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Last Year Single: A Drifted Drama Entwined in Character Dynamics

With a 13-episode romcom, Last Year Single delves into the world of romance, career and lifestyles using three besties as heroines.

Last Year Single by Omoni Oboli
Last Year Single by Omoni Oboli

Despite being an interesting movie, Last Year Single features a drift in the drama and character dynamics among the main characters; Belinda, Tamara, Afua and Kharibi Fubara.

They are three friends with a common trait of self-discovery as they try to balance their career and love lives. Well their notion about love is shaped by their ideology.

For instance, Belinda, Tamara and Afua are eager to get some rings on their fingers because of societal pressure.

The aesthetics makes the storyline intriguing with commentaries on relationships, lifestyle dynamics, self-discovery, and societal expectations.

 

PLOT

Last Year Single was released on September 6, on Netflix. Karibi Fubara featured in this series, yet he passed away in 2021. This means this film was filmed in 2020 thereabouts.

Which brings me to the question; will the storyline and themes explored not be outdated with the way Nollywood has evolved in the last 4 years?.

The themes depicts Love and Career competing with each other. The storyline is perfect but the themes are off standard, very common in many romcoms. This added to the drifts in the movie.

Well the storyline features character dynamics which is acceptable. I’m glad that towards the ending of the movie, the three main characters reviewed their criteria for choosing men.

But why repitition? The three main characters have to revisit previous discussions. I understand that dialogues and flashbacks are used for effective narrative, but adding subsequent repititions  might make the audience bored.

Also the pacing of scenes is slow, probably the producer did this to drag the movie for a longer watching time.

 

THEMES

I have reservations with the themes of this series. This is because Love and Career have been explored a couple of times in movies, especially romcoms.

Joy Isi Bewaji could have given the audience another dimension to the storyline outside the two main themes highlighted above. I have watched Love competing with Career countless times on the big screen.

It would have been better if themes like *Family Bond or *Sibling Fight were objectified. But thanks to the aesthetics in the movie, they cheered me up to watch till the end.

 

CHARACTERIZATION

Belinda (Omoni Oboli)

Belinda had her love life going until her man broke her heart. This made her to have resentment and bitterness towards men.

Aside relationship, Belinda is a successful businesswoman. Belinda played the main character and I find her character weird.

Her desire to get married at all cost was blown out of proportion. She was desperate to get a ring which made her take decisions on impulse. She regretted this anyway.

 

Tamara (Toni Tones)

Tamara has a long term relationship of 7 years, from the storyline she was trying to fit into the picture-perfect African wife.

Why on Earth will an ambitious lady be in a relationship of 7 years while her fiance enjoys frolicking with other ladies!

Shew was in a toxic relationship and her character is relatable to a regular Nigerian lady. She was stuck between self-love and fantasy.

Tamara built her whole world around her man which got me confused like all she came to achieve in this world is getting married and have children. She eventually lost it when Bayo broke her heart.

She did a perfect job overplaying the role with too much seriousness. Well I don’t see Toni Tones in that capacity in reality.

I think Omoni/JIB were trying to tell us there are some successful ladies whose validation is tied to marriage. If I’m being true it still happens.

Lest I forget, Tamara dress sense was poor at the onset, the wig and clothes she rocks was ancient. Afua helped her fashion sense with some advice. I guess the producer is using this to pass a message.

 

Afua (Bimbo Ademoye)

I noticed that Bimbo Ademoye keyed into the Afua character. Imagine an architect getting a career switch; blogging which is entirely unrelated to her previous career.

Afua was resilient to become a successful blogger, get connections and as well get a romance mate among male celebrities. Probably her decision to switch to blogging was to get a celebrity man.

This is because her career switch in Last Year Single is indifferent. I mean she was desperate to be among the top bloggers. She is the typical blogger who would publish anything including lies just to get engagements on her blog. That sounds desperate.

In addition, Afua reeled some humor into the scenes. While watching each scene I always look forward to another scene where Afua will come on screen with her comic character.

 

Bayo (Karibi Fubara)

Bayo, played by Karibi Fubara, featured character dynamics in his relationship with Tamara.

Seeing him and Tamara having chemistry got me confused because their character contradicts each other and they always have different sides to everything.

Fubara did a good job with his role, but sadly he is no longer here. That’s why at the end of each series you see: “Rest in Peace Karibi Fubara.

 

OTHER CASTS

Supporting characters also brought their artistic performances to the scene. The likes of Tayo Arimoro (James), Mawuli Gavor (Victor), Chy Nwakanma (Gloria), improved the aesthetics of the film.

 

OVERALL THOUGHT

Last Year Single has a wonderful plot but with drifts in the narratives and the producer’s effort in relating the scenes is slow-paced.

I must say that Last Year Single is restricted to a particular audience. The audience who will find it appealing are those who are fans of Love and Career competing in movies.

These concepts are not new, but I hail the producer for ensuring that the common narrative is told in an unusual direction. With this I rate the movie 8/10.

The movie world is evolving, producers and writers are upping their game but they should do better by giving the audience uncommon narratives.

The Africa Business Coalition for Health embraces new role as new secretariat for the Corporate Alliance against Malaria in Africa

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The Africa Business Coalition for Health embraces new role as new secretariat for the Corporate Alliance against Malaria in Africa

The Africa Business Coalition for Health embraces new role as new secretariat for the Corporate Alliance against Malaria in AfricaNM Partners

The African Business Coalition for Health (ABCHealth) is delighted to announce its appointment as the new Secretariat for the Corporate Alliance on Malaria in Africa (CAMA).

 

This development marks a pivotal moment in our journey towards enhancing health systems across the continent, as we take on stewardship of CAMA from the Global Business Coalition for Health (GBCHealth) in New York.

 

CAMA focuses on mobilizing the private sector to drive impactful partnerships for malaria control and elimination in workplaces and communities.

 

It creates opportunities for the private sector to engage with peers and with leaders from governments, NGOs, academia, and other sectors to scale impact in the fight against malaria. As the new Secretariat for CAMA, ABCHealth will build on the successes achieved over the past 17 years, providing value to its members in relevance and scaled impact in the fight against malaria.

 

This appointment is a key milestone in GBCHealth’s plan to transition its work to being fully African led. Placing the leadership and management of CAMA within ABCHealth is a testament to its Theory of Change in Cultivating Partnerships and Mobilizing Private Sector resources to improve healthcare in Africa and change the way it works. ABCHealth works closely with Africa’s private sector leaders as well as global organizations to help improve the health and well-being of all Africans.

 

This new charge to lead CAMA and its esteemed member organizations, as well as the wider Malaria ecosystem to collaboratively control and eventually eliminate malaria across the continent is a responsibility ABCHealth is proud to take on.

 

Global business leader, Mr. Aigboje Aig-Imoukhuede, Founder & Chairman of the Aig-Imoukhuede Foundation & Chairman of ABCHealth amongst other philanthropic roles, stated: “The current challenges facing Africa’s healthcare and its disproportionate disease burden reinforces the strong business case for private sector engagement in health. The transition of CAMA to ABCHealth is a further opportunity for partners in both public and private sectors to collaborate towards improved health outcomes across Africa.”

 

Zouera Youssoufou, CEO of Aliko Dangote Foundation and ABCHealth Board Director expressed her delight about the move; “Our Principal and ABCHealth Co-Founder, Alhaji Aliko Dangote, who is also the Chair of the End Malaria Council in Nigeria, looks forward to seeing a scaling up of the impact of CAMA in Africa now that the organization will be fully led by Africans.”

 

Mories Atoki (Dr.), CEO of ABCHealth said, “Our Coalition is fully committed to moving CAMA further. We recognize the impact of members’ activities, and look forward to working with all of them as well as with new members in the coming year and beyond. We recognize the unwavering support of CAMA’s Leadership Council (Access Bank, Chevron, Aliko Dangote Foundation, and ExxonMobil) during this transition and their continued commitment to the Alliance’s goal of a Malaria-free Africa.”

 

Lesley-Anne Long, erstwhile President & Chief Executive Officer of GBCHealth,said; “CAMA has been one of GBCHealth’s flagship programs for more than 15 years and we are delighted that its impactful work will continue through ABCHealth”.

Mega filling station owners offer to deliver fuel to 774 LGs at cheaper rate

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The Association of Mega Filling Station Owners of Nigeria has called for a stronger partnership between the association and the management of the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited.

 

The Association said it could transport fuel to the 774 local government headquarters in the country at a cheaper rate to make the product available to the people at the grassroots level.

 

This was contained in a statement made available to journalists in Kaduna on Monday by the President of AMFSON, Davidson Ukatta, following a meeting with members of the association in Abuja.

 

He said filling stations owned by his members could be found in all the 774 local councils of the country, making it easy for the public to access petroleum products at a cheaper rate.

 

According to the statement, there is a need for the management of NNPC and other critical stakeholders in the downstream sector of the petroleum industry to see AMFSON not only as business partners but as partners in progress in the quest to deliver products to Nigerians at cheaper and affordable rates.

 

The statement partly read, “AMFSON is well structured to help make petroleum products available to Nigerians, our members are located across the 774 local councils in the 36 states of the Federation and the federal capital territory.

 

“While NNPC Retail filling stations are politically located in the capitals of the 36 states of the Federation and Abuja, AMFSON outlets can be found in multiple numbers in the 774 local councils of the country.

 

“The locations of AMFSON member outlets make it possible for Nigerians to readily access petroleum products at a cheaper rate nationwide.

 

“Therefore there is the need for all critical stakeholders to rally around the association in its bid to make petroleum products available across the country.

 

“There is also the need for NNPC Limited to deepen its relationship with AMFSON members as part of strategies to make cheaper petroleum products available to the public.”

 

According to the statement, AMFSON is the only group that can help NNPCL drive the policy behind the establishment of NNPC Retail Limited.

 

The statement further read, “Our members are well equipped to drive the policy behind the setting up of NNPC Limited which is aimed at making petroleum products available to Nigerians at an affordable rate.

 

“Our filling stations can be found in all the 774 local councils of the country, making it easy for the public to access petroleum products at a cheaper rate.

 

“We are happy at the opening of the national secretariat of the association because the new secretariat would further create a more enabling environment to meet the needs of its members.

 

“Until now, the national secretariat of AMFSON was located in Gwagwalada, one of the far-flung outskirts of Abuja. The relocating of the national secretariat to the Abuja city centre marks a new chapter in the annals of the association.”

Top 10 countries in Africa where workers earn highest salaries

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There are several countries in Africa where workers, particularly salaried employees, are well paid.

 

Here’s a look at the top 10 African countries where workers earn the best salaries, as a result of the economic conditions and high demand for skilled labour.

 

Morocco

The first on this list is Morocco, with an average salary of $2,031 due to its diversified economy, strong sectors like tourism, textiles, and mining, and strategic investments in infrastructure. The country got its independence in 1956 and is also focused on creating a favourable environment for foreign investments, which boosts wages in key industries

 

South Africa

South Africa is the next on our list, with an average salary of $2,026 due to its well-developed financial sector, mining, and manufacturing industries. The country got its independence in 1910 and benefits from being one of the most industrialized countries.

 

Tunisia

Tunisia has one of Africa’s best healthcare, education, and manufacturing sectors and boosts an average salary of $1,348. It gained its independence in 1956, and its proximity to Europe and efforts in technology and tourism further drive higher wages.

 

Kenya

Kenya’s growing economy, driven by sectors like agriculture, telecommunications, and fintech, has an average salary of $1,291. Its capital, Nairobi is a major tech hub. Kenya got its independence in 1963.

 

Algeria

Algeria’s economy is largely based on oil and gas exports and it generates high revenue. The country got its independence in 1962 and has an average salary of $1,273.

 

Namibia

Namibia got its independence in 1990 and has an average salary of $1,168, The country has a low population and benefits from its mining (particularly diamonds and uranium) and agriculture sectors.

 

Botswana

Botswana’s diamond mining industry, stable political environment, and efforts in improving its education and healthcare systems are key contributors to its economy and salary structure. The country got its independence in 1966 and has an average salary of $1,000.

 

Nigeria

Nigeria is currently Africa’s largest oil and gas producer with an average salary of $814. The country gained independence in 1960. Also, its banking and telecommunications industries also offer competitive salaries to skilled professionals.

 

Ghana

Ghana comes next after Nigeria with an average salary of $748. The country gained its independence in 1957 and is known for its growing oil industry, mining (especially gold), and cocoa exports. Ghana’s push for industrialization and its tech scene also promise further salary growth.

 

Uganda

Uganda has an average salary of $738 driven by its growing services and agricultural sectors. Uganda got its independence in 1962 and is also making an effort to expand its energy and industrial sector. Though these are averages, bear in mind that they may not accurately reflect economic disparities within each nation.

 

This article was culled from Business Insider Africa

ExxonMobil’s $1.28 billion asset sale to Seplat to receive ministerial approval in days — Tinubu  

The President of Nigeria, Bola Tinubu, has said the $1.28 divestment deal between ExxonMobil and Seplat Energy will receive ministerial approval in a matter of days.

 

Tinubu made this disclosure during his Independence Day address to Nigerians on Tuesday, at the State House in Abuja.

 

The President announced that the regulatory body, NUPRC, has approved the deal involving ExxonMobil’s sale of its onshore assets to Seplat Energy.

 

Tinubu said the ministerial approval is in line with the Petroleum Industry Act (PIA) in order to complete the divestment deal between the two oil majors.

 

“Fellow compatriots, our administration is committed to free enterprise, free entry, and free exit in investments while maintaining the sanctity and efficacy of our regulatory processes.

 

“This principle guides the divestment transactions in our upstream petroleum sector, where we are committed to changing the fortune positively.

 

“As such, the ExxonMobil Seplat divestment will receive ministerial approval in a matter of days, having been concluded by the regulator, NUPRC, in line with the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA. This was done in the same manner as other qualified divestments approved in the sector,” Tinubu said.

 

Backstory

On February 25 2022, Seplat Energy Plc disclosed its plan to purchase all shares of Mobil Producing Nigeria Unlimited from Exxon Mobil Corporation, Delaware for $1.28 billion.

 

The deal Involved taking over ExxonMobil Nigeria’s offshore shallow water operations.

 

However, NNPC decided to invoke its Right of First Refusal (RFR) regarding the sale of these assets.

 

This RFR is specified in the Joint Operating Agreement (JOA) of the Joint Venture (JV), which outlines NNPC’s stance on Seplat Energy Plc’s intended purchase of the shares.

 

In May 2022, the federal government declined to approve the transaction, citing overriding national interest among other reasons for its decision.

 

In addition, on July 6, 2022, a judge in Abuja issued an “order of interim injunction” that prohibits Exxon from finalizing any divestment in a subsidiary that holds four licenses in Nigeria.

 

Meanwhile, in July 2024, NNPC withdrew the lawsuit and approved that the sale be finalized according to the PIA.

 

What you should know

Moreover, ExxonMobil is not the only international oil company (IOC) deciding to move offshore and employing a divestment strategy to offload its stakes in the onshore segment of the oil and gas sector.

 

In January, oil major, Shell Plc, reached an agreement to sell its Nigerian onshore oil assets to a local consortium for over $1.3 billion, pending government approval.

 

In addition to the initial sum, Shell anticipates receiving extra payments of up to $1.1 billion. The purchasing consortium, named Renaissance, comprises ND Western, Aradel Energy, First E&P, Waltersmith, and Petrolin.

 

Similarly, TotalEnergies stated plans to offload its minority stake in a significant Nigerian onshore oil joint venture following Shell’s divestment announcement.

 

TEXT OF NATIONAL BROADCAST BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU ON THE 64TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA OCTOBER 1, 2024  

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1st October, 2024

 

TEXT OF NATIONAL BROADCAST BY PRESIDENT BOLA AHMED TINUBU ON THE 64TH INDEPENDENCE ANNIVERSARY OF THE FEDERAL REPUBLIC OF NIGERIA OCTOBER 1, 2024

Fellow Nigerians, as I address you today, I am deeply aware of the struggles many of you face in these challenging times. Our administration knows that many of you struggle with rising living costs and the search for meaningful employment. I want to assure you that your voices are heard.

 

As your President, I assure you that we are committed to finding sustainable solutions to alleviate the suffering of our citizens. Once again, I plead for your patience as the reforms we are implementing show positive signs, and we are beginning to see light at the end of the tunnel.

 

Exactly 64 years ago, our founding fathers chose democracy as a form of government and launched the dream of a great country that would lead the rest of Africa out of poverty, ignorance, and underdevelopment, a beacon of hope to the rest of Africa and the world.

 

Over six decades later, we can look back, and Nigerians worldwide can see how well we have succeeded in realising the lofty dreams of our founding fathers.

 

The world is witnessing and benefiting from the can-do spirit of the Nigerian people, our massive intellectual capacity, and our enterprise and industry in all vocations, from arts to science, technology to infrastructure. The dreams that our founding fathers envisaged are still a work in progress. Every day, we put our hands on the plough, determined to do a better job of it.

 

While it is tempting to focus on what has been left undone and where we have stumbled as a nation, we must never lose sight of how far we have come in forging and holding our country together.

 

Since independence, our nation has survived many crises and upheavals that led to the dissolution and disintegration of many other nations worldwide. Six years after independence, our country descended into a political crisis that led to a bitter and avoidable civil war. Since returning from the brink of that darkest moment, we have learned to embrace our diversity and manage our differences better as we continue to work towards engendering a more perfect union.

 

Despite the many challenges that buffeted our country, we remain a strong, united, and viable sovereign nation.

 

Dear compatriots, our independence anniversary gives us another chance to reflect on how far we have gone in our journey to nation-building and to renew our commitment to building a better nation that will serve present and future generations of Nigerians.

 

While we celebrate the progress we have made as a people in the last sixty-four years, we must also recognise some of our missed opportunities and mistakes of the past. If we are to become one of the greatest nations on earth, as God has destined us to be, our mistakes must not be allowed to follow us into the future.

 

My administration took over the leadership of our country 16 months ago at a critical juncture. The economy faced many headwinds, and our physical security was highly impaired. We found ourselves at a dizzying crossroads, where we must choose between two paths: reform for progress and prosperity or carry on business-as-usual and collapse. We decided to reform our political economy and defence architecture.

 

On the security front, I am happy to announce to you, my compatriots, that our administration is winning the war on terror and banditry. Our target is to eliminate all the threats of Boko Haram, banditry, kidnapping for ransom, and the scourge of all forms of violent extremism. Within one year, our government has eliminated Boko Haram and bandit commanders faster than ever. As of the last count, over 300 Boko Haram and bandit commanders have been eliminated by our gallant troops in the Northeast, Northwest, and some other parts of the country.

 

We have restored peace to hundreds of communities in the North, and thousands of our people have been able to return home. It is an unfinished business, which our security agencies are committed to ending as quickly as possible. As soon as we can restore peace to many communities in the troubled parts of the North, our farmers can return to their farms. We expect to see a leap in food production and a downward spiral in food costs. I promise you, we shall not falter on this.

 

Our government has been responding to the recent natural disasters, particularly the flooding in parts of the country. After Vice President Kashim Shettima visited Maiduguri, I also visited to assure our people that this federal government will always stand with our people in their times of trouble. At the last meeting of the Federal Executive Council, we approved a Disaster Relief Fund to mobilise private and public sector funds to help us respond faster to emergencies.

 

Our government has also ordered integrity tests of all our dams in the country to avert future disasters.

 

The economy is undergoing the necessary reforms and retooling to serve us better and more sustainably. If we do not correct the fiscal misalignments that led to the current economic downturn, our country will face an uncertain future and the peril of unimaginable consequences.

 

Thanks to the reforms, our country attracted foreign direct investments worth more than $30 billion in the last year.

 

Fellow compatriots, our administration is committed to free enterprise, free entry, and free exit in investments while maintaining the sanctity and efficacy of our regulatory processes. This principle guides the divestment transactions in our upstream petroleum sector, where we are committed to changing the fortune positively. As such, the ExxonMobil Seplat divestment will receive ministerial approval in a matter of days, having been concluded by the regulator, NUPRC, in line with the Petroleum Industry Act, PIA. This was done in the same manner as other qualified divestments approved in the sector.

 

The move will create vibrancy and increase oil and gas production, positively impacting our economy.

 

The more disciplined approach adopted by the Central Bank to monetary policy management has ensured stability and predictability in our foreign exchange market. We inherited a reserve of over $33 billion 16 months ago. Since then, we have paid back the inherited forex backlog of $7 billion. We have cleared the ways and means debt of over N30 trillion. We have reduced the debt service ratio from 97 per cent to 68 per cent. Despite all these, we have managed to keep our foreign reserve at $37 billion. We continue to meet all our obligations and pay our bills.

 

We are moving ahead with our fiscal policy reforms. To stimulate our productive capacity and create more jobs and prosperity, the Federal Executive Council approved the Economic Stabilisation Bills, which will now be transmitted to the National Assembly. These transformative bills will make our business environment more friendly, stimulate investment and reduce the tax burden on businesses and workers once they are passed into law.

 

As part of our efforts to re-engineer our political economy, we are resolute in our determination to implement the Supreme Court judgment on the financial autonomy of local governments.

 

The central concern of our people today is the high cost of living, especially food costs. This concern is shared by many around the globe as prices and the cost of living continue to rise worldwide.

 

My fellow Nigerians, be assured that we are implementing many measures to reduce the cost of living here at home.

 

I commend the Governors particularly, in Kebbi, Niger, Jigawa, Kwara, Nasarawa, and the Southwest Governors that have embraced our agricultural production programme. I urge other states to join the Federal Government in investing in mechanised farming. We are playing our part by supplying fertilizer and making tractors and other farm equipment available. Last week, the Federal Executive Council approved establishing a local assembly plant for 2000 John Deere tractors, combine harvesters, disc riders, bottom ploughs and other farm equipment. The plant has a completion time of six months.

 

Our energy transition programme is on course. We are expanding the adoption of the Presidential Initiative on Compressed Natural Gas for mass transit with private sector players. The Federal Government is ready to assist the thirty-six States and FCT in acquiring CNG buses for cheaper public transportation.

 

Fellow Nigerians, while we are working to stabilise the economy and secure the country, we also seek to foster national unity and build social harmony and cohesion. Our economy can only thrive when there is peace.

 

As we work to overcome the challenges of the day, we remain mindful of the next generation as we seek to galvanize their creative energy towards a better future. We lead today with the future we wish to bequeath to our children in focus, recognizing that we cannot design a future that belongs to them without making them its architects.

 

Considering this, I am pleased to announce the gathering of a National Youth Conference. This conference will be a platform to address the diverse challenges and opportunities confronting our young people, who constitute more than 60 per cent of our population. It will provoke meaningful dialogue and empower our young people to participate actively in nation-building. By ensuring that their voices are heard in shaping the policies that impact their lives, we are creating a pathway for a brighter tomorrow.

 

The 30-day Confab will unite young people nationwide to collaboratively develop solutions to issues such as education, employment, innovation, security, and social justice. The modalities of this Confab and selection of delegates will be designed in close consultation with our young people through their representatives. Through this confab, it will be our job as leaders to ensure that their aspirations are at the heart of the conference’s deliberations. The government will thoroughly consider and implement the recommendations and outcomes from this forum as we remain resolute in our mission to build a more inclusive, prosperous, and united Nigeria.

 

Our government is implementing several other youth-centric programmes to give our young people an advantage in the rapidly changing world. We are implementing, amongst others, the 3 million Technical Talents programme (3MTT) of the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy, aimed at building Nigeria’s technical talent backbone.

 

We have also enthusiastically implemented the Nigerian Education Loan Fund (NELFUND), which provides cheap loans to our students to pursue their tertiary educational dreams. In addition, later this month, we shall launch The Renewed Hope Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP). It is conceived as a comprehensive suite of interventions at job creation by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment that is aimed at facilitating the creation of 2.5 million jobs, directly and indirectly, on an annual incremental basis whilst simultaneously ensuring the welfare and safety of workers across the country.

 

As is the tradition, the government will soon announce all the beneficiaries of our national honours for 2024.

 

The Senate President and the Chief Justice of the Federation have been conferred with the honour of the Grand Commander of the Order of the Niger (GCON). The deputy Senate President and Speaker of the House of Representatives have the honour of Commander of the Order of the Federal Republic (CFR), while the deputy speaker of the House has been awarded Commander of the Order of Niger (CON) .

 

Fellow Nigerians, better days are ahead of us. The challenges of the moment must always make us believe in ourselves. We are Nigerians—resilient and tenacious. We always prevail and rise above our circumstances.

 

I urge you to believe in our nation’s promise. The road ahead may be challenging, but we will forge a path toward a brighter future with your support. Together, we will cultivate a Nigeria that reflects the aspirations of all its citizens, a nation that resonates with pride, dignity, and shared success.

 

As agents of change, we can shape our destiny and build a brighter future by ourselves, for ourselves and for future generations.

 

Please join our administration in this journey towards a brighter future. Let us work together to build a greater Nigeria where every citizen can access opportunities and every child can grow up with hope and promise.

 

May God continue to bless our nation and keep members of our armed forces safe.

 

Happy Independence anniversary, my fellow Nigerians!

 

-President Bola Ahmed Tinubu

Movie Review: Lísàbí, A Cinematic Masterpiece Reviving Yoruba Pride

With the release of Lísàbí, I’m now totally convinced about the revolution happening in the Yorùbá movie industry. It’s a new dawn.

There is a reawakening. Our actors, actresses, producers, directors, and all the major players in the Yorùbá movie industry have rediscovered the magic they had in the 1990s and early 2000s, when they produced epic films like Ògbórí Ẹlẹ́mọ̀ṣọ́, Baṣọ̀run Gáà, Àfònjá, Efúnsetán Aníwúrà, and others.

 

From Ògúndábède to Aníkúlápo, Jagun Jagun to Àjàkájù, Àyìnlá to Funmilayo Ransome -Kuti, House of Ga’à to Lísàbí, these movies are deeply rooted in our beautiful culture, and the execution has been second to none. All those involved have demonstrated creative excellence at its peak.

 

Lísàbí is another masterpiece that will dominate the visual space for a while, emphasizing that Yorùbá culture is bigger than Africa.

 

Despite being a beautifully told story about the Ẹ̀gbá resistance against tyranny and their defiance of a world power, the film didn’t downplay the influence of the Old Ọ̀yọ́ Empire, with its seat of power in Ọ̀yọ́-Ilé and the Aláàfin, an unquestionable entity bearing the cognomen “Ikú, Bábà, Yèyé.”

 

The trio phrase “Ikú, Bábà, Yèyé”—translates as “The Death, The Paternal, and The Maternal”—might not resonate with us in this modern democratic era, but in ancient Yorùbá days, it held immense significance. I’ll delve into how the Aláàfin earned that title in another article.

 

First, the grandeur displayed in the movie’s setting is highly commendable. The use of artifacts, costumes, and folksongs was deliberate and intentional, effectively representing both the Ẹ̀gbás and the Ọ̀yọ́s.

The film also excellently depicted the politics at play in Yorùbá courts at the time. It vividly showed that power is taken, not given—a recurring theme in Yorùbá history. Sàngódèyí did not wait around to become Olórí Ìlàrí. He seized his moment when the Olú Ọlọ́dàn challenged the powers of Ọlọ́yọ́.

 

Moreover, the movie did a great job showcasing how traditional weddings were conducted in Yorùbáland. This aspect is gradually fading due to civilization, and films should not only entertain but educate.

 

Similarly, the concept of Àáro was well portrayed. Our ancestors organized themselves into a mutual aid society called Ẹgbẹ́ Àáro (Àáro Society) for more efficient farming—a tradition that reflects the collective strength and unity of the Yorùbá people.

 

However, despite the film’s strong points, I have a few concerns about certain portrayals. Historical movies should aim to avoid confusing or complicating our history as a people. A fellow Yorùbá culture enthusiast pointed out how movies about the Roman Empire often serve as a way of learning Roman history. We are fortunate to have this revolution that translates Yorùbá histories into film, but we must get it right to avoid misinforming the world about our identity.

 

I was impressed that the filmmakers researched enough to know that the Old Ọ̀yọ́ Empire had extensive trade relations with Portugal. In 1471, it was officially recorded that Portugal contacted the Aláàfin, and they maintained a cordial relationship for centuries. In fact, a great historian, Olóyè Lájì Abbas, the Àarẹ Ònpìtàn of Ìbàdàn, insists that a Portuguese man knew Aláàfin Sàngó personally and wrote about his encounter with the powerful, posthumously deified emperor. Please note that Aláàfin Sàngó Tẹ̀llà-Òkò, an Òrìsà (deity) and third Aláàfin of Ọ̀yọ́, is different from Sàngó Ayílẹ́gbẹ̀ẹ́-Ọ̀run, the Irúnmọlẹ̀ (divinity).

 

Historically, it’s true that the Ọ̀yọ́ Empire had strong ties with Portugal long before Great Britain arrived, as shown in the movie. However, my issue is that the Portuguese characters were communicating in English rather than Portuguese, the official language of Portugal.

 

Lísàbí was not just any man; he was a giant, both in stature and in spirit. The movie didn’t focus on an important aspect, which is that although Lísàbí lived in Igbehin, his roots are traced back to the Ẹ̀gbá village of Itoku. This connection to Itoku adds another layer to his character and heritage, one that could have enriched the film’s narrative even further.

 

I don’t mind that the movie featured many popular, talented, and experienced actors. My concern is with the use of language, which didn’t match the calibre of the cast. For example, Bàbá Peter Fátómilọ́lá only appeared in one scene, and there was a disappointing lack of Yorùbá proverbs or any deep use of the Yorùbá language. It was too plain for a historical movie.

 

While they made an effort to speak basic Yorùbá in the Ọ̀yọ́ scenes (though it could have been better), the Ẹ̀gbá scenes were inconsistent. Some characters didn’t even speak Ẹ̀gbá at all.

 

Another cultural misstep was in the portrayal of Ọlọ́yọ́, who shot some slaves dead. In Yorùbá culture, it’s forbidden for a king to look upon a dead body, yet the scene was cast as though there was nothing wrong with it.

 

Adébọ̀wálé Adédayọ̀ (Mr. Macaroni) gave an exceptional performance and spoke the Ẹ̀gbá dialect well. However, his line, “Tí a bá ní ká mú èní, Ọ̀la ni a ma mú,” didn’t sound like something from Ẹ̀gbá in 1775; it felt more like a Gen-Z Lagosian reciting a Yorùbá proverb. The director should have adjusted this part to suit the historical setting.

 

Additionally, Lísàbí’s brilliance as a strategist went beyond mysticism—his tactical planning and the formation of the Ẹgbẹ́ Àro allowed the Ẹ̀gbás to prepare for the Ọ̀yọ́ invasion, ultimately freeing themselves from oppression.

 

According to history, Lísàbí instructed his fellow farmers involved in his Àáro Society to return to their settlements and kill the Ìlàrís stationed there. This demonstrated his profound understanding of strategy and bravery. It was a brilliant display of military cunning, far more compelling than the movie’s overemphasis on his partnership with spiritual beings as the source of his power.

 

I believe the storyline would have been more captivating had it highlighted this strategic brilliance rather than leaning so heavily on mysticism.

 

Before Christianity and Islam, both the Ẹ̀gbás and Ọ̀yọ́s were rich with military strategy and structured offices for warfare, not just mysticism. Africa is often misrepresented as uncivilized, but our history proves otherwise. Films like Lísàbí should showcase the sophistication of Yorùbá warfare alongside its spiritual elements.

 

Lastly, I must give credit to Hakeem Effect. His consistency in these revolutionary movies is noteworthy, and he deserves his flowers.

 

While we eagerly await the sequel to be released in January 2025, I’m rating Lísàbí an 8/10.

 

Credit: Johnson Okùnadé

johnsonokunade.com

Nollywood’s Box Office Queens: The Battle for Yuletide Season Supremacy

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The Nigerian film industry, popularly known as Nollywood, is gearing up for an exciting Yuletide season. The industry’s top female producers, affectionately referred to as the “Box Office Queens,” are set to release their latest movies, each hoping to outdo the others at the boxoffice.

 

The New Entrant: Wumi Toriola

Wumi Toriola, a talented actress and producer, has already made her mark with the recent release of “Queen Lateefah,” distributed by Cinemaxng. This move signals her entry into the coveted Box Office Queens club, where she will rub shoulders with established heavyweights.

 

Funke Akindele: The Reigning Champion

Funke Akindele, known for her exceptional acting and production skills, is fresh from her record-breaking success with “A Tribe Called Judah,” which grossed an impressive 1.4 billion naira at the box office last year. She aims to replicate this achievement with her upcoming film, “Everybody Loves Jennifer,” slated for release in December.

 

Toyin Abraham: Building on Success

Toyin Abraham, another highly successful producer, is building on the momentum of her previous release, “Malaika.” Her upcoming film, “Alakada Bad and Bojuee,” promises to deliver even more laughs and entertainment to audiences.

 

Mercy Aigbe: The Dark Horse

Mercy Aigbe, who made her cinema debut last year with “Ada Ọmọ Daddy,” is ready to take her production skills to the next level. Her upcoming film, “Thin Line,” promises to be a thrilling ride, and fans are eagerly anticipating its release.

 

As these producers employ innovative PR and content strategies, the stage is set for an intense battle for box office supremacy. With each film promising to deliver exceptional entertainment, audiences are in for a treat.

 

To outdo each other, these producers are leveraging various strategies:

 

1. Social Media Campaigns: Engaging with fans and creating buzz around their films.

2. Influencer Partnerships: Collaborating with popular influencers to promote their movies.

3. Unique Storytelling: Offering fresh, captivating storylines to captivate audiences.

4. Star-Studded Casts: Featuring top Nollywood talent to attract viewers.

 

The Yuletide season is poised to be an exciting time for Nollywood fans. With these talented producers vying for box office dominance, audiences can expect exceptional entertainment. Will Funke Akindele retain her crown, or will Wumi Toriola, Toyin Abraham, or Mercy Aigbe usurp the throne? Only time will tell.

Get ready to experience the best of Nollywood this Yuletide season!

 

Written by Adesina Kasali

Helen Prest-Ajayi: Ageless Beauty Queen at 65

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Helen Prest-Ajayi is a remarkable figure in Nigeria. She is best known for her diverse career as a lawyer, businesswoman, and beauty queen. At 65, her life story remains an inspiring journey of grace, fortitude, and dedication.

 

Born on September 17, 1959, she achieved national recognition at the age of 19 when she was crowned Miss Nigeria in 1979. This victory paved the way for her to represent Nigeria on the global stage at the Miss World pageant that same year. Yet, Helen did not limit herself to pageantry, going on to pursue a law degree at Obafemi Awolowo University and furthering her education at King’s College London.

 

Helen’s career as a lawyer spanned two decades before she shifted her focus to family and philanthropy. After stepping back to raise her three daughters, she turned her attention to literacy advocacy. Recognizing the struggles many African children face in learning English, she authored educational books and promoted initiatives aimed at improving literacy in Nigeria.

 

Helen’s journey has not been without challenges. After the death of her partner, Dr Tosin Ajayi, in 2020, she faced public scrutiny and controversy. Despite this, she has maintained her dignity, choosing not to respond publicly to negative comments about her relationship. Instead, she continues to honour the legacy of her late partner.

 

Her 65th birthday, celebrated on Wednesday, September 25, 2024, is good proof of her enduring influence and ageless beauty. She remains an embodiment of timeless beauty and wisdom. Through her work in law, business, and philanthropy, she has earned admiration and respect, making her an icon of Nigerian society.

Oil Theft: We traced illegal pipes to mosques, churches, palaces, says NNPCL

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Oil Theft: We traced illegal pipes to mosques, churches, palaces, says NNPCL

The Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) on Saturday expressed concern about the large scale of oil bunkering in the country, stating that it has traced illegal pipes to sacred institutions, including mosques, churches, and traditional palaces.

 

The agency also said increasing crude oil production from the current 1.7 million barrels per day to three million barrels is achievable.

 

Chief Corporate Communications Officer of NNPCL, Olufemi Soneye, revealed this during a Stakeholders Engagement Session with the National Assembly Press Corp in Abuja.

 

He noted that there are many challenges in the oil sector that must be addressed if the nation’s economy is to survive.

 

While recalling how a vessel arrested for oil theft was rearrested after three months, Soneye said the low prosecution rate of criminals undermines efforts to combat the crime.

 

His words: “I want everyone who is listening, there is a problem. If we do not take care of these issues, there is a problem.

 

“In November last year, we went to look at a vessel that was caught with crewmen. The chief of army staff was there, the military, air force, and the police. It was a very large vessel with about 23 crewmen on board.

 

“They were arrested and handed over to the military. But it interests you that sometime this year, around February, the same vessel was caught in another place.

 

“Now you ask, what is the prosecution rate of those stealing the oil? It is less than two percent. So you can see the result when you see over 2,500 folks being arrested, but then the prosecution rate is two percent.

 

“It’s a very difficult challenge for NNPC. Somebody was asking the question, why do we engage private security firms? It’s a very good question. The person asked if the military or law enforcement are not doing their job. No, they are doing their job. I can’t stand there and say they are not doing their job. But I will just say this.

 

According to Soneye, there is no country in the world where non-state actors are the ones taking care of national assets, saying there was a time when the production level went below 900,000 barrels a day.

 

He added, “At that point, the NNPC knew we were in trouble. And then we sought help by discussing with the community leaders and private security. And with the help of the private security, production went up to about 1.5 million barrels.

 

“Now the president formed a committee with the military. And working together with the private security companies, now we are between 1.6 and 1.7 million barrels.

 

“Have the private security really helped us? Yes, they have. Are the military doing their best? Yes, they are.

 

“But the important thing that we should take away from here still goes down to what Mr. Durotoye was saying about us being exemplary in what we do. If you take a trip to those places, you will see at times that some of these pipes are inserted; if you trace them, some of them go into churches, some into mosques, and some into the palaces of kings.”

 

Deputy manager, Command and Control Centre of the NNPC, Murtala Muhammad, has disclosed that more than 8,000 illegal refineries have been destroyed within the last six months in the country.

 

He said 5,800 illegal oil pipeline connections were detected and destroyed within the same period.

 

Muhammad said oil theft and vandalization of oil pipelines remain a threat to crude production in the country, listing Bayelsa, Rivers, Imo, and Abia among others as the hot spots.