Nigeria Can Be The Best In The World Working Under Symphony Of Brotherhood - Aarebirin Hon. Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba

By Theresa Moses

With unity of purpose and working with sincerity of purpose coupled with purposeful leadership, Nigeria can become the best country in the whole world.

Reiterating this fact, the Aarebirin Hon. Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba, Vice Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government Area, Lagos state, has urged Nigerians to be united noting that being together, we can change the narratives to be one of the greatest country in the world.

Olabanji-Oba who is the current National Deputy Chairman, Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC), stated this during her closing remarks at the award Night and book launch organised by the Association in Abuja recently.

"I just want to wish everybody the best and together we will change the narratives of this great country to one of the best in the world," she explained.

The workaholic lady, known for her peaceful disposition and an avid peacemaker, appealled to all the stakeholders including women and youths to be committed to peace and believe in oneness of the country.

As a people, let's "ensure that we live together in peace and harmony so that we can continue to enjoy the good of the land and take advantage of the numerous potentials to galvanise a better future.

"It’s worthy to note that the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria’s vision is to achieve concrete and sustainable contribution to national and international efforts, to create a protective environment for citizens at the grassroots against all harm, and to protect their right to survival, development and wellbeing as established under the convention on human right."

By: Theresa Moses

Vice President, Federal Republic of Nigeria, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo (SAN), has tasked all Local Government Chairmen and their Vices in the country to use available resources judiciously to build roads, provide health services, and mobilize the citizenry for nation building.

Osinbajo was represented by Senator Babafemi Ojudu, Special Adviser to the President on Political Matters (Office of the Vice President) during an award Night and book launch organised by the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC) in Abuja recently.

According to him, “I am highly honoured to be among the people who have laid a stable goverance in the grassroots across the country. You are closer to the people, whenever they are hungry you know, whenever they are filled you know, when the roads are bad you know, and you know when there’s no water. It’s you who knows when the bridges are broken; when other amenities are not working no one knows but you as the Chairmen and Vice Chairmen of local governments.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-qIPa3E7aWg

"We know it has been a rough time for your group over the years because of paucity of resources but thanks to the President of the country, His Excellency, Mohammed Buhari. Now, you can access your money and your resources directly. You can plan your activities; you can draw up your budgets; and you can decide on what to do for the people.

"With the new regime, we are calling on both the chairmen and vice chairmen to use those resources judiciously to build roads, provide health services, and mobilize the citizens for all important task of nation building.

"Bear in mind that if you don’t perform, the people will knock at your doors, that’s why we see you as the most important in governance. We want you to use this opportunity in a way that will be beneficial to our people” he admonished.

On the area of security, Prof Osibanjo said: "We also know that you are the closest to the youths and you have the capacity to know all the bad boys in the community as well as the traditional rulers. Therefore, we are calling on you to cooperate with security agencies in ensuring that our communities are well secured. I encourage you to work in harmony with your Chairmen, because the beauty of democracy is when the Vice and the corporate leaders unite and complement one another. As men and women of peace, knowledge, we acknowledge the fact that it’s not easy to be a politician at all levels as the people know you, your houses, cars, where you were before and who you are now. We admonish you, if the people come to see you for school fees for their children, don’t feel bad; you are doing a much more important job.

"Let’s use our resources for the glory of the people and the glory of God. Let this association draw-up plans for our offices. It’s that plan that would improve the lives of our people.

"People are suffering and they are losing faith in democracy, we must wake up to our responsibilities to our people. They want a good life, water, good roads, amenities, good schools as well, these are not too much and I believe it’s what we can do and provide. That’s why we have always been on your side as the third tier of government".

Dr. Ebi Awosika, Senior Technical Assistant on Community Engagements, Office of the Vice President, Mrs. Nkechi Chukwueke Special Assistant to the President on Community Engagements, Mrs. Halima Bawa, Special Assistant on Community Engagements, Mrs. Nonye Ojekwe, Special Assistant on Community Engagements were among those present at the award Night and book launch organised by the Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC) in Abuja recently.

By Theresa Moses

The National Deputy Chairman, Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria (ALGOVC), Aarebirin Hon. Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba, has called on all Nigerians to take charge of their families especially the children as the future is now.

Olabanji-Oba, who is the current Vice Chairman, Ikorodu Local Government Area, Lagos state, stated this during the Association's 4th Annual National Conference in Abuja recently.

"The job of the government is to ensure things are put in the right perspective. It also behoves on all of us to look out for one another. In order words, we all must take charge.

"There are so many things that are involved right from the homestead -family, parenting and of course the children. Some of them are out of school. We must think about the future of this great country," she emphasized.

Aarebirin Hon. Princess Folashade, further explained that "if you don’t take care of today, there’s no magic that’s going to happen tomorrow. So, today matters a lot to us and we must do everything possible to make sure that we prioritize our resources.

"It’s revolving. The economy after going through the pandemic, is still wobblying. The only alternative is for us to be more aggressive in catching up. We've lost so much ground last year as a result of Covid-19, which took us by surprise. Now that we are here, we must be more accountable, more responsive and more responsible in our communities."

On the devolution of power as the only way out, the National Deputy Chairman, ALGOVC said: "As Vice Chairmen, it’s a collective effort at all levels, and we are definitely leveraging on that as matters are unfolding," she reiterated.

By Theresa Moses

The National Chairman, Association of Local Government Vice Chairmen of Nigeria(ALGOVC), Hon. Lawrence Onuchukwu says their 4th Annual National Conference/Award and Book Launch will brainstorm and discuss issues of insecurity that have to do with local government administration in various local governments in Nigeria and proffer a solution.

Hon. Onuchukwu stated this on Wednesday during a press briefing at Chelsea Hotel, Abuja ahead of the Association's conference.

"As you are all aware, one of the theme of the conference is: Improving grass-root leadership as a panacea for insecurity, peace and national development in Nigeria. It's the local government at the grass-roots that's most hit. We will give awards to some Nigerians who have impacted the development of local government such as the government of Sokoto state for it's tremendously commitment and support at the grass-root" he said.

When asked about shutting down of schools as a result of insecurity. He said: "like I've said, that's why every schools is in every local government, that's why we have gathered in Abuja to discuss this issue critically and tell ourselves about the insecurity we are going through in our domain. Because they say every politics is local and every executive is local. For us, the insecurity is worst hit by the local government. These are the things we are going to discuss tomorrow at the conference and we will have a communique and proffer a solution which we would forward to appropriate bodies to look into".

Aarebirin Hon. Princess Folashade Olabanji-Oba, the National Deputy Chairman of the Association, who also doubles as the current Vice Chairman, Ikorodu local government said "the interest of the national conference/award was to promote national prosperity and greatness of our beloved country Nigeria, add value to our various communities and to work closely with the state and federal government to attain it’s sustainable goals for the nation, ”.

Royal fathers of the day; Oba Enitan Ogunwusi, Ooni of Ife and Alhaji Aminu Ado-Bayero, Emir of Kano are among and some other prominent personalities across the nation that will grace the event.

....Eulogises late BOT Chairman's selfless service

By Theresa Moses

Few days after the tragic loss of Board of Trustees (BOT) Chairman, Prince Ifeanyi Dike, whose demise came as a huge shock to the entertainment industry, Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) National President, Emeka Ejezie Rollas has led a team of actors on a condolence visits to the deceased’s home in Ogba area of Lagos, State.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tcvWv07baVI

The veteran actors during the condolences visit to the grieving family
expressed shock at the tragic death of their beloved colleague, brother, and friend, whose absence they said would be felt throughout the entertainment industry.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Y9p2ZDiifJY

While consoling with the widow and family of the deceased, Emeka Rollas who is still in shock over Ifeanyi's death said: "We are here as a guild and we want to assure you that we have plans to be fully involved in the burial of Ifeanyi Dike and particularly support you and your children".


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3c1qSMEEUJo

He urged the widow to take heart as God is in control and in charge of everything.

Okey Bakassi went the memory lane to tell the story of how Ifeanyi made AGN what it is today through his selfless service and love for all.

According to him, "He was made BOT chairman unopposed without election because of how kind hearted he was, he brings solution. His death is a huge loss, we can hardly find people with the kind of his heart in the industry, selfless service. Your husband, father was a great and good man. So please take confidence in that knowing that he contributed immensely to what AGN is today and no one in the industry has any negative thing to say about him".

Sonny Mcdon who was full of praise for the life of Ify Boy as he fondly called the late veteran stated : "I can't imagine that am here today inside Ifeanyi's house for the reason that brought us here. Like the Bible says, in all things we should give thanks as nothing happens that God does not know. That's why wherever he is now, God has prepared a place for him. We are only mourning his absence because we are human. The God that sustained him all these years that we thought that he would have gone yet brought him this far, that God will sustain you and the children. God will not disappoint you, He will strengthen you as He's the husband of the widow. As such everything will fall in place for you. Your grieve is for a while as your children will bring you joy, tomorrow shall be a new horizon to you and your family. God will raise you up like daughters of Zion and you will exceed the limitations that men will never think that you will exceed".

Expressing his love and concern to the family, Emma Ogugua encouraged the family, children not to lose hope, adding that God would ease the burden occasioned by the irreparable loss.

Those who visited the residence of the late actor were; National President of the Actors’ Guild of Nigeria (AGN) Ejezie Emeka Rollas, Emma Ogugua - BOT, Okey Bakasi - BOT, Sonny Mcdon W - BOT, Abubakar Yakubu, National Secretary,
Lagos State AGN Chairman, Emeka Rising Ibeh, SSA to the President On Intl. Travels and Special Duties, Ifeoma Okeke,
Grace Ama, Chuks Egbu, Blessing Anthony Ani and Oby Express.

The veteran actor's death, which occurred on the 27th of August, 2021, stunned the entertainment industry.


https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3Ujp_ubcC6Q

By Kunle Akogun

The recent reappointments of Professors Is’haq Oloyede and Abubakar Rasheed as Registrar/Chief Executive of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) and Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), respectively, did not come as a surprise to many keen watchers of the two crucial parastatals in the nation’s education sector in the last five years. If anything, the reappointments of the duo have been seen by many people as well-deserved reward for hard work, dexterity and superlative efficiency in the management of human, material and fiscal resources, attributes that have substantially improved the fortunes and ratings of their two organizations since they were first appointed in 2016.

While the duo has severally contributed to the elevation of the quality of education in the country, it is heartwarming that their efforts have been frequently recognised and serially rewarded. Only recently, Prof. Rasheed, who was a former Vice-Chancellor of Bayero University, Kano, was ranked as the best Executive Secretary in the history of NUC by a global public service performance rating agency, Also, Prof. Oloyede, a former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, is nationally renowned to be the most dynamic chief executive of JAMB since its inception.

For Prof. Oloyede in particular, there is no doubt that since his appointment as the JAMB Registrar five years ago, he has remained one of the most visible poster boys of President Muhammadu Buhari’s war against corruption. The reason is simple: The Professor of Islamic Jurisprudence has so sanitised the operations of the tertiary institutions’ admission body in five years that it seems that the 44-years old Board had never been in any tangible operational existence before 2016!

For this singular reason, his reappointment for another term of five years, announced on Friday, 20th August, did not really come as a surprise to many watchers of the great revolution going on in JAMB since August 1, 2016. Indeed, when his first tenure ended on July 31st, 2021, not a few discerning Nigerians openly canvassed his reappointment into the same office, if only to allow him consolidate on the unprecedented socio-economic revolution he initiated and sustained not only in JAMB but in any Nigerian public institution. For, which sane coach changes a winning team?

It is a thing of personal joy for those of us who know this erudite scholar intimately that Prof. Oloyede did not disappoint his teeming admirers since his appointment. Rather, he shamed the vociferous opposition to his well-merited appointment. Not only did he institute an enhanced welfare scheme for JAMB staff that greatly boosted their morale, Prof. Oloyede’s messianic first tenure substantially restored the sanctity of the Board’s main mandate: the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME). And, as evident in all the five admission exercises he superintended, JAMB’s technology considerably improved, with high level of transparency and advanced networking. The scrapping of them traditional scratch card system for checking results is also another positive rebellion by this audacious JAMB helmsman. And the drastic reduction in the application fees is a serious relief to sundry admission seekers and their parents and guardians.

But by far the most remarkable feat by any non-revenue yielding MDA in the country is the consistent remittance by Prof. Oloyede’s JAMB of whopping sums of money in billions of naira to the Federal Government coffers in each of the last five years. This is indeed praise-worthy, especially in a country where even some MDAs that were specifically and originally established to collect revenue for the government often turn round to ask the same government for extra-budgetary bail-outs to supplement their overheads!

By this feat, Prof. Oloyede merely lived up to his well-known credentials of administrative acumen, financial discipline and legendary transparency in public service. An erudite Professor of Islamic Jurisprudence and the first ever Unilorin graduate to make a first class degree in the institution, Oloyede became a household name during his tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, having largely succeeded in turning the second generation University into a world class institution. This, he achieved by dint of hard work, resilience, consistency, tenacity of purpose and unparalleled team spirit.

Indeed, Prof. Oloyede’s trajectory has been a study in service excellence, administrative acumen, religious commitment to the achievement of set goals, and unapologetic insistence on fairness for all. This much has been duly acknowledged by dispassionate watchers of his profile since he emerged the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin in 2007, especially with his sterling track records of achievements.

His reappointment is, therefore, a very commendable masterstroke by the President, as the good works he did in his first term need to be consolidated upon in order to avoid the incidence of the well-known Nigerian syndrome of policy summersault and programme discontinuity that often characterize the advent of any new administration in this clime.

*Kunle Akogun is the Director of Corporate Affairs, University of Ilorin, Nigeria*

...as Nollywood stars Chiwetalu Agu, Chinyere Wilfred, Destiny Etiko, Steve Eboh, Victor Osuagwu storm Anambra

By Theresa Moses

Labour Party Guber Aspirant in Anambra, Obiorah Agbasimalo, has said he would have created 5,000 jobs in the state with Nollywood Film Village.

Agbasimalo stated this on Saturday, 28th August, 2021 at the Onitsha Mega Rally which held at All Saints Cathedral field Onitsha, Anambra state.

Some Nollywood actors that turned up to support Obiora Agbasimelo were Chiwetalu Agu, Chinyere Wilfred, Destiny Etiko, Steve Eboh, Victor Osuagwu, Harry Bee amongst others.

The multi-millionaire technocrat cum philanthropist, Obiora Agbasimalo, President, Oga Ndi Oga Solidarity Movement vowed that he would address the plight of the downtrodden in the society.

It was learnt that Oga Ndi Oga through his foundation has unveiled multi-million naira revolving interest free loan for traders, artisans, small and medium scale business owners.

Aside from Empowering Women and Youths in Nigeria,
Obiora Agbasimelo has built Community roads, awarded educational and vocational skills scholarships.

In addition, he takes care of medical bills for so many Nigerians with critical healthy issues, as well as initiating several poverty alleviation programmes to address the plight of widows and families.

By Kunle Akogun

There is no doubt that since his appointment as the Registrar of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) five years ago, Prof. Is’haq Oloyede has remained one of the most visible poster boys of President Muhammadu Buhari’s war against corruption. The reason is simple: The Professor of Islamic Jurisprudence and former Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin has so sanitised the operations of the tertiary institutions’ admission body in five years that it seems that the 44-years old Board had never been in any tangible operational existence before 2016!

For this singular reason, his reappointment for another term of five years, announced on Friday, 20th August, did not really come as a surprise to many watchers of the great revolution going on in JAMB since August 1, 2016. Indeed, when his first tenure ended on July 31st, 2021, not a few discerning Nigerians openly canvassed his reappointment into the same office, if only to allow him consolidate on the unprecedented socio-economic revolution he initiated and sustained not only in JAMB but in any Nigerian public institution. For, which sane captain changes a winning team?

In one of such altruistic advocacies, a former Executive Secretary of the National Universities Commission (NUC), Prof. Peter Okebukola, said that Prof. Oloyede’s first term in office has “been marked by unprecedented success”, having elevated the quality of university education in Nigeria by ensuring improved quality of candidates for admission into the university system. Prof. Okebukola added that with 82 innovations in JAMB, Prof. Oloyede should be allowed to consolidate the gains of the last five years and see to the completion of his ongoing programmes and projects.

It is a thing of personal joy for those of us who know this erudite scholar intimately that Prof. Oloyede did not disappoint his teeming admirers since his appointment. Rather, he shamed the vociferous opposition to his well-merited appointment. Not only did he institute an enhanced welfare scheme for JAMB staff that greatly boosted their morale, Prof. Oloyede’s messianic tenure substantially restored the sanctity of the Board’s main mandate: the Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME). And, as evident in all the five admission exercises he superintended, JAMB’s technology considerably improved, with high level of transparency and advanced networking. The scrapping of the traditional scratch card system for checking results is also another positive rebellion by this audacious JAMB helmsman. And the drastic reduction in the application fees is a serious relief to sundry admission seekers and their parents and guardians.

But by far the most remarkable feat by any non-revenue yielding MDA in the country is the consistent remittance by Prof. Oloyede’s JAMB of whopping sums of money in billions of naira to the Federal Government coffers in each of the last five years. This is indeed praise-worthy, especially in a country where even some MDAs that were specifically and originally established to collect revenue for the government often turn round to ask the same government for extra-budgetary bail-outs to supplement their overheads!

By this feat, Prof. Oloyede merely lived up to his well-known credentials of administrative acumen, financial discipline and legendary transparency in public service. An erudite Professor of Islamic Jurisprudence and the first ever Unilorin graduate to make a first class degree in the institution, Oloyede became a household name during his tenure as the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin, having largely succeeded in turning the second generation University into a world class institution. This, he achieved by dint of hard work, resilience, consistency, tenacity of purpose and unparalleled team spirit.

Indeed, Prof. Oloyede’s trajectory has been a study in service excellence, administrative acumen, religious commitment to the achievement of set goals, and unapologetic insistence on fairness for all. This much has been duly acknowledged by dispassionate watchers of his profile since he emerged the Vice-Chancellor of the University of Ilorin in 2007, especially with his sterling track records of achievements.

It’s no surprise, therefore, that many well-meaning Nigerians continue to harp on the need for President Muhammadu Buhari to renew the appointment of this modern Midas to consolidate the good job he has been doing in JAMB in the past five years. After all, he is statutorily entitled to two terms of five years each, subject to the wish of the President. At a point, however, there were reports that Prof. Oloyede appeared not to be too keen on doing a second term, as he was said to have insisted that he had made his mark and would like to yield the ground for other persons to be given the opportunity to serve the nation at the JAMB level. The veracity of this report could be gleaned from the swiftness with which he handed over the Registrar’s baton, without any prompting whatsoever from any quarters, to the available most senior Director at the nick of the expiration of his FIRST term! The common sit-tight scheming among Nigerian public officials does not seem to hold any attraction for him!

His reappointment is, therefore, a very commendable masterstroke by the President. For, Nigeria still needs the services of this highly cerebral and effective public officer for another five years at JAMB to personally nurse the several ongoing innovations, which he initiated in the organisation to irrevocable and unabortable fruition. For instance, such initiatives as the Central Admissions Processing System (CAPS) for automation of admission process; the institution of Equal Opportunity Group for the conduct of the Universal Tertiary Matriculation Examination (UTME) for Blind Candidates; the expansion of the capacities of CBT centres for standardization purposes; the introduction of E-Ticketing (for Complaints; the introduction of the Integrated Brochure and Syllabus System (IBASS) for prompt delivery of admissions requirements; the use of Biometric Authentication to confirm validity of registration, the introduction of E-slip printing; the introduction of management dashboard to monitor registration and admission exercise real time; the use of CCTV cameras in all CBT centres to monitor the examination and registration process real time; and exemplary funds management; as well as prudent and judicious use of JAMB’s financial resources, all need to be consolidated upon in order to avoid the incidence of the well-known Nigerian syndrome of policy summersault and programme discontinuity that often characterize the advent of any new administration in this clime.

*Kunle Akogun is the Director of Corporate Affairs, University of Ilorin, Nigeria*

By Theresa Moses

I woke up to a call on a Tuesday morning that schools, markets, businesses are shut down in observance of an age-long cultural festival, involving rituals. I became curious as to why a traditional event will cripple community activities and livelihood of people in this 21st century.

Against the forgoing backdrop, I began a journey to Orudu-Olokan village in Oshere, Matogun, Ifo Local Government Area of Ogun State for a first-hand information on why pupils can’t go to school and business not allowed to open for the sake of a ritual.

The road is an eyesore, indeed, Ogun State is known for its dilapidated, muddy and flooded roads. This is made worse by poor and inadequate drainage, which further worsens the dilemma of residents and motorists in Matogun and Lambe areas particularly during the rainy season, when the roads get submerged in flood-water, compelling residents to remove their foot-wears as they wade through the murky waters on the flooded roads. The health risk can only be imagined.

I got to Matogun and took a bike to Oshere. The smart motorbike operator dropped me way off my destination, perhaps for his own safety, and I had to walk the distance till I got to a local food canteen (Buka), where I engaged the woman in a chat about my visit. She told me “it’s not here but in Orudu.”

As she said I can’t trek to the place, she called the bike operator back (obviously, she knows him) and told him that he should come back and pick me. I asked her why I can’t go to the community; she said visitors, strangers and women are not allowed to enter the community till after 2:00 pm when they would have finished the ritual.

About hour later, the bike man returned and said I should have told him where I was headed. He asked the intention of my visit; I told him and he put a call through to someone who said we shouldn’t go there till after an hour. He left and left to continue his daily hustle, but promised to come take me there. So I waited and continued my chat with the food vendor to know more about the festival and its importance.

She said the Yoruba don’t joke with their culture and traditional practices I irrespective of religious affiliations: whether Christians, Muslims or pagans. She further said that they adhere to the warnings of the elders with regards to the practice of the tradition, and warned me not to engage on such a risky project as it’s better for men. I appreciated her hospitality and how she opened my eyes more to the way of life of the Orudu-Oshere community.

The bike man came as promised, and said we should go as he has spoken to the secretary to the Baale of the community. Navigating his way amid potholes and mud-littered decrepit road on the way to Oshere areas through Orodu, I got so scared of falling off the bike. As we passed through the deplorable, un-tarred roads, I observed that potholes caused by excavating of the roads had become the residue to rain drops, making the roads an eyesore and impassable for motorists.

I finally got to my destination, the inscription - Baale of Orodu Oyekan land, High Chief Alli Moruf Mofolorunsho Akanbi Abul-Wahad Oyekan – was boldly written on the wall of the house. The bike man went to speak to someone while I waited; after about 15 minutes, the man he was speaking with walked up to where I was sitting and introduced himself as Mr. Dapo. He asked of my identification card which I showed him and he said the Baale is so tired (I saw him sitting and sleeping on a chair under a canopy). He took me to the canopy where the Baale and his chiefs were seated, after the completion of the traditional rites.

Chief Odutan Ogunyemi spoke, since the Baale was sleeping and couldn’t attend to me. I asked the essence of the traditional rites and he said:
“The ritual brings many good things to the community. This community was predominantly farmers, if they plant crops if rain doesn’t fall the crops will be bad; but whenever the ritual is performed annually rain falls, which symbolises that the gods has answered prayer which you experience today. The rain brings forth good things, fruitfulness, productivity, etc.”

On why businesses, including schools, were shut down, Ogunyemi said: “We have a stream where people are fetching water; there is a portion of it that we practice our culture. We informed (the) Community Development Association (CDA) chairman that people should not come to the stream for some hours today, till we are done with the prayer. So when we are done people can continue their normal activities.”

After this, he refused to talk further as they were all tired from the preparation of the event and, besides, it’s not a one-day event; it’s a week-long ceremony. The Ishese festival and rest of the traditional rites would be done at the palace, which won’t affect businesses or movement of people or activities. I appreciated them for accepting to answer my questions and explaining the essence of the festival.

My concern now is: If you so much cherish your tradition/culture, why allow foreigners to come into your community, buy lands, build houses, businesses like stores, schools and deprive them of operation at their own expense on days you choose to observe your traditional rites?

I respect tradition a lot but using it an excuse to promote traditional fetish practices and disrupt economic and social activities in urban areas without government intervention is worrisome.

….Host “Nollywood Nite of Tributes” on Saturday

By Theresa Moses

Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), an umbrella union that regulates and represents the affairs of film actors in Nigeria and abroad bids farewell to one of its own Veteran Actress, Chief Rachel Etabuno Oniga as they celebrates her life and the measure of its wealth, her unquantifiable and tireless contributions to the guild, professionalism, legacy and every single life she had touched while on earth.

Emeka Rollas Ejezie, National President, AGN, in a 55 seconds viral video said: “As so we bid farewell to one of our own, we celebrate Rachel Etabuno Oniga. We celebrate your life and the measure of its wealth, your unquantifiable and tireless contributions to our guild. Your professionalism, legacy and every single life you have touched while you were here on this earth. Thank you for your friendship and all the memories we hold dear. It’s indeed a privilege to know you, until we meet to part no more. AGN will never forget you. Rest in Peace Mama Rachel”.

AGN is raising funds to give Veteran Actress, Chief Rachel Etabuno Oniga a befitting burial and support her immediate family. As a result, the national body has set up a Committee to raise funds, championed by the Vice President, Southwest, Chief Femi Branch, who doubles as an active member of Lagos state Chapter.

It was revealed that donation should be paid to *Account Number: 0231171925; Account Name: SLEEK INITIATIVE with GT BANK.*

A subtle statement by the Chairman appeals to all actors to contribute at least #1,000 (One thousand naira) which is a constitutional obligation to all members to “support our veteran’s burial.

According to Femi Branch, the Actors are also organising a “Nite of Tribute” for the late iconic actress, calls on all members to attend the Nollywood Nite of Tributes for Chief Rachel Etabuno Oniga on Saturday, 21st August, 2021 at Blue Roof Top, LTV Premises, Agidingbi Road, Coca-Cola Bus stop, Ikeja, Lagos, by 3:00 pm with the Dress Code: All White. With support from Lagos State Ministry of Information, Lagos State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, all Nollywood Guilds and Associations and the Committee of Friends are fully involved.

...promises to make Anambra state a hub for film makers

By: Theresa Moses

It was like a carnival as some Nollywood actors converged on Anambra State to honour Obiora Agbasimelo a.k.a Oga Ndi Oga for his immense support to the film industry as he flagged-off his campaign to become the first citizen of the state .

The multi-millionaire technocrat cum philanthropist, Obiora Agbasimalo and President, Oga Ndi Oga Solidarity Movement is vying for the governorship of Anambra State under the auspices of Labour Party as he flagged off his campaign at Akwa on Saturday, 14th August, 2021.

Among those present at the
grand breaking flag-off campaign of Labour Party were Destiny Etiko, Chiwetalu Agu, Chinyere Wilfred, Nkechi Nweje, Steve Eboh, Chidi Ihezie Okafor, Chinedu Ikedieze, Mc Smith Ochendo, Uju Okoli amongst others.

Promising to make Anambra state a hub for film makers added that he would address the plight of the downtrodden in the society.

It was learnt that Oga Ndi Oga through his foundation has unveiled multi-million naira revolving interest free loan for traders, artisans, small and medium scale business owners.

Aside from Empowering Women and Youths in Nigeria,
Obiora Agbasimelo has also helped build Community roads, awarded educational and vocational skills scholarships.

In addition, he takes care of medical bills for so many Nigerians with critical health issues, as well as initiating several poverty alleviation programmes to address the plight of widows and families.

...to organise "Nite of Tribute," befitting burial

By Theresa Moses

Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN), an umbrella union that regulates and represents the affairs of film actors in Nigeria and abroad is raising funds to give Veteran Actress, Chief Rachel Etabuno Oniga a befitting burial and support her immediate family.

As a result, the national body has set up a Committee to raise funds, championed by the Vice President, Southwest, Chief Femi Branch, who doubles as an active member of Lagos state Chapter.

It was revealed that donation should be paid to *Account Number: 0231171925; Account Name: SLEEK INITIATIVE with GT BANK.*

A subtle statement by the Chairman appeals to all actors to contribute at least #1,000 (One thousand naira) which is a constitutional obligation to all members to "support our veteran's burial.

"Those who can contribute more please, don't hesitate. God always blesses a cheerful giver. Let us show love to our departed legend by paying up our levy. It's Mama Rachael Oniga today; no one knows the hour it will happen to anyone else. Let us be prepared by doing the right thing and making up with our God at all times," he reiterated.

The Actors who are also organising a "Nite of Tribute" for the late iconic actress, according Femi Branch, calls on all members to attend the Nollywood Nite of Tributes for Chief Rachel Etabuno Oniga on Saturday, 21st August, 2021 at Blue Roof Top, LTV Premises, Agidingbi Road, Coca-Cola Bus stop, Ikeja, Lagos, by 3:00 pm with the Dress Code: "All White.

"With support from Lagos State Ministry of Information, Lagos State Ministry of Culture and Tourism, all Nollywood Guilds and Associations and Committee of Friends are fully involved.

Branch reminded members to always stay safe at all times by maintaining maximum health consciousness and observing the Covid-19 guidelines to the latter. The battle is far from being over as the world is experiencing the third and most deadly wave in the history of the pandemic.

“It takes a different Value System, if you want to change the world”—Jacque Fresco

By TORDUE SALEM

There are two regressive factors in the Tiv Culture: Yuhwe and Pati U tsaam Ior. The first is addressed in Suemo Chia’s “Adan Wade Kohol Ga”, the latter, is treated in Mvendaga Jibo’s “Tiv Politics Since 1959”.

There is a third factor, just as malignant as the two above: The value construct “Mlu Wou, Akumau”(Be contented with your condition)”.

Let us start from the bottom. The question is: considering the slow industrial, economic and political progress of Tivland, since the 19th Century, is it right for “Mlu wase kuman see?”. No, we cannot be contented with our misery at all levels.

Tivland is at the bottom, based on per capita income in Nigeria, administration and strategic placements at all levels.

To strongly demonstrate the regressive politics and Value System of the Tiv man, Late Tor Tiv Ochivirigh Akawe Torkula, years ago, expressed his opposition to the clamour for creation of more states in the federation, saying the proposal for new states in the 1999 Constitution is unnecessary.

The traditional ruler in his new book entitled: “The Culture of Partisan Politics in Nigeria: An Historic Perspective”, took a swipe at the pressure groups seeking new states to be carved from the existing ones, describing their motives as self-serving and superfluous.
Said he: “The problems at the state levels are almost the same as at the federal. States in this country are often created for political aggrandisement or considerations. The economic viability of such states does not seem to constitute an important factor in state creation.

“Nigerians have consciously or otherwise welcomed the state creation and they continue to clamour for more, not necessarily because they want development, but rather, as an avenue for creating jobs for the indigenes of those states.

“Politicians who for one reason or the other cannot make it at the national level find refuge at this level. They become political leaders or heroes of such enclaves. It is believed that apart from the centre, states constitute also, political structures upon which both political and economic objectives are pursued,” he wrote.

The late traditional leader, who was the 4th Tor Tiv, since the Tiv Traditional Council was founded in 1946, also urged the Federal Government under President Umaru Yar’Adua to scrap the “legislative contraption” at the local tier of government, observing that its existence was a waste.

“The introduction of Presidential system at the local government level is too ambitious because it has not taken into account the level of political, economic and social background for the grassroots”, he said.

Late Tiv political leader, Joseph Tarkar, had earlier kicked against creation of more local governments and an additional state from Benue, when Wantaregh Paul Unongo, in his 1958 pamphlet entitled: “Where Do We go From Here”, dared to call for the creation of additional states from the vast land, called Benue.

This sorry view of politics, drawn from the Value System of the Tiv man, is one of the reasons for the backwardness of the land in particular and Benue State in general.

The landmass of Benue, is 34,059km, yet it has only 23 local governments and 276 council wards, while Akwa Ibom State, with a very small landmass of 7,081, has 369 Council wards and 31 local governments.

Kano State with a landmass of 20,131km, has 44 local governments, yet these more privileged states are on the list of several states of the federation, consistently agitating for the creation of more states.

Their politically wise agitations may soon pay off, as the Senate has approved the creation of these states: Itai State (from Akwa Ibom State); State status for the FCT; Katagum State from Bauchi State; Okura State from Kogi East; Adada State from Enugu State; Gurara State from Kaduna South; and Ijebu State from Ogun State.

Others include Ibadan State from Oyo State; Tiga State from Kano State; Ghari State from Kano State; Amana State from Adamawa; Gongola State from Adamawa; Mambilla State from Taraba State; Savannah State from Borno State; and Okun state from Kogi State.

Others on the list are Etiti State from the South East Zone; Orashi State from Imo and Anambra states; Njaba from the present Imo State or the excision of Aba State from Abia State; Anioma State from Delta State; Torogbene and Oil River States, from Bayelsa, Delta and Rivers states; and Bayajida State from parts of Katsina, Jigawa and Zamfara states.

These other parts of the country, agitating for more states, cannot be foolish. To the contrary, more divisions, if viable, would make for better and more effective administration and progress. No wonder Benue today, rates as one of the most backward states in the country.

The asinine politics of contentment with being in a dungeon and backward, has ensured that that a 45-year old state, is still crawling. Positive greed for advancement, is the reason why as beautiful and developed as the United States is, the Biden Administration is still pushing for an infrastructure budget of a whopping $3.5trillion.

Ambition, is the fuel that drives up economies and a people. The fatalist view of “Mlu wou Akumau la”, is not only sinister, but deeply foolish and smacks of a complete lack of conscience.

A lack of conscience, in the sense that, no people as backward as the Tiv, should even toy with the thought of ‘contentment’. In backward societies, economic or political contentment is evil in itself, because it doesn’t only hold that particular vessel of such thought down, it discourages a community that looks up to the purveyor of such senseless thought, from ambition.

CONCLUSION

Now, let us return to the twin subjects of jealousy and smear campaigns, as political tools in Tiv politics. When a Tiv voter or leader can’t question your positive gifts, they go for either the circumstances of your birth or dismiss you, as an acolyte of a perceived enemy.

In 1979, members of the National Party of Nigeria(NPN), were tagged as “slaves of North”, without proof! The same message recurred in 1982 before the primaries, even though the Late Governor Aper Aku’s competence, was without doubt.

In 1992, the same unproven charge, was brought against Prof. Ignatius Ayua, when he contested on the platform of National Republican Convention(NRC). Again, there was no proof that Ayua was either a closet moslem as falsely claimed, nor was there any proof of his party, nursing any religious agenda. To the contrary, the Social Democratic Party(SDP), was even more of a party of choice for the North, than the NRC was.

Again, in 2019, a better candidate Hon. Emmanuel Jime went down for the same reasons.

Prof. Jibo describes that sort of politicking, as the politics of “psychic gratification”. A politics that is bereft of economic thinking. A politics just for the vulgar pleasure of it and with the ultimate aim of mutual self-destruction. A politics driven by unmistakable jealousy and a tendency for self-harm. Nothing more.

As we march to 2023, Tivland in particular and Benue in general, must decide whether we want to move forward with a new Value System, or remain in the pit for another decade of wailing and gnashing of teeth.

*Tordue Salem, is an underprivileged Nigerian of Benue State origin.

The General Supervisor of ThankGod Awaited Liberation Ministry, Ikeja, Lagos, Prophet Francis Otukwu, has warned the Federal Government to be sincere in its approach to the battle against insecurity, amid mass hunger and suffering, before it culminates in citizen uprising that would make the #EndSARS protest a child’s play.

Prophet Otukwu, who gave the warning last Sunday during the 15th Anniversary of the ministry and commemoration of the Founder, Son of Man ThankGod Chukwuma’s birthday, cautioned that time is running out for the political leadership as the degree of suffering and starvation, worsened by astronomical rise in cost of living, is becoming too unbearable for the masses, adding, “a hungry man is an angry man.”

He called on the President to eschew sentiment and listen to the voices of reason from elder statesmen and informed opinion to make room for a meaningful dialogue on ways to promote equity and inclusiveness so as to fast-track economic recovery and halt the current abuse of human rights, leading to unnecessary loss of innocent lives.

This, he noted, is the only way to check the ongoing political agitations and move the country forward: “The President should approach issues dispassionately as a father figure who was elected by the generality of Nigerians, to discharge his duties faithfully, in accordance with the Nigerian Constitution. It is within his power to reconcile all the ethnic groups in the country without placing the interest of one group above others, with a view to strengthening the concept of unity in diversity, in a nation where the life of every Nigerian counts.”

Expatiating on the theme of the event, “I am the Vine, you can do nothing without me” (John 15:5), Prophet Otukwu berated professed Christians among the political class who “unconscionably collaborate with their colleagues in playing politics with the life and wellbeing of their respective electorates for their selfish interest.”

Speaking further on the state of the nation, the cleric stressed that the unprecedented rise in cost of living, which leads to starvation and increasing malnutrition, cannot be separated from the activities of armed herdsmen destroying farms and threatening the life of farmers while security agents look the other way in the South and Middle Belt even as bandits terrorise farming communities in the North-west and parts of North-central.

“That is why I said earlier that the Federal Government has to be sincere and the army and police unbiased in their service to the nation, including the prosecution of the Boko Haram war.”

PHOTO CAPTIONS: PIX 1: Prophet Francis Otukwu (in white), Ms Rita Otukwu of the Founder: From right Ms Amaka Chukwuma, Ebube Chukwuma and Chisom Chukwuma, first right, cutting the anniversary cake.

PIC 2: Prophet Francis Otukwu (in white), Ms Rita Otukwu second left with children cutting the anniversary cake.

PIX 3: Prophet Francis Otukwu (in white), Ms Rita Otukwu second left with some members of the church cutting the anniversary cake.

By TORDUE SALEM

The Kuraunism Movement to occupy Benue State Government House in 2023, is not about blackmail and arguments across party lines.

Dr. Jeffrey Kuraun, an internationally recognized scholar, who has travelled the world, and studied management in several continents, believes that a state is a microcosm of the country and the world at large.

He believes that for any state to develop considerably, investors must be sought locally, nationally and internationally, that’s why our campaign has taken the pains to consult all the 14 ethnic groups in Benue State and to seek links with others outside Benue and even abroad.

He believes that no state can exist and develop without the harmony of all tribes, political parties, religious persuasions and ideologies.

Dr. Kuraun, also believes that every tribe in Benue, has relatives in neighbouring states. These could also be potential investors in our agriculture, marine and mineral sectors in the future, that’s why his NOVEL, but EXCELLENT strategy, is to involve all states of the federation. This strategy, will make it easier for other states and ethnic groups to invest in Benue in the future, and cure the current acute draught of investments, that has rendered millions of youths jobless.

Most states of the federation with the biggest Internally-Generated Revenue, IGR, are COSMOPOLITAN. Top-notch economic thinkers, have long identified the embrace of different interest groups and people who may not be indigenous in our economic jurisdiction, as key to the expansion of our economies and the fastest way to bridge a yawning employment gap.

He has also identified unity of all stakeholders in Benue, as solution to the insecurity that is threatening food security and has cost hundreds of thousands of lives, since 2012.

About 3 or more tribes in Benue, have related tribes in Cross River and Ebonyi States. These tribes are the Tiv, Igede and Idoma.

Taraba in the Northeast, also has Tiv, Oring and Jukun(tribes that are also in Benue). The Igbo of the Southeast, are also indigenous to three local governments in Benue, namely Obi, Oju and Ado local governments. These local governments were part of the Old Eastern Region, until 1938.

The Tiv and Idoma, with related tribes, dominate the Nasarawa Local governments of Obi, Awe, Doma and Keana. The Igala of Kogi, are a related tribe to the Idoma and the Aguleri and Umuleri communities of Anambra North.

The Aguleri and Umuleri tribes, are also related closely to the Igala of Kogi and the Idoma of Okpokwu local government of Southern Benue.

The Indigenous Hausa of Benue In Makurdi and Katsina Ala, have links to several states in the North, and so forth. The Tiv umbilical cord, extends as far as Central Cameroon, to East Africa.

Late Pharmacist Tashaku Orodi, from the present Logo Local government, who was the first Minister of Lagos, has an area called “Olodi”, in Lagos, named after him. This area,has a huge population of people from Benue.

So the strategy of Benue’s greatest 2023 Governorship project, is to forensically seek and identify links to Benue.

Besides, economically speaking, no state or country, can exist in isolation, that is why in developed democracies, people can vote electronically from the Diaspora. Benue must brace up for a greater future.

Let’s embrace a NEW VISION & A NEW DIRECTION.

By Theresa Moses

The Giant of Africa, Nigeria, is famous for producing quality contents in entertainment, innovative business ideas in the entrepreneurial sphere, creativity in built industry and more enabling talents sprouting in diverse fields. With the advent of reality TV shows in the country, a whole lot of mediocrity is being celebrated over excellent creativity, which calls for concern.

Recently, I was involved in a unique and the first of its kind CELEBRITY COME BUILD REALITY TV SHOW (watch episodes @CCBNAIJA YouTube Channel on www.youtube.com), in which the ultimate winner gets N120 million inclusive of a 5-Bedroom Duplex in Lekki, all-expense paid trip to Dubai, and more. One of the lucky viewers will win a 3-bedroom bungalow and the profit from it is designed to kick-start social-housing programme for low and middle-income earners in dignity. Twelve celebrities across Africa are on a construction site sweating and toiling, with their hands soiled as they carry head-pans of mixed sand, cement and concrete to build the two units of 3-bedroom bungalows. Although new, but despite its novelty, the shocking truth is that it’s barely gaining the deserved attention because the show is not promoting nudity or free sex.
So one wonders: Why then do we love to celebrate and spend money to sponsor group of individuals for staying in a house kissing, eating, gossiping, quarreling, fighting, sleeping, having free sex? As Covid-19 Pandemic deals with Nigerians, many are out of jobs, source of livelihood taken from them; in 71-days, over 900 million votes were cast during the season 5 of Big Brother Naija. With limited resources and hunger in the land, in 2020, over N27 billion was generated from a show of obscenity. That is, 900,000,000 votes @ N30 per sms). Why do brand managers and corporate brand promotion agencies give priority to the obscenity by sponsoring and advertising in the BBN through the years?

The novel CCBNaija is a star-studded production, which uses fun to develop home ownership, empower viewing public and built industry career cum skills acquisition. It encourages the youth as well as finds a solution to one of the fundamental societal problems - shelter.
If the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) calls on Nigerian citizens, especially its youths to vote on their mobile phones @ N10 per SMS to elect leaders that will shape their future and the country, won't they ask the government to credit their accounts first before they will agree to vote? I guess you know the answer.
A post like this: “Incredible! CCBNAIJA Offers 3-Bedroom Bungalow to one Lucky Fan” may get 10 Comments, 12 Likes, 6 Shares and 20 views because of the reality of who we are as people and where our priority lies as citizens; whereas the post, “Big Brother Naija: Medline caught on camera having sex with William will get 180.7k Comments, 300.3k Likes, 170.8k Shares and 570k views.

Just as Mr. Gbola Oba, Visioner/Co-Founder, www.ulda-edu.ng and CCBNAIJA says: “I'm confident that Nigeria will sooner be better visionaries and enterprise value-innovators (the class that I stubbornly resolve to belong), must not be tired chasing good ideas with integrity.”

I believe we all, especially corporate Nigeria, have a choice to either change the narrative or be part of the immorality doom befalling Nigeria.

By Theresa Moses

Like they say, soldier go soldier come, barrack remains the same. The Nigerian Police Force has its ups and downs especially with the crop of bad eggs among the good ones, but who can tell who is what. But As a journalist, especially a security news publisher, covering the police has opened my eyes to so many things, the good, the bad and the ugly. One thing is for sure, the day I encountered CSP Olumyiwa Adejobi will never be forgotten.

Like every journalist looking to always break the news and get connected to the source, which is key; I just wanted to see a different side of the force, a positive one. December 9, 2020, I walked into the Lagos State Police Command, Ikeja, and was introduced to CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi (mnipr), the Police Public Relations Officer seated in a Patrol Hilux vehicle. We exchanged pleasantries. I engaged him in a chat which ended up with light jokes as laughter filled the air. It was indeed a moment that changed it all. I knew, for sure, that he's so passionate about the job and is willing to die for the job, if circumstances demand it.

As days, weeks, months passed by, I get first-hand information and clarification from the PPRO also when I come to cover parades of suspects at the headquarters. I found out that despite his ever-demanding job, he replies to messages as quickly as possible and is always ready to listen and clear the air on fake news and the like. I stay afar, wondering how he gets the energy to always respond, send press releases, organise press conferences and still endeavour not offend any reporter. I must confess, dealing with the media is not an easy job, the print with its deadlines, the electronic with its visuals and the new media which wants to be heard - all are in a hurry to break news without proper clarification.

April 16, 2021, was another memorable encounter with the PPRO: Reality dawned on me after the exclusive interview with CSP Adejobi when he let it all out. As a journalist, I’ve heard so much about him and I began to wonder what sort of a person is this? Over an hour, he passionately talked about the Police Force, what you would change, your preferred punishment for bad eggs spoiling the good image of the force, how you manage the media, personal life and more. Getting you to grant the interview wasn’t easy. Waiting for over 4 hours in the office for the interview, as he responded to my call saying he was on duty with the Commissioner of Police, Hakeem Odumosu, yet got me updated that he will make it up as soon as he was done with the boss. If it were other officers, they would not care to reply or even grant the interview that very day as there was enough reason to give an excuse. But Muyiwa didn’t give an excuse, he kept his words and the interview was granted even with people waiting to see you.

I was listening to the way he answered the questions effortlessly and passionately, so keen on succeeding in the fight against crime and criminality in Lagos State. There and then I knew I have a genuine friend in the Police Force. I wish more were like you, passionate, selfless and god-fearing. I want to celebrate you while you are still alive. I want you to know that you are a good man and one of the best things to ever happen to the Police Force. As you move to the next level, I pray you continue your good deed. Thanks for being a good friend of the media and will always support your good deed whenever you need it.

Multiple award-winning Osun State-born Prince; CSP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, former Police Public Relations Officer, Lagos State Command, Ikeja, hails from Owu Kingdom, a royal family that has produced many police officers. Currently, five of his family members work with the Nigeria Police Force.

The ever-smiling ex-Lagos Police spokesman is a member of associations and professional bodies, including Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Pointman Leadership Institute, USA; International Association of Chiefs of Police, United States of America; Institute of Corporate Administration, Nigeria; Boys Brigade, Church of Nigeria Anglican Communion as well as several social clubs in Nigeria and abroad.

Among his awards are Best Police Public Relations Officer in West Africa, by Security Watch Africa, Dubai, United Arab Emirate; Best Police Public Relations Officer in Nigeria, by Security Watch Africa, Johannesburg, South Africa; merit award by Nigerian Institute of Public Relations, Ogun State Chapter.

• Mercy Aigbe Absent as Josh2funny Glorifies God and Appreciates Fans

By Theresa Moses

The journey for the ultimate prize of N120 million, inclusive of a 5-Bedroom Duplex in Lekki, all-expense paid trip to Dubai, and lots more, for the winner of the Celebrity Come Build Naija Reality TV Show has ended for Ninalowo Bolanle, alias Nino-B, as he becomes the first housemate to be evicted from the Reality TV Show.

Three celebrities - Mercy Aigbe, Josh2funny and Ninalowo Bolanle - were placed on probation for possible eviction, following their low performance in their tasks. Ninalowo Bolanle wasn’t able to be saved by his fans, having scored the lowest votes among the three on probation.

Josh2funny who couldn’t contain his joy of being saved by his fans said: “I couldn’t believe I’m going to escape eviction, but I escaped it. I thank God who has made it possible and I thank all my fans that have voted for me; they have tried to vote me into the show. I want to thank them.”

The comedian promised to bring out his A-game from now till the end of the show. “What you are going to see is hard work. I am going to be working very hard.”
Mercy Aigbe was however absent at the eviction show due to injury sustained on site. The remaining celebrities to battle for the grand price in this taxing building project are: Nkechi Blessing Sunday (NBS), Munirat Antoinette Lecky (Antolecky), Saheed Muhammed (Funky Mallam), Michael Ugochukwu Stephens (Ruggedman), Rosemary Afuwape (Rosie), Tope Adenibuyan (Teddy A), Adeyela Adebola (Lizzy Jay), Mercy Aigbe and Josh Alfred (Josh2funny).

As your favourite celebrities are getting busy, remember that the winner of CCBNaija can ONLY be determined by YOU, the viewer. Bear in mind that one lucky fan with the highest vote wins the 3-Bedroom Bungalow built by the celebrities. As a fan, the more votes you cast for your favourite celebrities the better your chance of winning the prize.

Search for “CCBNaija”on YouTube to watch daily episodes of the show. Also catch all the building drama, raw unfiltered access and footages of your favourite celebrities daily on the following stations:

1. BEN TV UK at 8:30 PM
2. Premium Box Office (Star Times Channel 017 DTT & 184 DTH at 7:30 PM)
3. Dove TV at 11:30 PM
4. Wakaati TV (On Star Times Channel 100 & 200 at 6:30 PM)
5. Plus TV Africa (DSTV Channel 408 at 5:30 PM Monday-Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 5:00 PM)
6. Avo TV (Wakaati TV at 6:30 PM) for viewers in Europe.

HOW TO VOTE:
*bankcode*000*contestant code (number of votes) for example, (if you are using GTB and sending 10 votes) *737*000*54900010#
Teddy A Code: 5491001; Mercy Aigbe Code: 549002; Anto Lecky Code: 5491002; Rosie Code: 5491003; Funky Mallam Code: 5491004; Josh 2 funny Code: 5491005; Nkechi Blessing Code: 5491007; Lizzy Jay Code: 5491008; Ruggedman Code: 5491009.

To vote for your favourite celebrity in Nigeria, visit:

www.ccbnaija.com/vote

Click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method, and complete the steps.

For voters outside Nigeria, visit

www.ccbnaija.com/vote

CLICK on the international vote button at the top of the page, click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method and complete the steps.

For advert placement, contact us today via email: gatmashblog@gmail.com or call our hotlines on Tel: +234(0)9076248001

• As likely Evictees Brace up for exit

The unique and first-of-its-kind reality TV show, Celebrity Come Build Naija has found its first lovebirds, Rosemary Afuwape popularly known as Rosie and Michael Ugochukwu Stephens a.k.a Ruggedman, who fans wish they stay together when the cameras are switched off.

In an exclusive chat with versatile Journalist Theresa Moses, Blog-Coordinator of the CCBNAIJA Reality TV Show; reality star Rosie and rapper Ruggedman gushed on each other, talking about their mutual love, their expectations, the show and more.

At first, when the celebrities hooked up on the show, most people predicted it was just a show-off. A month into the show, the lovebirds has deepened their romance rumour as they set the social media on fire with love-up pictures. Rosie and Ruggedman confirmed “CCBNaija Celebrity couple” status with a yes when asked.

Speaking on when the love sparked up, Rosie who spoke first averred: “I think the first week when we came back to the show after the training sessions/lectures.” Ruggedman agreed, saying: “Same for me too even though she's a bully, but yeah no problem.” Rosie responded, “as if he’s not one” while Ruggedman said he was innocent.

On what attracted them to each other, Ruggedman with a radiating smile enthused: “I think her long nose (laughs). She’s one of the most beautiful girls I have ever seen, and she’s very intelligent.” Rosie smiling and blushing said: “He’s funny, he teases me a lot; but then when he’s serious he is serious and he means business and encourages me as well to pursue my dreams.” Ruggedman cuts in saying, that’s why I always ask her to sleep early “so you can pursue your dream. It’s when you sleep that you dream, so pursue your dreams,” both laughed.

Rosie and Ruggedman were separated due to team selection; asked how they felt, Ruggedman who was caught several times sneaking and jumping across to peep through the windows while work is going on said:

“It doesn’t stop us doing what we are doing really. Even when I go to peep, she’s the first person to say (Mimic Rosie) ‘go back to your team’ (both laugh), but it’s okay.”

Rosie expressed how she feeling: “Separating us didn’t let us get distracted in any way. I mean we know what we are here for regardless of whatever. When he comes to check up on me, sometimes I’m too serious with my work that I don’t notice he’s there; my teammates will have to touch me and yes, I will still be the first to tell him to go back to his team to work, reminding him that hey, we are here for something, which he does but for me it’s all about the care.”

How were you guys able to sort out the misunderstanding you had during one of your tasks on site?
Ruggedman said: “For me, it’s no issue, you can’t live without having issues definitely and I think there was some kind of misunderstanding. I don’t think. Do you want to do tilling? (Rosie said no) so why were you picking my tape and measuring? Rosie: ‘because everyone joined in and I was the only one at some point doing wiring which wasn’t the deal.’ (Ruggedman cut in) but you should have told Funky Mallam to join you because it was just four of us.”

Clarifying the misunderstanding, Rosie said: “But then I was upset with you; because when we were coming to site I told you that yesterday (referring to the previous day) we did more tiling and I would want to do something different.” Ruggedman cut in “Yes, which was why I agreed to doing the tiling, or you wanted us to do something different? He asked.” Rosie said yes and Ruggedman concluded: “Oh, I thought you just wanted to do something different, that’s why I just quickly jumped saying I will do the tiling. I probably didn’t hear that you wanted us to do tiling together.”
“Yes, I agreed, but I don't know what I was arguing.”

“You should have said it; sometimes I don’t understand sign language. That was it basically, and it was sorted. You can’t get angry with ice-cream for that long.”

Aside from the romantic drama, asked what more should we look forward to? Ruggedman opined: “I am looking forward to us working, to me doing a lot of things because she’s already doing a lot. Madam works too much. Look forward to me trying to catch-up and then hopefully I pray she wins it or I win it. We will cut it into two.” Rosie is sure it’s a win-win anyway.

Friday’s task was about plumbing fixtures, which includes the WC, shower, water heater, washing-hand basin, etc. It was a rainy day and the eviction fever was felt among potential evictees and colleagues as they are uncertain of who will be out of the show come Sunday evening.

As your favourite celebrities are getting busy for the ultimate prize of N120 million inclusive of a 5-Bedroom Duplex in Lekki, all-expense paid trip to Dubai, and lots more, remember that the winner of CCBNaija can ONLY be determined by YOU, the viewer. Bear in mind that one lucky fan with the highest vote wins the 3-Bedroom Bungalow built by the celebrities. As a fan, the more votes you cast for your favourite celebrities the better your chance of winning the prize.

Search for “CCBNaija” on YouTube to watch daily episodes of the show. Also catch all the building drama, raw unfiltered access and footages of your favourite celebrities daily on the following stations:

1. Biscon TV (GOTV Channel 108 at 8:30 PM)
2. Core TV News (Online at 8:30 PM)
3. BEN TV at 8:30 PM
4. Premium Box Office (Star Times Channel 017 DTT & 184 DTH at 7:30 PM)
5. Dove TV at 11:30 PM
6. Wakaati TV (On Star Times Channel 100 & 200 at 6:30 PM)
7. Plus TV Africa (DSTV Channel 408 at 5:30 PM Monday-Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 5:00 PM)
8. Avo TV (Wakaati TV at 6:30 PM) for viewers in Europe

HOW TO VOTE:
*bankcode*000*contestant code (number of votes) for example, (if you are using GTB and sending 10 votes) *737*000*54900010#
Teddy A Code: 5491001; Mercy Aigbe Code: 549002; Anto Lecky Code: 5491002; Rosie Code: 5491003; Funky Mallam Code: 5491004; Josh 2 funny Code: 5491005; Akuapem poloo Code: 5491006; Nkechi Blessing Code: 5491007; Lizzy Jay Code: 5491008; Ruggedman Code: 5491009; Ninalowo Bolanle Code: 5491010.
To vote for your favourite celebrity in Nigeria, visit:

www.ccbnaija.com/vote

Click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method, and complete the steps.

For voters outside Nigeria, visit

www.ccbnaija.com/vote

CLICK on the international vote button at the top of the page, click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method and complete the steps.

*As Celebrities get busier on electrical fittings and fixtures

Brain machine of the Celebrity Come Build Naija Reality TV Show, Munirat Antoinette Lecky, fondly called Anto Lecky, talks about her driving force, what stands her out, her ultimate goal and more in an exclusive chat with versatile Journalist Theresa Moses, Blog-Coordinator of the CCBNAIJA Reality TV Show.

The multi-talented Nigerian-American personality, who hails from Edo State, was born to the family of Mr and Mrs Lecky in Newark, New Jersey, in the United States of America over 3 decades ago. Her intelligence and smartness is a force to reckon with among other contestants in the show. Asked how her stay in the house has been so far, she smiled and said: “It’s been fun and interesting. I am always interested in learning and trying new things. That's why I came into the show and I’m having a great time working on a house and it’s also interesting being around my colleagues. It’s not bad but, honestly, I can’t lie; I want to win the prize and then go back to my house, because I prefer my own space.”

Anto strongly believes that despite the fact that there are others in the house that has fans with more money than hers, she is at an advantage winning the show.

“I believe I have the grace of God first and foremost. In general, I am working really hard; anything I do I put all of myself into it and I’m not taking this lightly. I’m a little bit relaxed, but I’m very serious about the work and I truly do want to win. I can be very honest: there are people who have an advantage when talking about fans, there are people who have more fans than me; there are people who have fans with more money than me. I’ve been in a reality show before so I know how this game works. I am hoping that people that are watching this show are more interested in what's happening on the show and not just how they feel about people off-screen. I think I am doing my best,” she said.

The reality star’s biggest passion to date includes health and wellness, sports, education, and women’s affairs. Recently, some of her colleagues are falling ill due to the rigours and stress of the project. Asked how she has been able to resist falling sick, the Melanin queen said:
“Odeshi dey for my black skin! (Laughs). Honestly, I’d say it’s the grace of God that I am doing very well. I think I am very focused on the task. I think sometime people fall ill because it’s more of mental thing; lots of time not because something beat you or what have you, just that you are not really in a mental state to be focused on a task; and I’m not allowing myself to get sick because I want to make it to the end and I want to win the house. I actually suffer from some digestive issues, but I’m not complaining about it because complaining is not going to solve the issue. So I am just most interested in whatever I have to do to win the prize at the end of the day. I’m just hoping I don’t fall sick; even if I do, I think I will be strong enough to push through.”

Anto Lecky is a huge role model when it comes to education, obtaining her BA and dual Masters degrees in Business Management and Sports Management, she was conferred with honorary doctorate in Business Administration from ISCOM University, Benin Republic. Reacting to housemates calling her a genius, she smiled and said:

“I don’t know if it's genius; that’s a big word. I’m very grateful that they do think that I am intelligent and smart. I do try, I can be honest, I am a bad bitch; forget I know the book well, I know that but I do think that I am actually trying my best to understand. That’s the difference; some people feel like being brilliant or smart is natural. It might be natural, but I do think that if you focus and pay attention to things and you practice, you will gain the knowledge either way. I don’t think there’s anything that is more special. Yes, I have masters, honorary doctorate, etc., I just think in general because I am very dedicated to the course and I love to learn new things.”

There’s no way one will take away romance from a reality show, as such CCBNAIJA can boast of the love tango between Rosie and Ruggedman. When asked what her opinion is, she laughed out loud saying: “That one is strictly just cruise, it’s just cruise; they are just having a good time. You know, we are all locked up in this place, it’s not as tight and confined as other reality shows, but we are away from our loved ones for days on it. I think everyone is just having their different kinds of fun; but I don’t think it’s anything serious.”

Though raised in New Jersey, her parents taught her about the culture and traditions of Nigeria; as such her mindset to dealing with people of different kinds of backgrounds, attitudes and skill level is felt in the show.

“One thing I’d take away is also something I don’t think is a new thing: it’s something I’ve learnt before but it’s a re-enforcement that when you really put your mind to things you can accomplish anything; and if you have patience and just grace that you would be able to deal with people of different kinds of backgrounds, attitudes and skill level. I really think that if you focus on the task things will really be easier. I feel like in life most people are always complaining about things, but I’ve learned that it’s very important to be a problem-solver. So, I am always ready to get my hands dirty, always ready to get involved. I think if you know how to be a problem-solver, life will be much easier,” she states.

Speaking of the funniest housemates that bring her out of her shell, she called out Josh2funny because to her, he’s naturally funny and hilarious.

“I think, I’d say the funniest is Josh. His name is Josh2funny and he's naturally funny and hilarious. He’s not fine; he’s just too natural for him. I don’t think he’s trying to do it on purpose or bring me out of a shell; he is just a funny guy.”

Anto’s final word: “Winner, that’s my final word,” she concludes.

Thursday’s task was about electrical fittings and fixtures, which includes the wall brackets, switches, sockets, internal lighting fittings and wall screeding. It was fun seeing your celebrities carrying cables, rolling it and getting busy for the ultimate prize of N120 million, inclusive of a 5-Bedroom Duplex in Lekki, all-expense paid trip to Dubai, and lots more.

The winner of CCBNaija can ONLY be determined by YOU, the viewer. Bear in mind that one lucky fan with the highest vote wins a 3-Bedroom Bungalow built by the celebrities. As a fan, the more votes you cast for your favourite celebrities the better your chance of winning the prize.

Search for “CCBNaija” on YouTube to watch daily episodes of the show. Also catch all the building drama, raw unfiltered access and footages of your favourite celebrities daily on the following stations:

1. Biscon TV (GOTV Channel 108 at 8:30 PM)
2. Core TV News (Online at 8:30 PM)
3. BEN TV at 8:30 PM
4. Premium Box Office (Star Times Channel 017 DTT & 184 DTH at 7:30 PM)
5. Dove TV at 11:30 PM
6. Wakaati TV (On Star Times Channel 100 & 200 at 6:30 PM)
7. Plus TV Africa (DSTV Channel 408 at 5:30 PM Monday-Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 5:00 PM)
8. Avo TV (Wakaati TV at 6:30 PM) for viewers in Europe.

HOW TO VOTE:
*bankcode*000*contestant code (number of votes) for example, (if you are using GTB and sending 10 votes) *737*000*54900010#
Teddy A Code: 5491001; Mercy Aigbe Code: 549002; Anto Lecky Code: 5491002; Rosie Code: 5491003; Funky Mallam Code: 5491004; Josh 2 funny Code: 5491005; Akuapem poloo Code: 5491006; Nkechi Blessing Code: 5491007; Lizzy Jay Code: 5491008; Ruggedman Code: 5491009; Ninalowo Bolanle Code: 5491010.

To vote for your favourite celebrity in Nigeria, visit:

www.ccbnaija.com/vote

Click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method, and complete the steps.

For voters outside Nigeria, visit

www.ccbnaija.com/vote

CLICK on the international vote button at the top of the page, click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method and complete the steps.

Ten celebrities are in the rain and sun sweating and toiling with their hands soiled on the construction site in Lagos, as they fix the ceilings, electrification, tilling, screeding, plumbing of a two unit 3-Bedroom Bungalows they started from scratch in the novel Celebrity Come Build Naija Reality TV Show (CCBNaija).

The breeze of eviction is blowing cold as one out of the three celebrities on eviction (Mercy Aigbe, Josh2funny and Ninalowo Bolanle) will be the first housemate to be evicted from the show this weekend. As such, the tension is high and all hands are on deck to make sure the work is professionally done. The laughs and thrills of the celebrities on site have been on low-key since the beginning of the week due to the beak-down in health occasioned by the rigorous stress in building and construction work.
The winner of CCBNaija can ONLY be determined by YOU the viewer/voter. Bear in mind that one lucky fan with the highest vote wins a 3-Bedroom Bungalow built by the celebrities. As a fan, the more votes you cast for your favourite celebrities the better your chance of winning the prize.

Search for ‘CCBNaija’ on YouTube to watch daily episodes of the show. Also catch all the building drama, raw unfiltered access and footages of your favourite celebrities daily on the following stations:

1. Biscon TV (GOTV Channel 108 at 8:30 PM)

2. Core TV News (Online at 8:30 PM)

3. BEN TV at 8:30 PM

4. Premium Box Office (Star Times Channel 017 DTT & 184 DTH at 7:30 PM)

5. Dove TV at 11:30 PM

6. Wakaati TV (On Star Times Channel 100 & 200 at 6:30 PM).

7. Plus TV Africa (DSTV Channel 408 at 5:30 PM Monday-Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 5:00 PM)

8. Avo TV (Wakaati TV at 6:30 PM) for viewers in Europe.

The celebrity participants in this tasking building project are: Nkechi Blessing Sunday (NBS), Munirat Antoinette Lecky (Antolecky), Saheed Muhammed (Funky Mallam), Michael Ugochukwu Stephens (Ruggedman), Rosemary Afuwape (Rosie), Tope Adenibuyan (Teddy A), Adeyela Adebola (Lizzy Jay), Bolanle Ninalowo (Makanaki), Mercy Aigbe and Josh Alfred (Josh2funny).
Divided into two teams, they live together in the CCBNaija House with unlimited fun, argument, love tango, lots of drama to battle for the ultimate prize of N120 million inclusive of a 5-Bedroom Duplex in Lekki, an all-expense paid trip to Dubai, and lots more.

HOW TO VOTE:
*bankcode*000*contestant code (number of votes) for example, (if you are using GTB and sending 10 votes) *737*000*54900010#
Teddy A Code: 5491001; Mercy Aigbe Code: 549002; Anto Lecky Code: 5491002; Rosie Code: 5491003; Funky Mallam Code: 5491004; Josh 2 funny Code: 5491005; Akuapem poloo Code: 5491006; Nkechi Blessing Code: 5491007; Lizzy Jay Code: 5491008; Ruggedman Code: 5491009; Ninalowo Bolanle Code: 5491010.

To vote for your favourite celebrity in Nigeria,

visit:

www.ccbnaija.com/vote

Click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method, and complete the steps.

For voters outside Nigeria, visit

www.ccbnaija.com/vote

CLICK on the international vote button at the top of the page, click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method and complete the steps.

* As Mercy Aigbe, Josh2funny beg to be saved

Highly motivated energy goddess of the Celebrity Come Build Reality TV Show, Nkechi Blessing Sunday, fondly called NBS, has revealed the secret to her successful team lead for consecutive three weeks in an exclusive chat with versatile Journalist, Theresa Moses, Blog-Coordinator of the CCBNAIJA Reality TV Show.

Asked where she derives her energy and vibes for this challenging task. She said: “My strength is from God, because He is the Master Planner of all of these; if God doesn’t want this, He won’t keep me solid on my feet 24 hours. I was down with malaria yesterday and I couldn’t move; I was sleeping all through, had several injections on my bum, took drugs, but here I am this morning hale and hearty, strong; went to site earlier today and I’m here still kicking; the energy goddess, e for energy.”

Talking about the secret ingredient to her successful team lead for three weeks in a row, NBS said nothing aside from prayers and my fans.
“I must say I have one of the most supportive fans, yes. This is it; the only secret I think is my relationship with my fans. I have a very close relationship with my fans, I communicate with them. Do you know your fans; do your fans know you? You don’t just come to your fans when you need them alone; you have to be there for them so they can be there for you too.

“Aside from the fact that I pray and I put all of this in God’s hands, let your will be done. I think I am like the smallest of all the contestants when it comes to followers on Instagram; but by the Grace of God, with your votes, I happened to be here for the third week running; I know you guys are voting for me already like this in order to make me the team leader for the fourth week. By the special grace of God, that will happen; nothing else but my wonderful fans and God Almighty always.”

With the kind of strength she puts into the construction work on site, some people see her to be a man in a woman’s body. In reaction, Nkechi has this to say:
“I was born to be the head and not the tail; I was born strong to take care of myself and my family. I have the heart of a man because, to the glory of God, am the bread-winner of my family; so you know what it takes to be the bread-winner of your family; where you have all the responsibilities of your family on your shoulder, so you have to work like a man.
“It’s only my physical appearance that makes me a woman, but right inside me I have the energy of a lion, a tiger, I never get tired even though I am tired. Even though you need to rest, because na person wey rest go live to enjoy the money wey him work for. But still you need to work and keep it moving, take care of yourself, health, but still continue your grinding to last; because too much money no dey cure some kind illness.”

On health-care and welfare, she opined: “All thanks to the CCBNAIJA Team and Medicplus nurses and doctors for always coming through for us each time we feel weak and can’t continue; that’s why we have them to always re-fuel us to continue this ride because it’s a long ride as the competition is getting tougher.”

Nkechi begged to be kept till the end of the show so she and her number one fan will be house owners in Lagos. “To the lovers of success, you all love success and love to see people successful, I don’t want you to stop voting for me. I swear to God, I need this more than anything else. I no get house for Lagos, I no buy house, I dey rent for the past 32 years of my life. If you make me win this, it’s going to be you taking somebody out of the gutter and making the person a millionaire. You see how beautiful it is and God will bless you for doing that. Again, you are not just going to bless me; you are also going to become a landlord through me, as it is a win-win. If I were you, I would get my phone now and continue to vote, click on the link on my bio and continue to vote for me. If you’re in the Diaspora, feel free to send me a DM, I will send you a direct link on how to vote to keep me going to win in this competition, God bless you and all the things that you lay your hands on. It’s your girl, NBS, aka nothing but success.”

CCBNAIJA contestants on probation this week, Mercy Aigbe and Josh2funny, were on site to get their hands dirty while they begged to be saved from possible eviction this weekend as their stay depends on how their fans love them.
Mercy pleaded saying, “I’ve been begging you people to vote for me. Yes, I want to appreciate those of you who have been voting for me, those who have reposted the fliers, my pictures so that I can get more votes; but it’s not enough. I did not take your love for granted, I need more love as I am on probation this week for possible eviction and I don’t want to go home. What is happening to my fans, people need to know that I have loyal fans, fans that will go all out for me. Please, I am begging you guys to keep me in the house by voting and don’t forget it’s a win-win thing. The highest voting viewer will win a 3-bedroom bungalow. Please, I’m begging you guys to keep me in the house by voting for me. If I win the house, I go settle una. Please, show me the love you guys have been showing me over the years, I need it now, that love has to come now.”

The ever-smiling Josh2funny who was recuperating from illness said: “I will try and leave the probation. I’ve really been absent from the site because of my health. So no vex, no probate me, but in-probate me and un-probate me as I’m in probation for possible eviction; help me to stay on the show. Vote for me and keep your boy on the show. Let's do this and if you love me, keep me by voting.”

It’s no news that the last man standing will win a whopping N120 million, aside a 5 Bedroom duplex in Lekki, all-expense paid trip to Dubai, and lots more. One lucky fan with the highest vote wins a 3-Bedroom Bungalow built by the celebrities. As a fan, the more votes you cast for your favourite celebrities the better your chance of winning the prize.

HOW TO VOTE:
*bankcode*000*contestant code (number of votes) for example, (if you are using GTB and sending 10 votes) *737*000*54900010#
Teddy A Code: 5491001; Mercy Aigbe Code: 549002; Anto Lecky Code: 5491002; Rosie Code: 5491003; Funky Mallam Code: 5491004; Josh 2 funny Code: 5491005; Akuapem poloo Code: 5491006; Nkechi Blessing Code: 5491007; Lizzy Jay Code: 5491008; Ruggedman Code: 5491009; Ninalowo Bolanle Code: 5491010.

To vote for your favourite celebrity in Nigeria,

visit: www.ccbnaija.com/vote

Click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method, and complete the steps.

For voters outside Nigeria,

visit www.ccbnaija.com/vote

CLICK on the international vote button at the top of the page, click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method and complete the steps.

• Celebrities pay tribute to lyrical legend Sound Sultan

By Theresa Moses

It was an intense Monday evening as contestants of the Celebrity Come Build Reality TV Show gathered in the living room to hear host, Andre Blaze, announce the result of the team leads and performance as verified by voting fans and judges respectively.

Earlier in the morning, Engr. Babatunde Faleye, one of the judges, assessed the activities of the celebrities for the week and read out the team performance.

“We have project managers on every team who observe, take attendance, taking innovative activities of individuals on site to standard and precision, to the energy, dedication to work and individual averages of the contestants.

“Team A: Nkechi Blessing Sunday, Funky Mallam, Ninalowo Bolanle, Ruggedman and Lizzy Jay with an overall score of 94.4 per cent. Team B: Rosie, Anto Lecky, Teddy A, Josh 2 funny and Mercy Aigbe with an overall score of 91.3 per cent,” he said, adding:
“On the first week, we doled out averages per team; as a result, some layback and say let others take drive while they relax. At the end of the day the artisans will do a good job while they do nothing. But now the game changes. Individual performance is a key ranking on the show as work ethics, behaviours come to play.”

Nkechi Blessing Sunday emerged team leader for Team A for the third time in three weeks as Funky Mallam bounces back to lead Team B. The celebrities were excited and expressed gratitude to their fans for voting every week to keep them in the house for the ultimate prize of N120 million, which includes a 5-Bedroom duplex in Lekki, all-expense paid trip to Dubai, and lots more.

Also, some of the contestants paid tribute to the multitalented veteran singer, rapper, songwriter, actor Olanrewaju Abdul-Ganiu Fasasi, popularly known as Sound Sultan, who died early hours of Sunday Morning in New York.

Nkechi Blessing said: “It’s sad; we all came, and we live, everybody will die. We all are going to die one day. My heartfelt condolence to the family of Sound Sultan. ‘You were a legend, you gave us good music, and we love you even in death. May you live forever in our hearts, Sound Sultan.”

Funky Mallam noted: “It is heartbreaking but, like it’s said, every soul will taste death, so it depends on how it comes. Thank God he had a lot of people talk good about him. The kind of person that takes life simple and has helped a lot of people, that’s why you see the kind of tribute that is coming up from different places. It’s good to be good in life, whether we like it or not, death is inevitable. But then, how do we die and what legacy are we going to live?”

And Ruggedman mourned: “Woke up Sunday morning to the news that my friend, brother and colleague, Sound Sultan, has passed on. We were on a video call three weeks ago for over an hour. He called from the United State because I kept calling to find out what’s up with him. He was in good spirit, I always keep yapping him that he doesn’t take any alcohol, doesn’t smoke; yapping him that anytime we go out he finishes all the minerals (soft drinks).”

Anto Lecky said: “Yesterday was a serious one for me because I checked my phone and I realised that the very first picture I took when I moved to Nigeria was with Sound Sultan.”

Teddy A said: “My deepest condolences to Lanre Fasasi’s family may his soul rest in perfect peace. Everyone knows him as a loving, wonderful and a great family man. Rest in power!”

Mercy Aigbe added: “Rest in power king, legend. It’s really sad, yesterday was a sad day for me when I heard his passing. I saw it online as I was busy celebrating my daughter’s 20th birthday. When I saw it just spoilt my mood all day. I’ve love him since the day of jagbantis. He’s a very creative person and one can tell that he has a great personality. His passing at 44 years is so sad. May God continue to comfort his beautiful wife and children; may God strengthen them. Rest in peace Sound Sultan, we love you but God love you best.”

The Jagbajantis crooner passed away at the age of 44, following a hard fought battle with angioimmunoblastic t-cell lymphoma. He is survived by his wife, three children and siblings.

So, keep voting for your favourite celebrities as one lucky fan with the highest vote stands a chance of winning the 3-Bedroom Bungalow built by the celebrities. As a fan, the more votes you cast for your favourite celebrities the better your chance of winning the prize.

HOW TO VOTE:
*bankcode*000*contestant code (number of votes) for example, (if you are using GTB and sending 10 votes) *737*000*54900010#
Teddy A Code: 5491001; Mercy Aigbe Code: 549002; Anto Lecky Code: 5491002; Rosie Code: 5491003; Funky Mallam Code: 5491004; Josh 2 funny Code: 5491005; Akuapem poloo Code: 5491006; Nkechi Blessing Code: 5491007; Lizzy Jay Code: 5491008; Ruggedman Code: 5491009; Ninalowo Bolanle Code: 5491010.

To vote for your favourite celebrity in Nigeria,

visit: www.ccbnaija.com/vote

Click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method, and complete the steps.

For voters outside Nigeria,

visit www.ccbnaija.com/vote

CLICK on the international vote button at the top of the page, click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method and complete the steps.

One of the contestants of the Celebrity Come Build Reality TV Show, Saeed Muhammed, popularly known as Funky Mallam, plans to partner with banks, northern governors to build affordable housing for northerners with the vast knowledge he has acquired in the course of the reality event.

He made this statement while responding to critics that he was team lead for week one but dropped in week two due to low votes because northerners didn’t vote for him.

Speaking in Hausa language, his response was impressive especially with the rate at which northerners are now campaigning for him, even the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) National Vice President, South West, Femi Branch and the Igbo groups.

“It’s not because the northerners did not vote; I had lots of votes from the north, but because things keep changing and people don’t get to vote for you every week. But I’m very optimistic that this week there will be a difference because I’ve been seeing the signs people like Alli Nuhu, Uzee Usman of Uzi Concept has started flagging the campaign for me there in the north and so many other places even Laura Ikeji actually posted me, Kingsley Chinweike Okonkwo, better known as KCEE, Femi Branch and so many other people are rooting for me,” he said.

When asked what the benefit is for the northerners if they vote massively for him to win the show, he said: “There is a lot of benefit for my voting fans because I’ll be coming with a lot of project that will be going round to help people in need of shelter, because I’ll like to go into building and construction; starting from the small-scale people who will need little amounts to build their own houses. This is the plan I have and joining hands with my bank and the northern governors, I hope to achieve all this with God by my side.”

Funky Mallam is always a delight to watch on site whenever he’s working. His ever-smiling face gladdens his team-mates and colleagues, making activities on site fun. Since the northerners are always proud of their own, let’s see how far they get Saeed Muhammed to the final of the show. The ultimate prize for the winner is N120 million, including a 5-Bedroom Duplex in Lekki, an all-expense paid trip to Dubai,s and lots more.

So keep voting for your favorite celebrities as one lucky fan with the highest vote stands a chance of winning a 3-Bedroom Bungalow built by the celebrities. As a fan, the more votes you cast for your favourite celebrities the better your chance of winning the prize.

HOW TO VOTE:
*bankcode*000*contestant code (number of votes) for example, (if you are using GTB and sending 10 votes) *737*000*54900010#

Teddy A Code: 5491001; Mercy Aigbe Code: 549002; Anto Lecky Code: 5491002; Rosie Code: 5491003; Funky Mallam Code: 5491004; Josh 2 funny Code: 5491005; Akuapem poloo Code: 5491006; Nkechi Blessing Code: 5491007; Lizzy Jay Code: 5491008; Ruggedman Code: 5491009; Ninalowo Bolanle Code: 5491010.

To vote for your favourite celebrity in Nigeria, visit: www.ccbnaija.com/vote

Click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method, and complete the steps.

For voters outside Nigeria,

visit www.ccbnaija.com/vote

CLICK on the international vote button at the top of the page, click on the vote icon beneath your preferred celebrity's name: fill the form, submit, choose your preferred payment method and complete the steps.

*Shocked, Celebrities vow to key into National Housing Fund

By Theresa Moses

The Managing Director and Chief Executive Officer (MD/CEO) First Home Mortgage Brokers, Mrs. Olajumoke Fashanu, has emphasised the importance of home ownership and challenges of mortgage financing.

The chartered accountant with keen interest in real estate development and management who stated this during a courtesy visit to the Celebrity Come Build Reality TV Show noted: “Mortgage is not new in Nigeria, but there is a challenge. If there were more people coming up to share their testimonies and experiences, people would embrace it more. Mortgage is actually a bridge between your desire and the actualisation of your dream. It’s no longer real in our time and someone will have N10 million cash in a Ghana-must-go bag to procure a home. Everybody deserves to have, at least, a roof over their head, everybody deserves their dream to be actualised and a mortgage is what will help you to do that. So how do you go from someone who is just dreaming to someone who can live their dream? You need a mortgage broker.”

According to her, “a lot of people know about mortgages, but they don’t know about mortgage brokers. Mortgage brokers work for you, the individual. We ascertain your affordability; based on your affordability we know the value of property you can afford. So we give you options among those that are possible and available. We also walk you through the product that’s most suitable for you. Once you have those things in place, you can start inviting your friends for house warming”.

Mrs Fashanu, who has over 20 years on-job experience in the housing market and real estate sector in Nigeria made outstanding marks within the Finance, Business Development and Mortgage Banking sub-sector of the real estate industry, expressed her excitement to meet the celebrities one-on-one.

“I’m here to say thank you for all you do for your career and profession to make us happy, to make us laugh and we can’t say thank you enough; and to say thank you as you take out time out of your busy schedule to get your hands dirty. One thing I am sure of is that after this experience, all of you will be involved in property development, because there is something about bricks and mortar, you too will just fall in love with it. Especially, the fact that you build homes for people to live in; I am sure we’ve already gotten that,” she said.

In sharing her mortgage ideas with the celebrities, the MD/CEO told them to tell people that mortgage is real in Nigeria. “Mortgage is old in Nigeria, more than 60 years old, but people hide when they procure a mortgage, they pretend even to their families that they bought the property with cash whereas there is nothing to be ashamed about. So mortgage is real in Nigeria.
What are the three most important things that you need to do? She explained: “First, you need a mortgage broker. A broker works for you. Not even for any mortgage bank or institution. If anybody works in a particular institution you know they have been selling the product for you. What we do is ascertain your affordability; based on your affordability we are able to tell you the value of the mortgage you can take, tenure and most suitable product for you. One thing that people do not realise is: you can’t just wake up and that is part of the challenges in the scene, you know we like the fire brigade approach. In developed economies, when you are a teen, your parents are already asking you when you are moving out, otherwise you will be sharing part of the bill; you can’t live for free.

“So it means that if you are in college; as you are coming out, you are already opening a mortgage account to put in money little by little. So, anyone that will procure a mortgage must have what we call equity contribution, which is your own part in the property. But, for most of it, if you want a property of N5 million, you’ll need N500,000 in savings. You have to build up something you have to prepare for.”

Mrs Olajumoke Fashanu who is a member of the Institute of Directors; Council member, The Certified Pension Institute of Nigeria; Council member of The Lagos Chambers of Commerce & Industry and board member, Lagos International Trade Fair highlighted some challenges. “Another challenge that we normally have is when we do the pre-qualification transacting your affordability, for most people who their affordability is N5 million: guess what? They want to be in Lekki Phase 1 and take it personal that they have four wives, three wives: how do we want to do that? People don’t like to stay in their affordability.

“If I ask everybody what kind of car was your first car? My first car ever had smoke coming in from the engine and the boot; till now, I don’t know what was bringing out the smoke from the boot (Ruggedman answered, ‘the exhaust’); that may be it, but I had that as the first car. So when people by cars they prefer to upgrade; even if you ride a G Wagon, your first car is not a G Wagon. Yet, when it comes to home ownership, they don’t want to grow. If I take your affordability and I say this beautiful estate is where you can afford. It’s only very few people that can reason and reciprocate it, a lot of people will say ‘no, I want Lekki Phase 1, Oniru Estate,. Maryland, Ilupeju,’ which is not realistic.”
“How does Mortgage work? The First Home Mortgage boss explained: “The earlier the better; if you are 30 years old, you actually can procure a 30-year-old mortgage. Assuming someone is paying N15 million for 30 years: it’s good for the younger generations.”

She continued: “Another thing that people do not know about mortgage is it goes beyond providing you with a roof. Mortgage is actually a tool to impact your network. We have a client; herself and her husband live in a three-bedroom in Surulere; the property they took on mortgage is in Banana Island. So, the rent the tenant is paying pays the mortgage, sends their children to school abroad; so you don’t even need to live there. Mortgage is doable, your tenure comes longer the younger you are.

“If you have the money, assuming you take a mortgage for N10 million, your equity is N1 million, taking into consideration some of you are landlords you can pay back when you have it, there is no penalty for quick payment. Being a Nigerian is nothing to regret at all, every Nigerian that resides in this country can access the National Housing Fund. The National Housing Fund is everybody’s national cake; you take it once in a lifetime and the interest is 6 per cent per annum, but you have to be a subscriber to the scheme. Maximum monthly remittance for people that work is N3,000/N4,000 monthly basis; and that’s your savings that when you retire or when you are 60 you collect back as interest.”

Olajumoke states reasons why a lot of people think mortgages are not real. “Nigerians like raw cash, so everybody that wants to access the mortgage even under the scheme that are several houses already built that you can collect your key, everybody would later collect the equivalent of N15 million, which is the maximum so that they can go and build a property with 5 million, the wife will be the bricklayer, they will be plumber, their children will be the tiller, just to save cost. Whereas when you are building by your own sweat, even you like change the plumber, when the next rainy season comes it sweeps everything away and we just say sorry. But when it’s a mortgage, the house must be of good quality because the mortgage must be a mortgage of 30 years.

“ A lot of people also are afraid that if I take out a mortgage and I die, I’ve done house warming, so my children and my wife will be left stranded, then people would mock my wife that we come for house-warming and they give us small rice with chicken. But we have mortgage insurance which is compulsory, it is an insurance policy saying that even if the person that takes the mortgage dies, you’ve paid the premium once in a lifetime; if the person dies the insurance company will pay, so there is nothing to be afraid of.

“If you don’t take a mortgage you can build yourself; a lot of people still think if they build themselves it will be cheaper. But that is a lie, because you will be paying for your material which might be stolen on site or your workmen can run away, you spend more than your quotation at times due to market prices changing, and also design might be outdated before you finish building your house. But if you take in a mortgage even if the value of the building increases you are at gain once you’ve taken your mortgage for a particular amount. In a nutshell, a mortgage is a tool for capital appreciation. Mortgage is a must for everybody.”

After her lecture in the heavy downpour, the celebrities were shocked to know the existence of the National Housing Fund and vowed to key into it as soon as possible and to tell their colleagues as well.

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