majesty is law-abiding and encourages all his subjects to be law-abiding.
“If there was an invitation as you said, His Majesty would have honoured it but the Area Command has withdrawn the one they sent in error and has not sent another letter as we speak.
"It is also on record that that very weekend, the Warri Area Commander, Assistant Commissioner of Police, ACP Abubakar, on behalf of the Nigeria Police Force, personally came to the palace after his phone calls, to personally tender an unreserved apology to His Majesty, the Olu of Warri, Ogiame Atuwatse III, that the letter was sent in error and therefore withdrawn.
“He informed the monarch that after investigations, it was discovered that the monarch had been dragged into what he knew nothing about. We are not saying the Olu of Warri is above the law, he was prepared to honour the invitation but as at the time the letter came, he was not in town."
Also reacting to the police invitation letter to the Olu of Warri and recent attacks on Okere community, the Chairman of Okere Community Management Committee/Planning Committee, Ugwa Olu, Fred Olomuro, in a statement, noted that an attack was carried out on the monarch during his visit to the area.
He identified the attackers as a group of recalcitrant people loyal to a former chief.
Also, two prominent Warri chiefs from Okere community, Koffi Kartey and Wilson Olley confirmed that during the attacks, the entourage of the Olu of Warri was attacked by youths loyal to one of the sons of the soil.
“As part of His Majesty’s schedule of visits across the communities in his domain, on the 2nd day of March, 2024, the Olu of Warri paid a visit to the community in a very well publicized program of events attended by teeming sons and daughters of the community as well as Itsekiris from all walks of life.
OAPs Host Music Artiste, Jessa Joan, Give Positive Reviews Of Her Works
.... Adopt Two Latest Singles As Party Jams For Airplay
On-air personalities in Abuja, the nation's capital have played host to one of the finest music artiste and a sensational singer, Jessa Joan where they reviewed most of her work over the years.
The Media Hangout also had the sensational single thrill the OAPs with her singles with electrifying performances.
Jessa Joan started her music career at the age of 11 from St Anthony Catholic Church in Warri but started singing in the studio at the studio when she was 16.
She has had several stage performances with top musicians within the country and beyond, including in the United Kingdom where she studied.
Also in Ghana, she has performed with big names such as Sarkodie, Ludacris, Mr Eazi, Burna Boy, Davido, Souja Boy, and Sean Tizzle.
In Nigeria, the humanitaria, lawyer and entrepreneur has also performed at AY Show, Ushbebe Show, Nite of a Thousand Laugh, Nigerian Bar Association event and more. She has also performed at Mc Bob's event, Bruno D comedian and so much more.
Some of her hit tracks include, Marry Me, Show me you love me, Tonight, Wake up, Africa Hello and more.
At the media hangout, the OAPs indicated preference to "Marry Me" and "Wake Up" probably because they are party vibes.
She also indicated to produce the Hello Africa video this year. According to her, it transcends outside Nigeria, it promotes Africa.
To wrap up the media Hangout , the organiser of Abuja Industry Conference and Entertainment, Mr. Gabriel Ubochi, presented Jessa Joan with certificate of recognition of her exceptional support to the growth of creative and entertainment industry.
Zeenah Ramsey crowned 2024 Queen of Miss Pearl International Beauty Pageant
Miss Zeenah Ramsey has been crowned as the 2024 Queen of Miss Pearl International Beauty Pageant in a glittering event, which held on Saturday, 2nd March 2024 at the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Abuja.
Miss Zeenah, a 24-year old graduate of Mass Communication from the prestigious University of Abuja (UNIABUJA) is also an entrepreneur. She bested 27 other competitors to win the title.
Following her emergence as a beauty queen, Miss Zeenah, while addressing newsmen at a press conference on Monday in Abuja, said: “I want to use this opportunity to thank and congratulated the other contestant because in reality we are all winners. It is truly an honor to stand here as the ambassador of beauty, culture, and fashion.
According to her, “Miss Pearl International Beauty Pageant is not just about showcasing physical beauty. It is about promoting African culture and textiles and molding young ladies into loyal, industrious, virtuous, and fashionable women with class and style. We believe that beauty goes beyond the external appearance and encompasses one’s character and values
“This pageant holds a special place in my heart because it is also known as the Internally Displayed Persons (IDP) Queen. This title represents our primary duty of caring for internally displaced persons who have been neglected. We acknowledge the importance of addressing this pressing issue and strive to make a difference in the lives of those affected by displacement.
Miss Zeenah, further, extended her heartfelt gratitude to all Nigerians who supported her throughout this journey.
“It is your unwavering support and encouragement that has brought me here today. I also want to express my sincere gratitude to my CEO, he has been a great Boss and a source of inspiration to me since I entered for this competition, I pledge my loyalty and hard work to the success of the pageant, its objectives and its name. I am committed to using my platform as Miss Pearl International to create awareness, bring about change, and improve the lives of the internally displaced individuals in our society”.
“Today, I also want to invite each and every one of you to a special event called “DINNER WITH QUEEN ZEENAH.” This dinner will hold on FRIDAY 19TH APRIL, 2024 BY 6PM. It will be an opportunity for me to share my plans for my one-year reign as Miss Pearl International, as well as raise funds for the care and support of internally displaced persons”.
“Together, we can make a difference. With your help and support, I believe we can bring hope and restore dignity to those who have been neglected. Let us stand together, hand in hand, and show the world the power of compassion and unity”.
“Thank you once again for being here today. Let us embark on this mission together and create a lasting impact on the lives of our fellow Nigerians”.
Politics › Re: Historic Trekking Project To Niger Delta Gains Endorsement From Governor Obaseki by dailybuzzng(op): 4:22am On Jun 13, 2024
