Nestlé Nigeria PLC hones journalists' skills on nutrition reporting at Pan-Atlantic University

 BY ADA DIKE

Nestlé Nigeria has reaffirmed its commitments towards ensuring healthy living among Nigerians by sponsoring 20 journalists to a five-day programme at the Pan-Atlantic University, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos.

Themed: NESTLÉ BUSINESS JOURNALISM AND NUTRITION TRAINING 2026, the journalists who report Health were selected from different print and electronic media organizations for training which had a two-day online sessions on Monday, October 12, 2026 and Tuesday, October 13, 2026.

 In her opening remarks, the Head of Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability at Nestlé Nigeria, Victoria Uwadoka, emphasised the need for collective action from all stakeholders including the media, corporate organisations and governments to achieve a healthy society.

Speaking on the journalistic skills, she said nutrition is one of the major developmental indices which is why Nestlé Nigeria collaborated with Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) to train the journalists.

"It is not about eating, but about  healthy growth. The training helps us to gain more confidence about our professional line. Training increases capacity, so without structural training, an organisation cannot move up the ladder," she said.

Additionally, Uwadoka said that the programme would help to improve journalists' understanding of nutrition.

"When the right nutrition is considered in preparing what we eat, it makes us healthier, apply the experience on nutrition reporting and understand the role of industry regulators and consumer. It will feed us with story ideas to support literacy, improve the ability to report issues accurately and increase awareness," she added.

Uwadoka retired shortly after the event.   Nestlé Nigeria's Corporate Affairs Manager, Toju Egbebi, has resumed as the company's Head of Corporate Communications, Public Affairs and Sustainability. 

Delivering his keynote lecture as the Administrator of the programme, Dr. Isaac-Ogugua Ezechukwu, said Pan-Atlantic University (PAU) unlocks potentials and builds responsible leaders, noting that the institution pioneers communication education across Nigeria and beyond. 

The Director, Professional Education in P.A.U. identified the institution's main objective as: Nurturing leaders who are creative and enterprising, while it's core principles include seeking to have impact in all individuals, so that they become professionals.

 "We pride ourselves being able to create human beings not Artificial Intelligence (A.I). We build future leaders. Our products are highly mentored. They are supported with internships," said Ezechukwu.

He charged the journalists to have utility value so as to be important to their employers.

Many lecturers taught journalists different topics during the online training. 

While speaking on "Nigeria's Nutrition Landscape," a lecturer and scientist at the College of Medicine, University of Ibadan, Oyo State, Dr. Ibukun Afolami, said the training helped journalists to engage critically in reporting health. He said nutrition is the food system, food environment, economy and development.

Afolami highlighted the double burden of under nutrition and over nutrition and further explained that under nourished children might have stunted growth, cognitively impaired and predisposed to diseases, while over nutrition may cause overweight or obesity which might lead to cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure and stroke.

A journalist and media expert who is also a scholar, Dr. Richard Ikiebe, spoke on, "Money, Market and the Power behind what Nigerians Eat."

 Ikiebe said nutrition stories are both business and people stories as they combined a number of characteristics namely, health, people, business and political stories.

 "Are we really healthy as a result of the food we eat?" He queried. He advised health reporters to become more creative in telling stories by getting the company's information, knowing governments' decision and policies, the market data on food prices, agricultural output, seeking independent evidence and interviewing or observing people.

In the same vein, the Academic Director of the programme, Dr. Nwachukwu Egbunike, handled the topic: "Digital Tools for AI and Responsible Storytelling for Nutrition Journalists."

Explaining the AI, Newsrooms and Journalistic Identity, Egbunike said AI enhances journalists efficiency, but required critical ethical oversight to protect identity and narrative depth. "Accuracy, representation, attribution and context are four framework for ethical anchors journalists must pay attention to,' he stated.

He mentioned ChatGPT and Chatbox as tools that have boosted AI. While Jenni, according to him, is for research. He said P.A.U. uses  Co-pilot.

Egbunike urged each media organization to have an AI policy the same way they have housestyles.

AI, according to him, often strips cultural nuances, so journalists must restore meanings and depth. 

Another lecturer from P.A.U., Prof. Ngozi Okpara, who is versatile in teaching Media and Communication Ethics, handled a topic titled: "Building Trust Through Ethical Reporting." 

She said: "Nutrition Journalism is not simply about food. It sits at the intersection of health, economics, commerce, culture and public policy.

She defined Ethics as a critical and reasoned examination of what we ought to do, how we ought to act and why particular choices can be justified as right, good or responsible.

Okpara emphasized the need for journalists to report nutrition issues, fairly, accurately and with respect for human dignity.

Four ethical framework ethics anchors on she said journalists should pay attention to include: accuracy, representation, attribution and context.

 On Wednesday, October 14, 2026, Journalists were taken round the factory to see how Nestlé Nigeria produces its products.

At the classroom sessions which lasted for two days (Thursday , October 15 and 16), at the School of Media and Communication, Pan-Atlantic University, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos, the organisers provided the journalists with accommodations till Saturday. 

During his lecture with the topic: Nutrition Challenge and Economic Costs in Nigeria, Dr. Stanley Nwani,  said there are economic consequences beyond public health, so, he inferred that nutrition is systemic, not just an act.

In his words: "Nutrition goes beyond food. You must watch the quality of food, water, air, sanitation and hygiene. Nutrition is also the science of how the body uses food. 

Using graphs to buttress his teaching about under nutrition and over nutrition, he said, "Globally, we recorded high rate of disease due to malnutrition and it resulted to heart disease, cancer, stroke, coronary heart disease and diabetes, among others.

"From 2000 to 2020, globally, 

stunting rate is falling, overweight has been stable while in Nigeria, wasting is above eight percent. 40 percent under five years are stunted, eight percent children under five years are wasting in 2024. 11 million children under five years in severe child food poverty while 34.7 million estimated acute food insecurity.

"Under nutrition affect growth and development, diet deprivation means nutrition is limited to many young children. Food insecurity can be caused by conflicts, climate and economic shocks which disrupts access, while economic burdens caused by poor nutrition weakens human and capital formation," Nwani said.

He suggested the kind of questions journalists should ask and mentioned government policy, income and purchasing power; information and knowledge; desires, values, preferences; and physical, emotional and mental health, and decision making autonomy as some of the factors affecting nutrition. 

"Following the Money: Investigating Value Chains, Corporate Accountability in Nigeria," is the topic Dr. Sunday G. John-Ofoleta handled.

The lecturer in P.A.U. identified different investigative angles journalists should explore while writing stories. He used the Nigerian tomato paradox, bread prices crisis, eggs/poultry prices and rice as case studies of how different factors including middlemen and government policies affect the prices of products in the markets. He awakened the journalists' to their responsibilities by investigating and analyzing issues thoroughly not forgetting to use data got from authentic sources like BudgIT, Corporate Annual Reports, Corporate Affairs Commission to background their stories.

Another lecturer, Dr. Wammanda Robinson Usaku, taught the journalists how to use "Video and Photo Tools" in reporting stories.

Also, a senior lecturer at P.A.U., Dr. Margaret Agada-Mba handled, "The Role of Media in Nutrition Education. " She opined that nutrition education targets farmers, parents, caregivers and so on.

The media, according to her, provide a platform for engagement, and information needed informed decision making. "Media are the propagators and reinforcers of desirable social and cultural values," Agada-Mba added..

 At the end of the lectures, Dr. Kizito Alakwe, shared the class into groups and asked each group to extensively discuss the biggest gaps in Nutrition Education, Public Misconceptions observed by journalists, Challenges in accessing experts, Opportunities for Collaboration, and Ethical Issues in Nutrition Reporting and photojournalism.

The journalists were given certificates of participation. Then the facilitators and participants had a team bonding activities at Ziba Resort, Ibeju-Lekki, Lagos on Saturday, October 16, 2026, where the group was treated with a lot of indoor and activities including sumptuous meals and chilled drinks.

Participants were expected to apply and implement what they learned, and also contribute recommendations towards health and nutrition reporting, as well adequate collaboration with other stakeholders to ensure a healthy society and national development.

What you need to know about Judy Austin and Rita Edochie's case in court

The current entertainment news online has to do with two actresses, Judy and Rita who are in court for defamation.

Recall that Judy Austin and a popular actor Yul Edochie had an affair and have three children (two boys and a girl). When they had their first child, Yul's wife, May Yul Edochie said she would not be numbered and filed for a divorce which has been going on for three years in the court of law.

In solidarity with May, Rita who is married to Yul's uncle, Anthony Edochie, stepped in and started threate.ning Judy and using derogatory words on her, hoping that Yul will go back to his first wife. 

Judy decided to seek redress in a court of law. She sued Rita for defamation (N1billion).

The court's first hearing took place in Abuja on September 29, 2026.

According to Ashley Joe, the first matter called was between Judy Austin and Mr. Obasi. 

In her words: "Mr. Obasi was not present in court, which did not sit well with Judy Austin’s lawyer. His lawyer explained that his client was not informed early enough and, because the notice came too close to the court date, he was unable to appear.

"After arguments from both sides, the judge agreed that there was still time within the court process for Mr. Obasi to appear. The matter was therefore adjourned to November 24.

"The next matter was between Judy Austin and Mrs. Rita Edochie.

Judy Austin was called to the witness box as the complainant. She was sworn in before the court, and proceedings began.

"During her testimony, Judy Austin alleged that Mrs. Rita Edochie had bullied or harassed her for a long period, allegedly using different social media accounts to make statements about her.

"The judge asked whether she had evidence to support her claims. Judy Austin said she did and explained that the evidence was contained on a drive which was with her lawyer.

When the issue of the evidence came up, Mrs. Rita Edochie’s lawyer requested time to properly go through and examine the materials before responding to them.

The court subsequently adjourned the matter to November 24."

Adorning herself with different beads and cowries, Rita wore black gown alongside most of her friends and loved ones who stormed the court that day to give her support.

Some of the people who went there with Rita videod Judy inside the court and bullied her by shouting , "Husband snatcher who took her in-law to court." The bu,lied her till she entered a vehicle and left.

From the court premises, Rita went to activist Verydarkblackman's office where a man called Fransciseo Media who people identified as the man that videod Judy Austin inside the court, was hailing Rita as Verydarkblackman's second mother.

Since that day, day,thousands of Nigerians and people from other countries and continents have criti,cized Rita.

Someone known as Big Fish TV wrote: "Judy's privacy and safety were compromised in the courtroom, as she was videoed without consent and harassed by mobs.

"Due to these breaches, Judy has a legitimate reason not to appear in person at future court sittings.

" It is suggested that Judy's lawyer represent her, and she can participate via Zoom.

 "The court is believed to have sufficient evidence of the harassment Judy faced within its premises."

In the same vein, a content creator called Kilaza wrote: "Judy Austin is smarter than Madam Rita "and May Nation — and this is why I believe the court case could eventually work in her favour. 

"There is more to this case than what we see on social media. The courtroom is where evidence, facts and legal arguments matter, not social-media noise. Let’s wait and see how it unfolds. 👀😂#kilaza #nigeria."

Observers advised women who are bully,ing Judy to stop it, saying she is a human being who may fall into depression. 

 *AN OPEN MESSAGE TO THE DEPUTY GOVERNOR OF ABIA STATE*

Your Excellency,

*Ikechukwu Emetu*

We write with deep pain, shock, and growing concern over your recent involvement in the Ogbuebulu land matter between Ndi Ebe Abam and Ndi Oji Ugwo Abam.

Let the truth be clearly stated:

This land matter was litigated from the High Court to the *Supreme Court of Nigeria,* and final judgment was delivered in 2002 in favour of Ndi Ebe Abam. For over 22 (twenty-two years), both communities have lived peacefully.

We were therefore taken aback when seven truckloads of armed military personnel were ordered into our peaceful community in an attempt to enforce a survey plan inconsistent with the Supreme Court-validated judgement. We are not at war. We have never been at war with Ndi Oji Ugwo Abam — and we never will be.

Killing an Ndi Oji Ugwo man is like killing your own blood.

Destroying their property is like destroying what you helped to build.

We share history, marriages, farms, markets, and family ties. Why would we go to war with people who are part of us?

Yet armed men entered our community. Women and elderly people fled in fear into bushes and plantations. In the process of running for safety, some sustained injuries. This is heartbreaking for a community that has done nothing but obey the law and respect constituted authority.

We are further saddened by the emotional blackmail and sympathy narrative being projected and  circulated — portraying Ndi Ebe Abam as land grabbers, forcefully taking over land, as oppressive, as wicked, as heartless — without telling the public that the land in question was conclusively adjudicated by the Supreme Court since 2002 and not a today's event.

Many have believed this one-sided story because they have not heard from us.

*Today, we speak.*

We do not wish to assume that Your Excellency was fully briefed that this matter ceased to be legally disputed over two decades ago. If there has been any misunderstanding, we respectfully urge a review of the Supreme Court judgment and the survey plan upon which it was based.

If peace is the objective, dialogue should come before force.

If justice is the goal, fair hearing must precede action.

The Constitution of Nigeria is clear: Supreme Court judgments are final and binding on all authorities and persons.

We are not enemies of Ndi Oji Ugwo Abam. They remain our brothers and sisters. What hurts us most is being painted publicly as aggressors when we are simply standing on a judgment delivered by the highest court in the land.

Your Excellency, we appeal to your conscience:

Do not allow this matter to escalate.

Do not allow armed presence to replace dialogue.

Do not allow a settled judicial matter to become a source of division.

We reject violence absolutely.

We reject hostility.

We reject propaganda.

We stand for peace.

We stand for truth.

We stand for the rule of law.

Let justice prevail.

Let peace endure in Abam.

Let the Supreme Court judgment stand.

Signed,

*Concerned Citizens of Ndi Ebe Abam*

Arochukwu LGA, Abia State

Ndi Ebe Abam-Abiriba Road needs construction, Governor Otti, help us!

This is Ndi Ebe Abam-Abiriba Road, the shortest road for Abiriba people to ply to and from Umuahia, Bende, Aba and Arochukwu. 

Ndi Ebe Abam is located in Arochukwu Local Government Area, while Abiriba is in Ohafia Local Government Area, both in Abia State.

The road was motor-able in the 1980s, 1990s and early 2000, but has been abandoned for many years by commuters because it is bad.

Many agricultural products such as palm oil, palm kernel, garri, cassava, yams, rice, plantains, okro, pepper, chickens, eggs, vegetable leaves, maize and so on, are produced on a daily basis there and taken to many markets within and outside Abia State. 

These numerous economic activities going on in Ndi Ebe Abam for many centuries attracted large numbers of people from Abia, Ebonyi and Enugu States who settled there and did business. Many others are still doing business and also farming in the quiet town. 

The major challenge people living in Ndi Ebe Abam are facing is the rough, impassable and abandoned road, which has caused a lot of damages to their vehicles and farm products.

I hereby appeal to our leaders to help us construct a good road in Ndi Ebe Abam.

#AbiaStateGovernment

#Dr.AlexOtti

#SenatorOrjiUzorKalu

#HonUchennaOkoroKalu

Grace Amarachi Udeagbala and Favour Chizaram Udeagbala's JSS3 party

Grace Amarachi Udeagbala and Favour Chizaram Udeagbala's JSS3 part on July 25, 2025 at God's Blessings International School, Lagos.

 

 Abia Lawmaker cries out over invasion of Atan Abam by Akwa Ibom community 

BY ADA DIKE 

Information reaching The Daily Monitor has it that the people of Ikot Essien community of Akwa Ibom State attacked Atan Abam Community in Arochukwu Local Government Area, Abia, leading to the disappearance of people and destroying property.

It is on this note that the Majority Leader of the Abia State House Of Assembly, Hon. Okoro Uchenna Kalu, cried out over the invasion of his Constituents.

In a statement signed by the Office Of The Majority Leader, Abia State House Of Assembly, the law maker, in a motion of Urgent Public Importance he presented at the floor of the Abia State House Of Assembly during a plenary yesterday, explained that the incidence which occured on Sunday, July 13, 2025 resulted to severe injuries of many members of the community with others still missing.

The law maker said his community (Atan Abam) is now like a grave yard as most of his people have deserted the community due to threats by the people of Ikot Essien

to wipe out Atan Abam community and destroy their properties.

Explaining further, he said the cause of the invasion by the people of Ikot Essien is over the ownership of 'Akpa Ukwu Land,' which rightfully belongs to Atan Abam Community in Arochukwu LGA.

Hon. Okoro Uchenna prayed the House of Assembly to urge the State Government to as matter of urgency provide Atan Abam Community with adequate security in order to safeguard the lives and properties of the people and to forestall further attacks on them by the neighbouring community from Akwa Ibom State.

The Majority Leader also prayed the house to mandate its Committee on Security and Boundary Matters to liaise with Office of the Deputy Governor of Abia State to investigate and determine the rightful owners of the disputed Akpa Ukwu Land and to restore sustainable peace in the Community.

Other members of the house who lent their voices to the Matter included Hon. Mattias Ume (Isiukwuato), Hon. Isienyi Boniface (Ikwuano), Hon. Kalu Mba Nwoke (Ohafia South) and the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Emmanuel Emeruwa all urged the State Government to do more in the protection of lives and properties of Abians and to hold a very high Powered meeting with the Akwa Ibom State Government with a view to finding a lasting solution to Boundary issues across the State.

The House granted the prayers of Hon. Okoro Uchenna Kalu and urged its Committee on Boundary and Security Matters to take up the matter and liaise with the Deputy Governor who is the State Chairman on Boundary Matters for a lasting solution to the matter.

*Why Ndi Ebe Abam Must Honour Late Elder (Chief) O. O. Awa (OON), DCG NCS, with a National Communal Burial*

As the burial of Late Elder Chief O. O. Awa (OON), DCG NCS, approaches, it is imperative that Ndi Ebe Abam, in its entirety, recognizes this as a national event and accords him the befitting honour he truly deserves. Every Ndi Ebe Abam son and daughter should put aside all engagements to pay their last respects.

I say this with absolute conviction and on solid grounds. Growing up, I knew him as the Okaa-Omea 1 of Ndi Ebe Abam—a man whose presence brought joy to the community. Whenever he was in town and the elders-in-council met, they always returned home in high spirits.

He was a trailblazer—the first in many ways. Every family in Ndi Ebe Abam has, in one way or another, benefited from his generousity. Whether older or younger, our fathers felt his impact. His Age Grade, Obimba Age Grade, greatly benefited from him as well. According to my mother, he contributed over 70% of the funds used to build Obimba Hall—a facility that has served 90% of us for meetings, celebrations, and gatherings. Even when it deteriorated, it still served as a shelter for those in need.

Late Chief Awa was the first of the first of the distinguished Igbo men to attain the rank of Deputy Director (now known as Deputy Comptroller General, DCG) in the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS). His diligence and expertise were instrumental in shaping the HS Codes and Tariff policies still in use today. Though not in the Personnel Department, he leveraged his influence to secure employment for many Ndi Ebe Abam sons and daughters in the NCS. These individuals have built homes where some of us now reside, drive cars that some of us enjoy, and extend goodwill that we continue to benefit from—all thanks to his benevolence.

His contributions to the community extended beyond employment. In 1984, when the Ndi Ebe Bridge collapsed, he was the only Ndi Ebe indigene—alongside Okwara Ezikpe—who ensured its swift reconstruction within a week, a structure that stood strong until 2014. He also single-handedly provided the first electricity transformer that powered Ndi Ebe Abam from 2004 until the second transformer was installed in 2014.

Late Chief Awa was a proud custodian of Ndi Ebe Abam’s culture and traditions. He upheld the reverence of Ekpe Aka masquerade, ensuring its continuity and even hosting dignitaries to witness the grand display. As the first modern National Union Chairman of Ndi Ebe Abam Development Union, he played a pivotal role in drafting the community’s first constitution. In 2007, he demonstrated his deep respect for tradition by crowning Late Eze Ogo Thomas Uba, acting as Onowu when the need arose. His words carried weight, yet he remained humble, always committed to doing good.

Beyond the community, he was a pillar of the Presbyterian Church. His service earned him the esteemed positions of Grand Patron of the Boys Brigade and Patron of Paul house, Lagos Presbyterian Church. It is only fitting that the Presbyterian Church Lagos, takes the lead in laying him to rest as they have said they would.

His impact so resonated within the Nigeria Customs Service, that as a testament to his legacy the National title of Officer of the Order of the Niger (OON) was bestowed on him by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. At the burial dignitaries from the NCS will be in Ndi Ebe Abam to honour him.

With representatives from both the Church and the NCS, his burial will be a grand occasion, worthy of a leader of his stature.

Ndi Ebe Abam! Arise to this moment and ensure that Late Elder Chief O. O. Awa (OON), DC-G NCS, is given the state burial he so richly deserves.

*St.Kingsley Iroegbu Uzoaru*

NEADU National PRO

Writes from Lagos.

Ada Dike wins multiple awards from organizations in Ndi-Ebe Abam

One of Nigeria's versatile journalists, Ms. Ada Dalyn Dike, won many awards from her village, Ndi Ebe Abam in Arochukwu Local Government Area, Abia State in 2024.

 Ndi-Ebe Abam Development Union gave

the Content Editor of Daily Times Nigeria plc  an award in recognition of her outstanding contributions towards the development of her community  on December 30, 2024 during the celebration of Ndi-Ebe Abam Day. Her father, Hon. Chief Dike U. Dike also received a posthumous award that day for his service to the village and humanity.Similarly, the veteran journalist was crowned the "Mother of the Youths" by Ndi-Ebe Abam Youths Association (NEAYA) on December 31, 2024.Earlier, the Women's Guild of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Ndi-Ebe Abam adorned her with a meritorious award as a "'Mission Helper' in appreciation of her immense support and show of love and care to the church and humanity on March 19, 2024." 

Her elder sister, Mrs. Pauline Ikechi, also received an award same day.

In her speech, she thanked the awardees  for appreciating her contributions towards making Ndi-Ebe Abam a better and greater place.

"In all, I thank God for His faithfulness upon my life. 

"I humbly thank our king, His Royal Majesty, Eze Okoko Arunsi (Ochi Oza 111) and the Elders-in-Council for making our village a peaceful and secured place where people can keep valuables outside and still meet them there untouched. People don't fight there, instead, they go to the palace for peaceful resolution. 

"My gratitude also goes to my family, who despite their busy schedules during the Yuletide period surprised me with their presence at the occasions, especially, my elder sister, some of her children, some of my brothers and sisters, my aunt, cousins and members of my age grade (Enyimba)."

She thanked the organizers of the three awards mentioned above, especially, the President-General of Ndi-Ebe Abam Development Union, Mr. Chijioke Awo, his executive committee members, and the President of Ndi-Ebe Abam Youths Association, Mr. Ugorji, Chidinma Dike and the entire village youths, for finding her worthy to be rewarded in remembrance of her little contributions towards making Ndi-Ebe Abam  and the world a better place.  

Dike thanked the leadership of Ndi-Ebe Abam Presbyterian Church and the Women's Guild for finding her worthy to be given the award. She promised to do more works in Christendom, her village, Nigeria and the world.

Fish from my ponds

By ADA DIKE

I started catfish business in March 2021.  The experience has been an interesting one. Contact me if you want quality catfish at affordable price.

Ada Dike's photos

 Ada Dike (Stainless). My philosophy of life: Do to others the way you want people to do to you. Look at some of my photos.

Encomiums, Accolades flow as Ngozi Nwosu celebrates 60th Birthday

By ADA DIKE

One of Nigeria’s creative actors celebrated her 60th birthday recently. Ngozi Nwosu was excited to see her family members, colleagues and friends gathered to celebrate her 60th birthday in Ikeja, Lagos a few days ago. The hall was agog when she entered like a conqueror, dancing Flavour’s Game Changer (The Emperor, The Conqueror, The lion is here…).

Her colleagues shared beautiful encounters they had with her and prayed that God’s blessings, guidance and glory would be with her.The screen diva was critically ill some years ago. She went abroad for surgery and return sound.  She went round and expressed gratitude to her guests and said she will live over 100 years. “I am grateful to God for bringing me this far and I pray for many more years in good health.”Below are some of the encomiums from her colleagues including Taiwo Ajai-Lycett, Joke Sylva, Chinyere Winifred, Agatha Amata and many others.

She is the

symbol of our industry -Taiwo Ajai-Lycett 

“She is a gift to us. Don’t go home without touching her. Her heart is clean. She is genuine. You can’t beat your authentic self. She is a symbol of success, determination, forthrightness, perseverance and courage. She is a lioness. She is a force of nature. When you come in contact with her, you won’t forget her. She is what you see is what you get. She is the symbol of our industry, which is, loving one another. Look after another person, the person will look after you, and that is what I am enjoying now. I am her Mama. Let us affect one another without holding back. I like her openness.  I like her being forthright. May she live long, happy and healthy.”

Ngozi is a phenomenon on stage –Joke Sylva

Joke Sylva said she calls Ngozi, ‘Ayanrunbo’ which means somebody that had been to heaven and back. Her assignment on earth is quite a lot and I am so happy to witness her celebrating 60th birthday.”She added that Ngozi Nwosu and Clarion Chukwurah are some of Igbo actresses that can easily act in Yoruba films. “Ngozi is aristocratic, but when she starts talking you will be shocked. She is a phenomenon on stage. She can switch roles, so effervescent.Till I die,

 Ngozi will still be my friend –Patrick Doyle

Patrick Doyle revealed that Ngozi is his friend. “We were close.  We used to spend some hours in Ngozi’s house.  She was like paddy to me since 30 years ago. Till I die, Ngozi will still be my friend.”Her realness attracts people –Agatha Amata“Ngozi genuinely cares about people,” says film producer and TV presenter, Agatha Amata. She further said that she has a pure heart. She is everyone’s best friend. Her realness attracts people. Everyone is excited in the building when she comes to my office. She is blessed to be the kind of woman she is.” She prayed for Ngozi to fulfill her purpose on earth.

 She is a lioness –Clarion 

ChukwurahActress Clarion Chukwurah described Ngozi as a conqueror. She revealed that she had known her for about 40 years.  She recalled two occasions Ngozi came through to her. One was when she was having issues with her mother. “I went to Ngozi and realized she was struggling to take care of her mother who had cancer. She was working to take care of her mother. She kept working and spending despite the fact that she knew her mother was going to die. Since then, I stopped complaining and learnt to raise my child with determination.“The second time was when the world was against me. The media was bashing me and my baby daddy was doing his own. Ngozi Nwosu kept telling me, ‘Niso nibe (Lets go there).”In 1989or thereabout, we went to Mushin and made noise. I told Ngozi, come let’s go. I became bolder since then. Ngozi is a fighter and also playful.

She is an amazing woman, so down to earth –Carol King

Carol King said the message she had for Ngozi is a very happy birthday to her. She has been through a lot and she is standing tall. She is one of the most amiable people I have worked with. I love her very much. She was with me a few days ago during my birthday. She is an amazing woman, so down to earth. She is real, and I love her for that.

 We have been through thick and thin –Metche Isaac 

Moses Goge Africa producer, Metche Isaac Moses said he and Ngozi Nwosu had come a long way. We have been through thick and thin. I wish your lines to fall in pleasant places. Nneka Moses added that Ngozi is a blessing to Nollywood.

Ngozi is an Agbero –Chinyere Winifred

On a lighter note, a versatile actress, Chinyere Winifred described Ngozi Nwosu as an ‘agbero’. “Ngozi is an Agbero (a funny person). We are just packaging her. She is a lovely lady who says it as it is.”

Other ethnic groups should imbibe yearly August meeting – Oluremi Tinubu …Empowers Imo women

BY ADA DIKE

Wife of the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Senator Oluremi Tinubu (CON), has called on women from other ethnic group to be holding annual August meeting like Igbo women.

She made this call in Owerri, Imo State, on Friday, at the round off of the annual gathering of women at Rear Admiral Ndubuisi Kanu Square, Owerri.

With the theme: “Women Supporting each other, make things happen,”  this year’s turn out was massive. It started with a march-past by women from the 27 local government areas of the state. 

August meeting is a yearly event in which women from different parts of Igboland travel home to discuss issues and commission projects for their communities. It is an age long culltural event which mirros the role of woman in the society. It aims to educate  women, celebrate notable women who have affected their society and staretgise on how their community can move forward.

The event attracted women from different parts of the state and country including five commissioners, one minister, one deputy gubernatorial candidate and over 30 advisers.

The First Lady, who went with Nasarawa State First Lady, Hajiya Silifat Abdullahi A. Sule, said she liked the yearly gathering of Igbo women known as August meeting and advised women in other ethnic group to be having August meeting.

Commenting on the present administration, she said, "I am sure this administration is doing everything possible to ensure a better life for every Nigerian. This is one of the reasons we are here today. So, we are assuring you of federal government's plan in making Nigeria a more prosperous nation, where all of us and generations yet unborn will be proud to belong. Today, as we gathered to commemorate and celebrate achievement of women at this annual women August meeting, while we celebrate the accomplishment of younger generation, which are undoubtable inspiring, let us not forget the invaluable role elderly women do share in our community and our future. The elderly women have been the backbone of our society, community, family and state. We must take cognizance of the struggle of our women which has made it possible for the progress we are enjoying today. It is our collective duty to ensure that women are heard, their needs are met and their legacies are preserved, the wisdom they possess, the stories they tell and their guidance are pillars of our society. 

"The support we are advocating is what we have come  to present today through the renewed hope initiative, social investment agenda by celebrating the elderly at this year’s event. We join our voices with that of Her Excellency, Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma and indeed, that of His Excellency, Dr. Hope Uzodimma against every form sexual and domestic violence, fight against trafficking of persons, drug abuse and other gender-based violence in the society.

"Empowering women is not just a slogan, for us, it is a renewed hope initiative and a commitment towards the better of life for families in every state of the federation. We will support women and uplift their status and ensure empowerment extends to women of all ages, from young girls who dream of their future to the elderly who have shared her past. "These are the hallmarks of the renewed hope initiative, it is an initiative focused on women and families with its scope in Agriculture, education, health, economic empowerment and social investment. I assure you all that the initiative will soon be back to Imo State to give our modest contribution in the area of agriculture," she emphasised.

Tinubu said she discussed with Mrs. Uzodinma and she changed her mind in the car when they were driving together.

 "She picked empowerment, but when I began to tell her about the scope which she also mentioned today -sharing seedlings to the farmers, she then understood what we want to do for farmers, because they are the only ones that need economic empowerment, and we know the Igbo always say, 'Ego amaka,' which means 'money is good', I believe that you are all happy with agriculture, that is what we are going to use to empower all the people in the federation."

She implored them to re-elect Uzodimma as the governor of Imo State. “Let us not give doubt in the transformative power women hold. I call on you all great women from Imo State to come out en masse and vote overwhelmingly for Uzodimma. He deserves second term in order to complete the good works he has started, and I believe he has the backing of this present administration. With his re-election, his dream and aspiration for Imo State will be actualized. By the grace of God, Imo State will be there for a greater lease of life."

The special guest of honour urged them to be united and re-elect him so that he would continue to champion gender equity and parity, so that he would continue to pursue the call for a better life of the people.

The Senator empowered women with foodstuffs and money, among others things.

In her welcome address with a slogan, "Umu Nwanyi na akwado ibe ha (Women support themselves)," Chief Barr. Mrs. Chioma Uzodimma expressed deepest appreciation to Senator Tinubu and other notable dignitaries including wife of Abia State Governor, Mrs. Oti.

The founder of Goodhope Flourish Foundation reassured women that her husband's administration would continue to ensure that women are well represented and supported.

She urged women to continue to be peaceful.

in the same vein, the executive Governor of Imo State, His Excellency, Dr. Hope Uzodimma, said he didn’t have much to say because his wife had said many salient points including development of the state and women empowerment. Thanked Senator Tinubu and other guests who graced the occasion. 

 

AC Milan Signs Super Eagle's Samuel Chukwueze

 AC Milan has confirmed signing of Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze on deal until 2028.

The 24-year-old signed a five-year deal with the Serie A club and will wear the number 21.

Chukwueze, who had one year left on his Villarreal contract, wanted to leave the Spanish side to secure a move elsewhere.

Milan announced the signing in a statement released on their website on Thursday.

“AC Milan is delighted to announce the signing of Samuel Chimerenka Chukwueze from Villarreal CF. The Nigerian forward has signed for the Rossoneri until 30 June 2028,” Milan stated.

“Born in Umuahia (Nigeria) on 22 May 1999, Samuel came through the Diamond Football Academy Youth Sector before moving to Villarreal in 2017.

“With the Spanish club’s B team, he played 20 games and scored four goals before making his debut with the senior team in September 2018, going on to feature 207 times, scoring 37 goals, and winning 1 Europa League.

“He has been capped 28 times for Nigeria and scored four goals.

“Samuel Chukwueze has chosen the number 21 jersey.”

During his time at Villarreal, Chukwueze helped the LaLiga side win the UEFA Europa League title in 2020/21 season.

I Feel Your Pains, Expect Prosperity Soon, President Tinubu Tells Nigerians

Pesident Bola Tinubu on Thursday called for the patience and understanding of Nigerians, particularly the youths, assuring them that the hardships of the moment will eventually give way for a more prosperous, equitable and inclusive economy.

He gave the assurance on Thursday at the State House while receiving All Progressives Congress (APC) National Youth Leaders from across the 36 States of the federation and Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.

A statement issued by Dele Alake, Special Adviser to the President (Special Duties, Communications and Strategy) said the President told the youths that his administration would include them in governance, and decision-making processes, adding that “no decision would be too difficult for his administration to take for the prosperity and unity of the nation.’’

The statement quoted President Tinubu as saying: “I make my pledge to the country that no decision will be difficult for this administration to take for the prosperity and unity of this country. Economic reforms could be slow. Be patient a little more.”

“I can assure you that I understand the pains you are going through. It is not easy to get out the monster of over 40 years called fuel subsidy,” he added.

The President noted that his administration would do everything necessary to widen the net in order to accommodate more women and youths.

According to him, this will be done, among others, by ‘liaising with our lending institutions to give micro loans at a very low interest rate’ for economic activities among the citizens.

Earlier in his remarks, the APC National Youth Leader, Hon. Abdullahi Dayo Israel, told the President that, as representatives of all the youth organs of the party, they had come to congratulate him on the party’s victory at the polls and seek inclusion in appointments into the dissolved boards and agencies of government.

Source: Tribune