May 2013 Publication - Nigerian Watch

FREE1ST ANNIVERSARY EDITIONSPONSORED BYNIGERIAN WATCHMay 2013 Issue No 013MoNthlyto Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comAMBASSADORTAFIDATHE MAKING OF ASUCCESSFULDIASPORAINSIDENews5 Voter apathy is costingblack communities dear7 ‘Unity’ the real prize atAfrica Nations Cup UK10 The fatal flaw inThatcher’s legacyFeatures20 ‘Perfect storm’ brewingover the Sahel, says report14 Parenting in the spotlightas child welfare concerns riseLife & Style32 Hair and how to embracethe natural look33 Saluting Black President43 Lagos-Kano railway openBusiness & Property24 Nigeria SWOT analysisimpresses business councilEducation39 How to help your childavoid the “summer slide”Sport42 All roads lead to Brazil –for seniors and juniorsNigeria mobilesa44p p30 day Monthly Passfor just£20To buy, , text 500a minuteto 65088G Get 500 minutes for £20. Rates quoted basedo on n full usageof minutes during the validity period.FREELebara to LebaraUK Calls and Textswhen you top up†Pass Ponly includes calls to selected destinations: all l o other calls and services will be deducted from your remaining account credit at Lebara’s standard PAYG rates. Minutes valid for 30 days. You may only have 1 Monthly500 Pass Pactive during the subscription period.† FREE Lebara to Lebara UK calls and texts are subject to a fair use policy. The validity of the FREE minutes and d SMS depends on the top-up amount, ask in store or visitlebara.co.uk for further details and full Ts&Cs.lebara.co.uk

NIGERIAN WATCH2 May 2013NEWSWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchOur common purposeover the past year since we launched Nigerian Watch wehave become closely acquainted with a great manyNigerian community leaders and have spent a great dealof time in Nigeria, otherwise known as the banqueting hall ofthe high Commission in Northumberland Avenue.While we frequently go to hear from visiting dignitaries orreport on formal events, equally as often we go to celebrate agreat achievement or innovative success from hard-workingmembers of the diaspora community.Both sets of guests share a common purpose – to reform theircommunities for the benefit of their compatriots.the mission is no more a remote ivory tower - it is theplatform on which examples of the very best practice from hereand home are rightly paraded. this is a new era for which wegive grateful thanks to Nigeria's ambassador to the UK DrDalhatu Sarki tafida, one marked by increasing and greateropenness.he – the Kingmaker in 2011 – represents the new Nigeria, andthe new diaspora.It is our endeavour too.last year it was said Nigeria is rising.Now Nigeria is awake.Maryanne Jemide, MDCORRECTIONyinka Shonibare MBE is to be awarded the highest honoura Nigerian citizen can receive in recognition of hismany great acheivements as an artist, and not, asstated in the previous edition of Nigerian Watch, bemade a Commander of the Federal Republic, which, asis implicit from its description, is reserved for the Presidentalone.Visa rules, fees and forms changeA raft of changes to the processof making visa applications cameinto force at the beginning ofApril – including the introductionof new application forms and anincrease in fees.New rules have been introducedgoverning applicants who fall underthe headings; graduate entrepreneur,exceptional talent (both Tier 1),intra-company transfers (Tier 2),and PhD students (Tier 4).There are also “minor changes”to rules governing Family and PrivateLife – to ensure there are thenecessary requirements for grantingdiscretionary leave to unaccompaniedasylum seeking children, andamending the length of discretionaryleave granted to these youngpeople to simplify the process andprovide some continuity for them –and temporary workers.Coinciding with the changes newapplication forms and fees were introducedand any application submittedon old forms and without thecorrect fee will not be processed.From 1 April 2013 the UK BorderAgency was split into 2 separateunits within the Home Office: an immigrationand visa service and animmigration law enforcement division.For more information visitwww.ukba.homeoffice.gov.ukNIGERIAN WATCHPublishers tevin Jemide & Victor omosevwerhaPublisher/Managing Director Maryanne JemidePR DirectorIlonka omosevwerhaManaging EditorJon hughesArt EditorCathy ConstableContributors obah Iyamu; harriet ogbeide; AJ James; AyoAkinfe; Funmi odegbami; Samuel Kasumu; Nnimmo Bassey;Fatimah yo-Fanah Kelleher; NgoziChief Cartoonistharold ogbeideOffice addressNigerian WatchChartwell house292 hale laneEdgwareMiddlesexhA8 8NPEmaileditor@nigerianwatch.commarketing@nigerianwatch.comsales@nigerianwatch.comWebsitewww.nigerianwatch.comtel: 020 8588 9640Fax: 020 7160 5232Nigerian Watch is a monthly newspaper owned by GreenWorld Media ltd.Views expressed in this newspaper do not necessarilyreflect the opinion of the publisher.All rights reserved. No part of the newspaper may be reproduced in any formwithout the written consent of the publisher.ISSN 2051-4670CAMPAIGN AIMS TO HALT SPREAD OF HIVAn unprecedented health awareness campaign has beenlaunched to halt the spread of HIV among the UKAfrican diaspora.It Starts With Me will run until Spring 2015, makingit the largest-ever HIV prevention campaign to targetAfricans in the UK.It has been created by the Terrence Higgins Trust andfunded by the Department of Health, in response to recentfigures that reveal the proportion of Africans acquiringHIV within the UK, as opposed to overseas, isnow higher than ever.It Starts With Me will emphasise the personal rolethat each and every African can play in stopping thespread of HIV in its tracks and drawing together thewhole community in that effort.Taku Mukiwa, Health Promotion Specialist forAfrican communities at Terrence Higgins Trust said:“While a cure or vaccine for HIV remains out of reach,what many might not realise is that medical advancesmean it is now within the grasp of Africans living inEngland to stop the virus in its tracks in this country.“By getting as many people with HIV as possibletested and on effective treatment, we will see new infectionrates fall rapidly.”To advertise call 0208 588 9640or email sales@nigerianwatch.com

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NIGERIAN WATCH4 May 2013NEWSWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchTHE BLACK VOTE CAN SWING ELECTIONS –SO WHY DO ONLY 1 IN 4 OF US VOTE?STEPHEN LAWRENCE REMEMBERED AS SIMON WOOLLEY EXHORTS US TO VOTEVoter apathy is costing usdear and threatens toundermine the many tangiblegains made over the past 20years, campaigningcommunity leader andfounder of Operation BlackVote Simon Woolley haswarned, writes AJ James.Black communities aren’tunlucky when it comes to austeritycuts, he said. “We sufferdisproportionately because wedon’t count.”Making the keynote speechat the second annual CLRJames lecture at the eponymously-namedlibrary in Dalston,Hackney, Mr Woolleytold the gathering that Torypoliticians sent their “thanks;thanks for not voting” as itmeant they didn’t have to worryabout offending the ‘black vote’when making funding decisions.“You don’t count, so they... We deliver smilesdon’t have to bother.”Asked to address the themeof the importance of the blackvote Mr Woolley delivered apassionate rallying cry to the 50people who had turned out tohear him and grill an expertpanel, including Diane AbbotMP and Pauline Prentice, theplain speaking Hackney mumwho shot to fame during the2011 London protests.Mr Woolley started hisspeech by noting it was boththe week when Mrs Thatcherhad died and 10 days before the20th anniversary of the savage,racist murder of schoolboyStephen Lawrence.It was out of the struggle forjustice for Stephen that OBVwas born. “When this youngboy died in April 1993, no-onewanted to know,” recalled MrWoolley.But a few good people refusedto let the matter rest andcontinued to fight for justice.The response to a second tragickilling, that of head teacherPhilip Lawrence, allowed themto expose the double standardsat play comparing the responsesto the two senselessWhat is our role whenunemployment among youngblack men is running at 60%?Sending packages to or from Nigeria? 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Get your parcels faster than ever to your destinations:Call us on: +44 (0) 208 890 8800 Call us on: +44 (0) 208 890 8800Unit 3A – Falcon Estate, North Feltham Trading Estate, Feltham Middlesex TW14 0UQ UKWeb: www.rowsy.com Email: info@rowsy.comOffices: NIGErIA – EurOpE – u.S.A – u.A.E - CHINAkillings.“Come 1996 and OBV wasborn,” Mr Woolley continued.“Our message was simple; it’sno longer the case that blackpeople ask for justice, we demandit.”The demand could be madeon the basis of some critical researchhe had carried out,which revealed the black votecould be the deciding factor in100 seats, primarily in the bigcities.“As a community we hadbeen demonised in the 80s and90s because there was no politicalprice to pay – thiswas a game changer,” heobserved.The first thing theydid with their new powerwas to demand an Inquiryinto the killing ofStephen Lawrence.“Me, Diane, [the late]Bernie [Grant], PaulBoateng, went to Jack Strawand told Labour, we want aninquiry in exchange for backing.”Their demand was met andthe McPherson Inquiry tookplace “and it told us what wealready knew, that the policewere racist, that all the institutionswere institutionally racist.And you ask, why vote? Go figure.”“We can only change thingsif we become politicallystrong,” he said. “Why do wevote? Because the journey isnot complete. A Tory told meto tell the black communitythanks for not voting. It meansthey don’t count. It means Idon’t have to waste my timetalking to them when I go canvassing.Why vote? Becausethere’s still a lot of work to bedone. “He told the story of CraigOwen – the assumed name ofLiberian Max Kpakio, whosaw his job application dismissedwhen submitted underhis African name but progressedwhen submitted usinghis assumed English name.“ W h yvote!?” hec o n t i nu e d .“Because evenour secretaryof state for educ a t i o nMichael Goveadmits thatblack childrenare markeddown inschool becauseof thecolour of theirskin. Howdoes he knowthat? Becausewhen theirwork is marked blindly they dobetter. Why vote?!”He continued to outline howMr Gove had planned to removeblack icons Mary Seacoleand Equiano from the curriculum.In less than three weeks apetition of over 30,000 hadbeen raised in opposition to theproposal.“Three weeks and Mr Govewrote saying he thought theywere very important for ourcurriculum. Why? Because westood up. That’s why vote.”The next battle is the factthat under the new curriculum“our children won’t see a blackNUMBER CRUNChINGthe meeting heard that only50% of the black populationthat is eligible to vote is registeredto vote. of that 50%,only 50% actually vote,meaning that in total only25% (1 in 4 black people)bother to vote.It is feared that changes tothe way people register tovote will further adverselyimpact the ‘black’ vote. traditionallyone person fromeach household has been responsiblefor registeringeveryone in the house. From2014 individuals will have toregister personally, and producecorroborating ID.face on the history curriculumuntil they are 11. Is that acceptable.If not, what are you goingto do about it?”“Voting is a lever forchange,” he said, but not the beall and end all. “We have to askourselves, what is our role.What is our role in a societywhere unemployment amongyoung black men is running at60%? Why do we vote? Becausethe journey is not complete.”The panellists spoke withone voice that voting was theonly way to make a difference.Ms Abbot told the meeting,“There’s one group of peopleno politician will dare to touch,that will not be losing any benefitsunder austerity measures,and that is older people. Why?Because there’s one thing everypolitician knows - older peoplevote.“That’s why you have tovote – if you don’t vote no politicalparty will take any noticeof you.”And she exemplified hownot voting had hit young people.“If young people ask youwhy they should vote. Just mentionEMA (educational maintenanceallowance). That was apurely political decision. Whatdifference does voting make?That’s the kind of difference.”“It’s the only way you canmake a difference,” agreedPauline PearceTo advertise call 0208 588 9640or email sales@nigerianwatch.com

NIGERIAN WATCH6 May 2013NEWSWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchAchebe celebration plannedNIGERIANS within the UK have decidedto organise a Chinua Achebe Day in Augustin honour of the literary colossus, whopassed away on March 21.At the recent Second London Annual IgboConference which took place at the School ofOriental and African Studies,it was decided that a daymarked with literary activitieswould be the best way tohonour the icon.Details are still beingworked out but it is likelythat the event will involve aseminar, readings from numerousauthors, a dramatisationof Things Fall Apartand a symposium.Dr Ndubuisi Anike, theorganiser of the Igbo conferencethat attracted academics,authors, musicians andartists from all across theworld, said that it was organised to enhance theuse of the Igbo language as a means of communication.Among those who participated at the conferencewas prominent Igbo author Chika Unigwewho read from her latest novel Night Dancer.Prominent academics like Ghanaian lecturerDr Kwado Osei-Nyame who teaches African literatureat the University of London and DrAkin Oyetade a senior lecturer of Yoruba Languageat the same university were also invitedas guest speakers. Nollywood director AmakaIgwe also sent an address on the role of the Igbolanguage in film production.Dr Anike said: “Achebe’s writing broughtIgbo, Nigerian and African history and cultureto an international audienceand his legacy will be eternal.A tribute has been incorporatedinto the programme andwe are also in the midst ofplanning an event to celebratehis life and works.”So far, a date is yet to be setfor Achebe’s funeral and it isunclear if he will lie in state inLondon enroute to Nigeriafor his burial at Ogidi inAnambra State.Anambra State governorPeter Obi has already metwith Achebe’s children in theUS and the final details of theburial plan are being worked out. Governor Obihas promised to give Achebe a grand burial inline with its policy to honour every Anambracitizen that has brought honour to the state.One matter delegates at the Igbo conferenceagreed on was not to refer to Achebe as late ashis work lives on and the man is very muchalive. “No one talks about the Late WilliamShakespeare, so we should not talk about theLate Chinua Achebe either,” Dr Anike said.MISSING PERSON APPEALPolice in Bexley have issuedan appeal for informationconcerning the whereaboutsof 14-year-old Emmanuel Akinte(pictured left).From Welling, Emmanuelwas last seen at around 10.45am on Friday 12th April outsideBexleyheath MagistratesCourt. Emmanuel is believedto have connections in thelewisham, Woolwich andBromley areas. he is describedas being 5ft 10inchesto 6ft tall, of muscular buildand both ears are pierced.If you know the whereaboutsof Emmanuel pleasecall police on 101 and quote13MIS011476. or call the BexleyPolice Missing PersonsUnit on: 020 8284 9111. If youwish to remain ANoNyMoUSphone Crimestoppers on 0800555 111, to tell them whatyou know, not who you are.STEPHEN LAWRENCE 20 YEARS ONDiscrimination against ethnic minoritiesremains prevalent among police officers, inspite of the issue being highlighted in theMacpherson report into the killing ofStephen Lawrence 20 years ago.That was the finding of a Populus poll.While more than half of the 2,053 adultssurveyed by Populus believe race relationshave improved since 1993, nearly 50 per centof non-whites said they didn’t trust thepolice.Stephen’s mother, Doreen, said politiciansshould be doing more to combat policeracism. “This government could have builton Macpherson and they haven’t,” she said.“When my son wasmurdered, theConservatives were inpower and they didnothing. And it seemsin coalition, now, theystill don’t doanything.”At Stephen’smemorial service,held on Sunday April22, MetropolitanPolice Commissioner Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe promised that his force would catchStephen’s racist killers.Company Training andCommunity CounsellingLC&CTA is a dynamic, well-established Personaland Professional Development, CounsellingSkills and Counsellor Training Association.Wearededicatedtothepromotionofequalityanddiversityofparticipationinallprofessionsand to learning through relational meeting andexistential experience.From the LC&CTA Centre in South London weprovideawiderangeofaccreditedpart-timecounselling and communication courses andworkshops for those in, or wanting to enter, thehelping professions.Counselling Courses and WorkshopsCommunity Counselling ServiceCorporate Training PackagesLC&CTA Co DirectorsChris Brown andJuanita HarriotOur courses and one day workshops arehighly affordable and provide inclusivetraining which often carries nationallyrecognised qualification.Our services and provisions are externallymoderated in order to guarantee QualityAssurance to OFSTED Standards.Clients may refer themselves to our lowcostCommunity Counselling Service.Sessions (six weeks minimum) last for 50minutes and cost from £2.00 - £15.00 persession according to status.We see clients from 14 years old to alladults.We provide One-Day Workshops, TeamBuilding & Development Skills Workshops,Short Courses and Personnel SupportServices.It may be possible for individuals to attendLC&CTA in-house training days rather thangroup sessions at your premises.email:enquiries@lcandcta.co.ukFull details on our website: www.lcandcta.co.ukLewisham Counselling and Counsellor Training Associates — Broadway House, 15-16 Deptford Broadway, London SE8 4PA. 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Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch NEWSWATCH May 2013 7‘UNITY’ IS THE GLITTERING PRIZEFOR THE AFRICA NATIONS CUP UKDespite having a cup to rivalthe infamous “Big Ears” ofthe European ChampionsLeague, that is not the mostglittering prize for theAfrica Nations Cup UK(ANCUK), writes AJJames. Unity is.That was the clear messagedelivered by the competition’sfounders when they werehosted at the Nigeria HighCommission for an afternoonof celebration on April 9.It was an afternoon of impassionedspeeches and goodhumour as the cup was presentedto Nigeria’s ambassadorto the UK His ExcellencyDr Sarki Tafida by the reigningchampions - the Super EaglesUK and their currentmanager David Doherty (seeprofile).The competition was cofoundedby Sam Ochieng(Kenya) and Dennis Mahadha(Uganda),Speaking on behalf of theorganising committee, MrOchieng praised Nigeria in thehighest terms.“Nigeria is a great country,”he told the more than 75 peoplewho attended the ceremony.“Today marks a new dawn forthe cup and the tournament.”ANCUK was launched fiveyears ago to foster social cohesionsamong African andCaribbean communities inEast London. As word spreadit expanded to North Londonand now attracts teams fromManchester also.“You are the first mission tohost us, but where Nigerialeads other follow and we hopeall other missions follow. Youhave taken the lead and Africaneeds Nigeria to take the lead.“As a community we mustnot leave one behind – let’shold each other’s hands as acommunity, as Africans andmove forward together. Unityis our strength. ““Through sports we canshow we can deliver excellence,solidarity and unity to helptake Africa to the next level.Africans in the UK are showingwe can do it best.“The tournament showsthe talents of our young peoplehere,” explained MrOchieng, “And gives them afocal point for their lives, especiallythose who find themselvesat the wrong end of theemployment ladder. We teachthese young people Life Skills,Discipline and Focus. We believethat the training they receivewill help them in thefuture.”Super Eagles coach Mr Dohertyexemplified how - revealinghimself to have been a 419fraudster before finding redemptionthrough football asboth the coach of the SuperEagles UK and founder ofMeridian Pathway – an organisationthat uses football as thebait to engage with youth andguide them to careers andwork experience.Mr Doherty’s story waspraised by Dr Tafida who toldhim, “You told us what you are.Forget the past, always rememberthe present and the future –I congratulate you on becominga very good Nigerian citizen.”The Tournament he welcomedin the warmest termsand told the organisers, “Youare doing our work for us.“My job here is to makesure the image of my countrycontinues to shine. Throughthe tournament other teamswill get to know Nigeria – andvice versa – not just our governmentsbut the country andits people.”The chairman of CanukBimbo Folayan Roberts alsopraised Mr Doherty and theyouth programme he mappedout for his Meridian Pathwayproject, and said Canuk wouldlike to work closely with himas engaging with Nigerianyouth had become a key priorityfor the organisation.ANC UK FIxtURESGroup matches to be playedSat 1st and Sun 2nd June.Quarter Finals and Semi FinalsSat 8th & Sun 9th Juneat West ham MemorialGrounds, E15. Final and 3rdplace play off, Sat 15th Juneat the Boleyn Ground, Westham United FC Stadium,Upton Park. www.africannationscupuk.comABOVE FRONT (L-R): The Cup, Ambassador Tafida, ANC UK founder and chairman Sam Ochieng and (rear and far left)Super Eagles UK coach David Doherty, with members of last year’s winning team

NIGERIAN WATCH8 May 2013NEWSWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchGEJ pays tribute to Margaret Thatcher– ‘one of the greatest world leaders’Baroness Margaret Thatcher will beremembered “as one of the greatestworld leaders of our time” Nigeria’sPresident Goodluck Jonathan said inhis message of condolence followingthe death of the former PrimeMinister.“Having already attained a legendarystatus in her lifetime after positively transformingBritain forever in her eleven-andhalfyears as prime minister, BaronessThatcher will, with her passing, formallytake her place in history as one the greatestworld leaders of our time.”He noted that “Baroness Thatcher willbe eternally honoured for serving hercountry with immense passion andstrong-willed determination as well as forthe great transformation that resultedfrom her economic and social policieswhich laid the solid basis for the remarkableeconomic growth that was witnessedin Britain under the Conservative Governmentthat she led.”The late Baroness Thatcher, the presidentadded, would always be rememberedby the world for her “very unique, distinctiveand purposeful leadership which restoredpride and respect to her countryand made a resurgent Great Britain a forceVISIT TO KANO, NIGERIA 1988: Margaret Thatcherwith Capt. Umaru in front; and her husband DennisThatcher just behind with Ike NwachukwuArthur Brooksto be reckoned with on the global stage.”He assured Cameron and the peopleof Britain that the government and peopleof Nigeria share their sadness anddeep sense of loss at the passage ofThatcher and joined them in praying forthe peaceful repose of her great soul.“President Jonathan and Nigeriansjoin the Thatcher family, citizens of GreatBritain, members of the Commonwealthand all those in far-flung corners of theworld whose lives were positively touchedby her dynamic and forward-looking policiesin mourning the passage of the celebratedfirst female British Prime Minister,”the statement added.However, during her tenure, relationsdisintegrated with Nigeria, its most populousAfrican colony.Partly this was over Mrs Thatcher’ssupport for both South Africa and for thewhite-dominated government of Rhodesia,a former colony now known as Zimbabwe.And partly it was over oil.In 1979, maybe or maybe not in responseto Thatcher’s decision to lift sanctionson Rhodesia (scholars don’t fullyagree on this question), Nigeria nationalisedthe British Petroleum interests in itscountry. Relations, as Drew Hinshaw ofthe Wall Street Journal wrote, “never recovered.”In 1980, the wildly popular Nigerianmusician Fela Kuti released an albumwith a horned and devil-eyed Thatchersnarling alongside Apartheid leaders.Still, she is remembered surprisinglywarmly by a number of Nigerians, accordingto Nigerian-American novelistTeju Cole, who tweeted that she enjoys“lots and lots” of Nigerian supporters“of the ‘I didn’t agree with all her policiesbut she was great’ variety.”SPIDER KING’S DAUGHTERSET FOR TOP BOOK PRIZElast year, she was being fetedfor being the youngest everauthor signed to the prestigiouspublishing house Faberand Faber. this year, londonbasedChibundu onuzo is upfor the distinguished CommonwealthBook Prize – which wasfounded in 1987 by the CommonwealthWriters – for herdebut novel The Spider King’sDaughter.Alongside Chibundu, otherNigerian authors nominatedfor the prize are IfeanyiAjaegbo for Sarah House andEE Sule for Sterile Sky.tobenna Nwosu’s No War IsWorth Debating has beennominated for the CommonwealthShort Story Prize –which was won last year byRotimi Babatunde.the aim of the prize is to“inspire writers, storytellers towork for social change”.Political, religious and socialconflict runs through many ofthis year’s shortlisted entries,but there are also humorousstories, stories of hope, andstories full of imagination andpower. the unmatched globalreach of the prizes allows readersinternationally to engagewith a world of literature thatmight otherwise remain undiscovered,consistently bringingless-heard voices to the fore.Encompassing a span of 54countries, entries are judgedwithin the five regions ofAfrica, Asia, Canada and Europe,the Caribbean and thePacific, each of which will producea regional winner for thetwo prizes. these will be announcedon 14 May 2013.

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NIGERIAN WATCH10 May 2013KASUMUWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchThe SAMUEL KASUMU ColumnThe fatal flaw in Maggie’s legacyMy last official week inParliament began with news thatdisrupted the usually predictablecourse of events in the Palace ofWestminster. Hearing of the deathof the first and only female PrimeMinister of the United Kingdomwas for many Conservatives amoment to pause and really reflecton where we are as a party.Thatcher’s death was not unexpected,and is why Gordon Brownhad sanctioned the ‘state’ funeralwhen he was Prime Minister. Butwhat we didn’t anticipate was that herdemise would result in so muchanalysis about what it was we trulybelieved, and if we as a nation, and aparty, are going in the right direction.Thatcher’s record of course still dividesopinions, but her ability to pushfor her convictions is one thing thatvery few debate. As a Conservative Inaturally respect how she took on theunions following the winter of discontent,and how she allowed individualsto dream of owning and growing theirenterprises, to generate wealth fortheir communities.AsANNIVERSARIES HERALDA GOLDEN AGE FOR AFRICAIt is so inspiring to see how theNigerian Watch team has developedand maintained such a high standardpublication, and it has been nothingshort of an honour to be a part of thejourney as a columnist.I am sure that the paper will gofrom strength to strength, just likethe whole of the Nigerian communityin Britain, so it looks like goodnews all round.May also sees the anniversary ofanother African organisation, theAfrican Union. launched in 1963, theunion continues to enhance its influenceas its member states’ economiescontinue to improve. What we areseeing in Africa is a moment in historywhere its relevance is being reestablished.We know that the continent wassignificant during various momentsof the history of our world, but formany reasons Africa has lagged behindseverely in more recent times.But this is clearly changing! Six of the10 fastest growing world economiesare based in Africa, and Nigeria particularlyhas an increasing relevanceon the world stage.If there is one criticism that mustbe given to the members of theAfrican Union during its 50 years celebrations,it would be that the newfound wealth must be spread moreevenly amongst its citizens.We can argue that the Africanelite are enjoying moments of greatprosperity, but record levels of unemploymentcontinue to be seen.We need the African Union to workcloser on issues like this, and also totake a more synergised approach todealing with the growing security issueson the continent.the next 50 years will be a significantone for Africa, so let’s hopewe’ll be celebrating a productive 100years for the African Union by thetime that time comes.happy Birthday to NigerianWatch and to the African Union.a youngman from aw o r k i n gclass backgroundI appreciatethefact that shemade it possible for many people tobuy their own council homes and tobe a part of the privatisation of somany former state owned institutions.But as a Briton of Nigerian heritageI struggle to engage with howshe allowed the centre right of politicaldiscourse to disengage with theplight of ethnic minority communities.Thatcher understood that shewas on the side of the majority whenshe ensured she was seen to be toughon immigration, and when sheshowed little interest in the underlyingissuesThatcher simply cared toolittle for minorities – this is anunfortunate part of her legacywe still have to overcomethat led toevents likethe infamousBrixtonriots inthe early80s. She famo u s l yshowed little regard for members ofthe black community that were, andstill are, a very small part of the UKpopulation, when engaging with thedebate on apartheid.Of course I am far too young toever remember living through aThatcher government, but like all ofus within this great country, herlegacy is still apparent in many ways.My hope is that one day we willhave a leader that is just as interestedin race equality as they are in other issuesof the day. Ultimately LadyThatcher was a very rare and specialpolitician because she fought for whatshe thought was right when taking onthe battles that she thought were necessary.But in the finalanalysis she failed partof society and left alegacy for the ConservativeParty that has still tobe overcome.The late MargaretThatcher is part of agroup of Conservativepoliticians that simplycared too little for minorities.These minoritieswill eventuallybecome a majority, andat that moment, this unfortunatepart of herlegacy will fully be felt.The Conservatives inGreat Britain will oneday get to a place, likethe Republicans in theUnited States, where wefind it almost impossibleto win elections becauseof the monopoly thatthe other party has whenit comes to ethnic minorityvoters.Some would argue that we are alreadythere. But I live in hope for anotherconviction politician to lead ourparty in the years ahead, hopefullywith the conviction for us to be aparty for all.Lady Margaret Thatcher, mayyour soul Rest in Peace!Win a trip to Africa FashionWeek in LagosMy organisation has agreed an official partnership with Africa FashionWeek London (AFWL). Entrepreneurs within the creative industry havethe opportunity to win some funding for their business, and a trip to thefirst ever Africa Fashion Week in Lagos. If you’re interested in finding outmore please email: startup@elevationnetworks.org

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NIGERIAN WATCH12 May 2013GISTWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchMadam AmeboLOSE-LOSE EITHER WAYthEy say the stomach is a way to a man’s heartand this is supposed to be particularly so withNaija men, who love their food passionately.Nothing beats coming home from a hard day’swork to the aroma of egusi, pounded yam androast meat.one particular gentleman in north londonwho works nights was recently coming home tounbelievable dishes every morning. on arrivinghome, he noticed that on a daily basis his wifehad cooked okra soup, egusi stew, moi-moi,fried plantain, jollof rice, ngwongwor, peppersoup and all other sorts of delicacies for him.obviously delighted with it all, our friendtucked into it all with a relish before going tojoin his wife in bed. then suddenly, it all juststopped and he wondered what had happened.he asked his wife and the only excuse she gavewas that her workload in the office had increasedand she no longer had the time or energyto cook such heavy meals.It later transpired that his wife was havingan affair with a family friend and every nightwhen he went off to work, the pal would comeround. once the kids were in bed, his wifeWhatever you want your party to beHowever you want to celebrate your occasionWe have the resources and the know howTo help you realise itvvvvvvvvvEvent PlanningMaster of Ceremonies(MC for Wedding & Party events)Venue DecorationWedding PlanningWedding Cakes, Birthday Cakes &All other Cakes for Special OccasionsFavor Boxes & FlowersNets & RibbonsBomboniereCake Frameswould treat her lover to a sumptuous meal beforeindulging in passion with him.I don’t know whether to call it sadly of fortunatelybut recently their relationship ended,so our man has to make do with takeaways onhis way home like it was before the romancestarted. What a lose-lose situation for him.NO YAB NAIJA MAN EVERNoBoDy can yab like the Naija man. We knowhow to use words to get our point across likenobody else on the planet, which is why Ghanaianfootball fans were ill-advised to be braggingahead of the recent African Cup of Nations.As it happened, Nigeria went on to win thetrophy, while Ghana’s Black Stars crashed out inthe semi final. once this happened, it was paybacktime and our Kenkey Bredas had to enduresome of the most humiliating taunts ever.one that cracked me up was a tweet from aSuper Eagles fan about 30 minutes after BurkinaFaso knocked Ghana out, telling one of hisGhanaian friends to tune into ItV Plus one. hetweeted: “Go to the Plus one channel, you arestill in the tournament there.”No doubt the response kept his pal silent.Please contact us on:Tel: 0203 4892410Mob: 07424 536669Mob: 07536 230601Or email: sales@aspirecelebrations.co.ukHall DecorationsMartini White Dew DropsWedding CakeVisit us at: www.aspirecelebrations.co.ukSince the Nations Cup, Black Stars fans havestopped talking about the Brentford massacreas the bragging rights have passed on to thosewho don the green-white-green.YOU’RE SO FOB, MUMWhAt does a woman do when her teenage songets so exasperated with her limited knowledgeof technical gadgets that he calls her a fresh offthe boat (Fob) mummy who behaves like a typicalAfrican? Well this is what happened to aDeptford nurse with the National health Servicewho has just decided to upgrade all the equipmentin her home.Cashing in on the January sales, our nursedecided to replace the household television set,two laptop computers, stereo set, DVD playerand video machine. Because she wanted qualitygoods that would stand the test of time, shewent for top-of-the-range gadgets that all camehighly digitised.It should thus not come as a big surprisewhen our nurse in her mid 40s struggled to operatethe equipment. After a week of beingwoken up and asked to operate machinery atvirtually all hours of the day, her 18 year old sonlashed out.“these are simple tasks mum. I think thelocal authority should organise educationcourses for parents like you who are so Africanand behave in a fob manner,” he said.No doubt our nurse is rueing splashing outall that cash on comforts for her kids. this singlemother-of-two actually bought the gadgets asa treat for her children.HORSE MEAToNE Dalston mother has taken red meat off thefamily menu and restricted all butchering purchasesto chicken these days in response to thehorse meat saga. It was not a case of her justpanicking though as she did it for good reason.A typical Igbo woman who grew up eatingbush meat our housewife always treatedher friends to delicacies with an assortedarray of cuisine. two weeks ago, however,she went to her regular butcher in Dalstonmarket to buy some rabbit and nearly passedout on the spot when she was told to have agood look at it.her butcher confessed that he was not sureif it was actually what it said it was as he hadrecently found out that cat meat was regularlybeing sold as rabbit. According to the butcher,in the wake of the recent saga, he had foundout that horse meat is sold as goat, cat is soldas rabbit and donkey meat is sold as beef.he said he has changed suppliers and is onlydealing with authentic African distributors whobring their organic meat straight from the continent.however, this was not enough to allaythe fears of our housewife who dropped whatevershe was buying there and then, anddashed home as fast as her feet could take her.After a week of buying nothing but packagedchicken, she has actually gone a step furthernow. these days, she only buys livechickens which she slaughters in the gardenherself.IMMOVABLE VISITORWhAt does a man do when he meets a womanon Facebook, invites her over to london to spendsome time with him but she refuses to leave aftera month? Well this is exactly what happened toa certain gentleman in thamesmead.From a distance, the idea of having a lady overfor a month to see how compatible they weresounded like a good idea. She would take her annualleave, spend some time with him and aftershe had gone back they would discuss what thefuture held.however, unknown to him, she had her ownagenda. She was working freelance so could justwalk away from her job in lagos and is now refusingto move out of his flat. She insists she istoo old to remain single and wants the man toput a ring on her finger.he is now too afraid to sleep with her and hastaken refuge on the sofa in the living room forfear of real entrapment. Does he call the police tokick her out, or wait until her six month visa expiresand call the immigration services?LOOK BEFORE YOU LEAPhAVING to toil for an honest living 30 days amonth in the UK is the lot of the Nigerian diasporacommunity – and most of us can only lookon in amazement as Nigeria’s elite live on a differentplanet from us.Most of us must wonder how some of our colleaguesin Nigeria manage to go about sprayingmoney as if it is confetti at a time when most ofthe population live in penury. Politicians are themost notorious, as it is not uncommon for themto give a friend $10,000 as transport money if youpay one of them a courtesy call in their office.If anyone ever wants to consider marrying aspouse from Nigeria, always be careful to find outif she is the kind who hob knobs with politicians.one north london man did not do so and paid ahefty price for it.As soon as they had completed their IgbaNkwu, his wife came over and he was gobsmackedby the kind of demands she was making.She insisted on shopping at harrods,spending £500 on an item of clothing at thedrop of a hat.obviously, this caused a lot of friction betweenthem and it was only going to end oneway. As it happened, one of her politician“friends” from Nigeria visited london for anevent and she went to see him. that was the lastour friend ever saw of his wife.Everyday for the thief, oneday for the owner returnsnext monthGot a story for MadamAmebo? Send it toamebo@nigerianwatch.comWe pay for every story thatappears in print

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch YOURWATCH May 2013 13Letters to the EditorWe’d love to hear from you. You can make sure Nigerian Watch is your kind of paper by letting usknow what you think, what you want to see in these pages and equally important what you don’t.So put pen to paper and send your letters to:the Editor, Nigerian Watch, Chartwell house, 292 hale lane, Edgware,Middlesex hA8 8NPor click away on your keyboard and email us at: editor@nigerianwatch.comLetters to be included in the next issue must be received by no later than April 17, 2013. The Editorregrets that anonymous letters cannot be published. Please include your full name, postal addressand contact telephone number. Names and addresses can be withheld, if preferred.Letters may be edited for publication.MY TIME AT THE HIGHCOMMISSIONI would like to take this opportunity to congratulateNigerian Watch on another qualityedition of the paper. As a Nigerian it is refreshingto see a quality newspaper with greatcontent. However, that is not why I write.Rather it is to let you know of my experienceof visiting the High Commission in London.I felt compelled to write as I saw in your2013 edition there was a letter from a gentlemantalking about his experience when goingto pick up his passport.In the first instance I write to clarify why hewas asked to go to Charing Cross Station. Forsecurity reasons visitors are not allowed totake bags into the Visa hall. As a consequencethose who turn up with bags are asked to takethem to the station where they can be safelyleft.The purpose of my visit to the High Commissionwas to apply for a new passport. Theonline application was quite tedious but notoverwhelming.Prior to attending the High Commission Ihad heard stories about the apparent chaos insideand even outside; and heard how the staff,even the doormen, are rude to everybody.Before entering the building I was preparedto go with the war with the doormen becauseof the stories I had heard. I am glad to saythat this was not my experience, and neitherdid I witness anyone else being treated in thismanner. I was pleasantly surprised by how politeand respectful the doormen were, and theywere very informative towards myself.The rest of my experience went smoothly. Iwas there for two hours in all, which was expectedas this is the time it is estimated theprocess will take on the High Commission’swebsite. I was told to come the following weekto collect my passport. To my surprise I wasonly there for 15 minutes. I would like to takethe opportunity to thank the ‘unsung heroes’ atthe High Commission.Bolu from Catford, London SE6ASPIRING TO BE A GREATNEWSPAPER FOR THE FUTUREI am an avid reader of all sorts of newspapers,from the Financial Times, to keep up with my investments,to the amusement of a tabloid for allmy Monday morning blues. But as a fellowNigerian I feel Nigerian Watch is becoming agreat addition to the newspaper market.I write to you in regards to your BusinessWatch section. I am very fond of finding outnew initiatives within the global financial marketsand feel having Zenith part of the LondonStock Exchange really shows how far Nigeria isprogressing on the global stage. We need toknow about these developments. Thankyou.Sunday Adeolo, BowTo advertise call0208 588 9640or emailsales@nigerianwatch.comTHE LEGACY OF CHINUA ACHEBEIn response to our extended appreciation of Nigeria’s founding father of African literature, thispoetic tribute was forwarded to us and we are delighted to share it with you.VERSES IN ANNIVERSARIES(A tribute to Chinua Achebe)The sun has set on all of usAs the unsavoury news reached its standThat a father figure of African LiteratureOur literary icon of no mean reputeHas responded to the beckon of the forbears.Like the life cycle of a house flyIt is a complete MetamorphosisOf an offspring of a vibrant cultureWho saw his culture going acculturalTo relieve the self-imposed burden of the Whiteman.When the foreboding struck and got goryWith thickest clouds over our skiesSending worries to all and sundryBehaving like a stubborn eclipse of the moonTaking verses in three anniversaries to clearAchebe was a dramatis personaA roving Ambassador of his immediate kinsmenFor his Kinsmen to conquer the clouds.The cloud reluctantly clearedBut the weight of his heart enduredPrompting his Valedictory Pretty ProseHis “There was a Country” went to the print.In a simple past simple was painfully publishedThat should work for the birth of his dreamOf a well built, painted and polished CottageJust like the affairs before “Things fall Apart”When two major civilisations traded tacklesAnd not in the land of “A man of the People”Where the likes of “Chief Nanga” held swayAs the uncultured Minister of CultureNot in the mould of the “Anthills in the Savannah”With ants biting from below and mosquitoes from aboveTo a country existing in a simple presentThat beholds the ingenuity in “Ogbunigwe”Achebe’s fears must be allayedAs the only tribute to his tribulationsChe! Achebe, thank you and goodbye!!!Ahmed Inusa, Minister/Head of Chancery, High Commission of Nigeria, London

NIGERIAN WATCH14 May 2013WORLDWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchCLIMATE CHANGE‘Perfect storm’ brewing over the SahelThe vast region of Africa known asthe Sahel will descend into largescaledrought, famine, war andterrorist control if immediate,coordinated steps are not taken toavert the perfect storm of climatechange and the most rapidlygrowing population in the world, agroup of experts from theUniversity of California, Berkeley,and the African Institute forDevelopment Policy (AFIDEP),has concluded.The report, known as OASIS (Organisingto Advance Solutions in theSahel) documents how, over the next30 to 40 years in parts of sub-SaharanAfrica, between 100 million and200 million people are likely to bewithout sustainable food supplies.This was the conclusion of a multidisciplinarygroup of experts fromAfrica and North America, whoasked what will happen in the Sahelwhen new projections of globalwarming are combined with rapidpopulation growth.The Sahel comprises one millionsquare miles of arid and semi-aridland along the edge of the Sahara,stretching from the Atlantic to theRed Sea. In 1950, the region contained31 million people; today thereare more than 100 million, and in2050, there could be more than 300million.New projections of climate changeprepared for the OASIS meeting foreseea rise of 3°C to 5°C (7°F to 10°F)above today’s already high temperaturesby 2050.While adding the caveat that scientificprojections several decades intothe future can never be exact, the reportstates categorically “the forecastsof population and global warmingmade for 2050 might come a decadesooner or later, but they will occur”.The projections for 2100 are startling,with a population of 600 million inthe Sahel and temperatures up to 8°C(13°F) above today’s norms.It would be totally implausible tosustainably accommodate this scaleof growth. Without immediate, largescaleaction, death rates from foodshortages will rise as crops wither andlivestock die and the largest involuntarymigration in history could occur.Already today, 12 million to 18 millionpeople in this region are hungry.Empowering girls and youngwomen through education and birthcontrol is seen as being key to avertingdisaster.The authors of the report made acommitment to construct a networkABOVE Map shows Sahel zone in orangeRIGHT The Sahel drylands:Dori, in Burkina Faso.of experts dedicated to strengtheningscientific analysis of the problems facingthe region and their solution. Allwere agreed that the cost of inaction –in depleted environment, increasedhunger, humanitarian care forrefugees, failed states, conflict, housingmigrants, and the further spreadof terrorism – will be many times thatof action to improve agriculture, providechoices on childbearing, and investin girls and young women.

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch WORLDWATCH May 2013 15SECURITYINTERPOL PLEDGE TOWORK WITH NIGERIAINtERPol (the InternationalPolice organisation)has pledged toassist Nigeria in tacklinginsecurity currentlyfacing the country.the President of Interpol,Madam MireilleBallestrezzi (picturedright), said the internationalpolice communitywould provideinformation and datato expose any criminalelement in and outsidethe country.She said: "Nigeria isa greater contributor and supporter of Interpol activitiesacross the world. We will all rise up to fight crime in thecountry and other member countries. We will make availablenecessary data, provide information in the area oftrans-border criminal activities."Madam Ballestrezzi said the organisation was greatlyconcerned about Nigeria’s security challenges, but assuredthe Minister of Police Affairs, Navy Captain Caleb onibolade,of Interpol’s commitment to fight terrorism and theachievement of relative peace globally.She commended Nigeria for her commitment to theideals that informed the setting up of the organisation,which has led to her active participation in its activities.POLITICSMinister proposes death penalty for rapistsNigeria should consider imposing the death penalty onconvicted rapists, the women’s affairs minister has said.She made her proposal because the incidence of rape hadreached an “alarming level”, with seven to 10 cases reported weeklyin Nigeria, Zainab Maina said. Mrs Maina said her ministry wasdetermined to tackle the issue. He department is also pushing forevery police station to have a specialist rape units.“It is also trying to make the police set up a gender desk in everypolice station to handle such cases so that serious punishment, perhapsdeath sentence would be handed to culprits,” she is quoted assaying by Nigeria’s This Day newspaper.The BBC’s Nigeria correspondent Chris Ewokor wrote an analysisthat said “poor communities are worst affected by rape and thereCELEBRITYOmoSexy named on Time 100 listare few successful prosecutions. The main problem in socially conservativeNigeria is the stigma attached to rape. Many people arescared to disclose they have been raped, either because they will notbe believed or because of the difficulty in proving cases in court.”In the few cases where there are convictions, “rapists are finedor sentenced to a few months in prison,” he added. In recent yearsthere have also been some prosecutions of men accused of rapingchildren from poor communities.While Mrs Maina’s attempt to focus on the problem will be welcomedby civil society groups, it is too early to say whether the rapelaws will be overhauled.While the death penalty exists in Nigeria for crimes such as murder,it is rarely implemented.Known to her fans as omoSexy, the star of over300 Nollywood features omotola Jalade-Ekeinde has received yet another accolade.this month she was listed as one of timemagazine’s Most Influential People of the year,appearing in the list under the sub-heading“Icons” along with the likes of Michelle obama,Kate Middleton, Aung San Suu Kyi and Beyoncé.time magazine’s film critic Richard Corlisswrote of omotola, “Employing a million Nigerians,Nollywood enthralls millions more whocome for the thrills, the uplift and the artful agitationsof omotola Jalade-Ekeinde – the Queenof Nollywood.”Married to an airline pilot, omotola is alsofamed as a singer, mother of four and philanthropist(the omotola youth Empowerment Programme).She has repeatedly spurnedhollywood’s advances in favour of remaining inNollywood.

FREERUGBY BOYSLondonNigerianwinpromotionSchoolgirl’sOlympicdreamcomestrueWIN 2 Business ClassReturn Flights to NigeriaPage 11NIGERIAN WATCHMay 2012 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comNIGERIA RISING● It’s going to be a D’BANJ summer● NIGERIAN IDOL to launch London audition● A star is born in EMI’s TinaPAGE 9INSIDENews- Air fares row special report- Yellow fever alert- Ibori seeks to serve gaolterm in Nigeria- MP’s witchcraft campaignFeatures- Why we need big baggageallowances in a small world- New calls for a SovereignNational ConferenceLife & Style- Spring fashions- Relaxed hair care advice- Unbeatable listings guideBusiness & Property- Diaspora bonds’ launch set- Lekki: Naija treasure islandEducation- Advice on preparing yourchild for entrance examsSport- Racing Eagles on thestarting gridFREEINTERVIEWWith theinspirationalMay7venTHE QUEENNigeria’sremarkablerelationshipNIGERIAN WATCHJune 2012 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comRINGING IN THECHANGES● How the mobile phone isrevolutionising Nigeria● Europe’s biggest black hairand beauty show hits LondonPAGE 9WINAn AppleI-pad 3Page 7INSIDENews- Special report: schoolsand gangsta culture- Brent & Enfield electNigerian figureheads- Iconic Africa Centreset to closeFeatures- The bars to achievingpolitical diversity- Meet Pa Lemoshe, as old asNigeria itselfLife & Style- Sporty chic- Community WatchBusiness & Property- Peacock Travel- Abuja: the City with a planEducation- Family survival guide toexam successSport- Arsenal’s Nigeria tourEXCLUSIVE DETAILSFREEFarewell dear friendsDANA PLANE TRAGEDY SPECIAL REPORT – PAGES 16-23NIGERIAN WATCHJuly 2012 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comGOING FOR GOLDHigh hopes for our olympiansPAGE 9INSIDENews- Little Lagos in Londonidentity debate- MBE for ‘laptop’ Mary- Diaspora encouraged tolobby for lasting changeFeatures- Youth Against Crime- Low-down on newimmigration rulesLife & Style- Twin sets are super trendy- The magic of shea butter- TV’s Meet the Adebanjostakes to the stage- Africa Utopia highlightsBusiness & Property- Bantuway Foods- Nigeria’s Garden CityEducation- The best summer coursesfor ambitious childrenSport- D’Tigers’ secret weapon- Athletes set new recordsFREEOLYMPICSMeet TeamNigeriaNIGERIAN WATCHAugust 2012 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comNEW WORLD NIGERIADAWN OF A NEW ERAEXCLUSIVELondon 2012Nigeria OlympicSchedulePAGE 9INSIDENews- 17-year-old playwrighttriumphs in parliament- Nollywood ‘Oscars’ gist- Bone marrow charity’swindfall from boxer ChisoraFeatures- TV’s Rhoda Wilson- Fashion’s Aerosoul- Afrobeats’ Maleek BerryLife & Style- Prostate Cancer- Eyeliner secrets- Summer fashions- Comprehensive guide toNigeria HouseBusiness & Property- Meet the lettings agentsetting new highs for serviceEducation- What to do now the GCSEresults are in (good or bad)Sport- Eagles Polo Unicef match- Schools’ reunion fun-dayThe British Bank for AfricaBigStrongReliableThe British Bank for AfricaBigStrongReliableThe British Bank for AfricaBigStrongReliableNIGERIAN WATCH ONE YEAR ONA big thANKyoU to all of thosewho have made Nigerian Watchsuch as great success since itburst into life in May 2012As we celebrate our first anniversary and consider the immenselypositive responses we’ve received from all sectionsof our community, we want to take a moment tothank the many people and organisations that have supported usalong the way and helped to make our first year such a success.Our heartfelt thanks goes to all our advertisers and sponsorswithout whom we would not be able to exist. We set out tocounter the negative portrayal of our community in the mainstreammedia, and instead proudly represent the many great successesof our vibrant community and Nigeria itself. Theirsupport has enabled us to do that. We would like to especiallythank those – you know who you are – who have shown theirfaith in us from the start and on the shoulders of whom we continueto build.A big thank you also goes to our many contributors who provideus with informative and engaging copy for our readers toenjoy. Over the past year, new sections – such as the Samuel Kasumucolumn by the eponymous social entrepreneur, author andpolitical campaigner; Food Watch by African cooking queenNgozi; Beauty Watch by the ever-beautiful Funmi Odegbami;and Afro-Hits, the definitive Nigerian music guide – have madefor an even more appealing read.We set out to inspire, inform and entertain and we hope wedo that looking at examples of best practice in all spheres of life.Last but certainly not least, we thank our readers for picking upand reading Nigerian Watch every month.We know you like it because you never tire of telling us so andwe thankyou for that. But the truth is a newspaper scuh as oursis only as good as the community it serves. We rely on you toshare your achievements, challenges and opinions with us. Soplease consider this a rallying call to come together even closeras a community and grow into a force to be reckoned with, bothin the UK and back home.

The UK’s Assisted Voluntary Return ServiceFREETinieTempah’sBoltmomentNigerianfashionon thecatwalkFather and son:Fela recalledand FemiUnpluggedNIGERIAN WATCHSeptember 2012 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comLAGOS THE NEWMONACO?INSIDENews- National Action Plan onfaith abuse launched- Students told to ‘rise-up’- Nollywood breaksdistribution barrierFeatures- An A* country: the UKGovernment view of Nigeria- Introducing Sam Kasumu- Wole Soyinka talks ‘frankly’Life & Style- Addressing depression- Lowdown on the LondonAfrica Music FestivalNEW Entertainment gistBusiness & Property- Eurobonds set for Nigeria- Buy-to-let boom and bustEducation- How to beat the back toschool bluesSport- Arsenal stars in Lagos- Athletes set new recordsGOLD STARSAFRICAN TIME SAMUELUniqueIf we meanKASAMUfirst forbusiness,The historicTeamit’s time tochange weNigeriachangeall missedNIGERIAN WATCHOctober 2012 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comFREEYEARS OF52INDEPENDENCEThe making of a great nationINSIDENews- International right to votecampaign launched- Why Amina’s making waves- MPs release state of thenation report on NigeriaFeatures- Adebayo Jones rocks NELawards ceremony- Talking Drummer: TonyAllen let’s rip on AfrobeatsLife & Style- British Urban Film Festival- Yam Day celebration andNigerian Carnival low-down- All you need to know aboutbreast cancerBusiness & Property- The perils of of not lookingbehind the postcodeEducation- How the choose the bestschool for your childSport- Tensions mount overEagles’ AfCon deciderFREEAFROBEATS‘The Story SoFar’ featuringDJ AbranteePage 20NIGERIAN WATCHNovember 2012 Issue No 007Page 36MONTHLYThe bookthat hasrockedNigeriaGÈLÈPOQUEThe rise andrise of ourcrowninggloryPage 22To Inspire, Inform and EntertainA Personal History of BiafraEXCLUSIVE EXTRACTSPAGE 17-19YOUR FATHERThe CANUKchairman inhis own wordsnigerianwatch.comINSIDENews2 Nigerians among theworld’s most optimistic5 MKO Abiola’s daughterwins in the Den8 Why Carnival wascancelledFeatures15 Nigerian Bassey namedsupreme justice campaigner16 Labour robbed us of ourentrepreneurial spiritLife & Style33 Seun Kuti wows Americaand heads to the Forum34 Film Africa Festival35 Your unmissable guide tothis year’s PantomimesBusiness & Property24 Diaspora is ‘catalyst’ forgrowth in bilateral tradeEducation42 Free resources to helpyour child succeed in schoolSport48 Eagles AFCON pledgeFREEYUMMY!Festive foodwith Nigeria’sNigellaPage 18NIGERIAN WATCHTo Inspire, Inform and EntertainDecember 2012 Issue No 008MONTHLYFABULOUS! AFROHITS E-ZINEMeet the Sampler insidesingular Check outMr CUSHH www.afro-hits.comPage 17Page 21JUSTICE FOR LARRYTears turnto joy forNigerianboxernigerianwatch.comINSIDENews3 Dana Air flight outrage6 Churches hit back at‘unjust’ watchdog verdict7 Nigeria’s youth need you!13 Occupy Nigeria goesGreenFeatures15 How Nigerians are floatingthe UK’s retail sector25 Woolwich Boys’ AnthonyAbuah defends his 419 filmLife & Style32 Osteoarthritis – guide towinter aches and pains35 Christmas Fun – fairs,ice skating and nights outBusiness26 Nollywood boosts touristtrade to NigeriaEducation40 Christmas gifts andaction plan for festive funSport42 The Williams sisters geton down in NigeriaFREEKNIVES &GANGSThe issuewe mustconfrontWOW!NaijafashionrocksSelfridgesPage 5NIGERIAN WATCHJanuary 2013 Issue No 009COMPREHENSIVEAfrican Cupof NationsSCHEDULEINSIDEPage 13MONTHLYTURNINGPOINTThe hit fromthe WoodsNolly & HollyPage 24To Inspire, Inform and EntertainHoping for asuccessful yearnigerianwatch.comINSIDENews3 The man out to shoot theKings of Africa5 Private sector recruited totackle corruption in Nigeria6 Governor Obi firesreformers’ zealFeatures14 Hoods star Femi Oyeniranon the Tottenham imperative16 Shadism – the ugly littlesister of racismLife & Style26 Health and beauty tips tomake you feel fab for 201329 Mouthwatering recipesfrom Ngozi’s kitchen32 Staying in must-dosBusiness & Property22 Where’s Britain? askAfrica’s investment chiefsEducation36 How to prepare yourchild for OxbridgeSport40 Nigeria’s major golf coupROLEDJANGOVALS DAYMODELVERDICTWhy FebruaryThe risingThe slave14 can be bothstar oftrade westernmagical – andengineeringhits the spota menacePage 7Page 32Page 19NIGERIAN WATCHFebruary 2013 Issue No 010 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comINSIDENews3 Labour ‘snub’ firesactivists’ hunger to be heard5 MBE for man behindNigeria Health Care Project6 Is your hair making youunhealthy?Features8 We need to do more toencourage businesswomen14 Where will the Maliinsurgents go?Life & Style25 How to keep both warmand cool this winter29 Stay with me recipes35 Afro HitsBusiness & PropertyFREEEASTENDERS’ STARREVEALS NOLLYWOOD DREAM20 Time Nigeria prepared forthe end of oil revenueEducation27 How to prepare yourchild for Oxbridge – part 2Sport42 Meet the amazing sicklecell Super League proFREELOVING LAGOSSamuel Kasumuon his belatedreturnhomePage 10HAIR RAISINGThe beautywho thoughtshe was abeastEL-RUFAIWhy Nigerianeeds you(diasporans)backPage 30Page 16NIGERIAN WATCHMarch 2013 Issue No 011 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comWHYWE’RE THE37THSTATEINSIDENews3 Goodluck in London andshaking hands with OBJ6 4 Presidents launch OOF7 Beyoncé sports Naija style8 Canuk head to the regionsFeatures17 Picture special football onthe streets of Africa18 Nnimmo Bassey on Shelland ‘sabotage’ ruling20 Maternity services andmothers’ courageLife & Style27 Monochrome March31 W0W festival lowdown35 Afro Hits latest gistBusiness & Property22 Minister of finance setsout Nigeria’s stallEducation37 Win the chance to pay offyour student loanSport48 West Ham to host UKAfrican Nations Cup finalDIAMONDCHINUA ACHEBETRIDENTReturn of16 Nov 1930 – 22 Mar 2013Why thethe voiceAn appreciationunit’s closurethat soldof the foundingleaves us all21m recordsfather of AfricanvulnerablePage 20literature Page 24Page 19NIGERIAN WATCHApril 2013 Issue No 012 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and Entertainnigerianwatch.comINSIDENews2 Centenary proposal toTATE LAGOSscrap the name Nigeria4 Community leaders lobbyMet on frontline cutsEMBASSYYinka Shonibare 6 The Wills Smith and .i.amon the Brixton beatBACKSMBE to receiveARTIST’SFeaturesNigeria’s highest 10 Premier League isPLAN FORmissing a trick in Africa17 Elephant sanctions threatNIGERIAhonour18 Best of Black Presidentand the ‘pen robbery’ prophetNATIONALMUSEUMLife & Style28 Good food for kidsOF MODERN30 Remedies from the clearskin councilARTBusiness & PropertyFREE44 Is Lagos set to rivalLondon’s property market?Education39 How to give your kids anOxbridge vocabularySport48 Ian Wright on the uniqueAfCar:The Game showdownThinking of returning to Nigeria?Tofind out more about your options callWE CAN HELP YOU Choices Assisted Voluntary Return ServiceIf you are an asylum seeker, havefree onDiscretionary Leave to Remain or have0808 800 0007nolegal status in the UK, we offer free,confidential advice and information to helpyou decide whether to return.orgo towww.choices-avr.org.ukSAVE THIS DATEFriday, 17th May 2013from 6.00pm-12 midnightTO HELP US CELEBRATETo mark our first anniversary we want to invite asmany readers as we can to celebrate in true Naija styleIf you are interested in attending write to jane@nigerianwatch.comand leave your Name, Address, Email and Telephone NumberEmail subject: Readers InvitationThis event is Free to attend but it is STRICTLY BY INVITATION.Your invitations will be sent to you once processed.BUSINESSESWe will be hosting a business exhibition on the night.Businesses interested in exhibiting their productsto over 500 guests should send an email tosales@nigerianwatch.comor Call 0208 5889640

WESTERN UNIONA global leader in money transfers, Western Union has more than500,000 agent locations in over 200 countries and territories. In theUK alone, the company has more than 9,800 agents from whichNigerians can receive and send money, in addition to the company’sonline and telephone channels.Western Union has always participated in the life of Nigerians in the UKhaving sponsored the Nigerian Corner at Notting Hill Carnival and theWazobia Lounge at the Africa Olympic Village last year.The company is also the new Global Partner of the UEFA EuropaLeague, and together with its charity Western Union Foundation drivesthe PASS initiative, where every successful pass in this season’sEuropa League is converted into funding to support one day’seducation for young people around the world.Apart from sponsorship projects, the company continually strives toimprove its service for customers. In January this year, it dropped itsprices and improved currency exchange rates on money transfers toNigeria, as part of its Africa pricing reduction initiative.Last year, Western Union completed 231 million consumer-to-consumertransactions worldwide, moving $79 billion of principal betweenconsumers, and $432 million business payments.

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NIGERIAN WATCH20 May 2013PARENTWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchAs parents we all want the best for our children. And as parents we believe we knowhow to achieve that. But do we? If we are such good parents why are so many of ourchildren failing at school, ending up in care or in gangs? or worse, dead?these are the kinds of questions that are increasingly being asked within the diaspora.At the beginning of April more than 300 parentsattended a conference on parenting at Christ Apostolic Church.Subsequently the leaders of both the Damilola Taylor Trust andYACnCAY have joined forces to stage a multi-faith conference onparenting this summer. There is a growing consensus amongthe Nigerian and African diaspora that we need to look atwhat we are doing. That we might be in need of…PARENTAL GUIDANCEThe issueChildren’s charity Afruca is launching a newprogramme to halt the dramatic rise in thenumber of children from the diaspora who arebeing taken into care. Ayo Akinfe reportsGIVEN that May is the nationalfostering/adoption month across the UK,it is the most appropriate time of the yearfor the Nigerian community to sit down and reflectover what has recently become a cancer eating intoits fabric. Over recent years, the number of Nigerianchildren being taken into care as a result ofover-zealous parenting – that is legally tantamountto child abuse – has risen dramatically.It is widely accepted that old habits die hardand this is particularly the case when it comes tocultural habits, making adaptability to new environmentsdifficult for migrant communities.Looking at the way many Nigerian parents bringup their children in the UK today it is perhapsnot surprising that an increasing number arefalling foul of the law, as they see the age-oldhabit of smacking as an essential ingredient forgood child-rearing.Unknown to many first and second generationAfrican parents, any corporal punishmentthat leaves children with marks and/or bruises isan infringement of UK child protection law andwhat they are doing is deemed illegal. Consequently,child protection services and the law enforcementagencies have no choice but tointervene and take their children into care wheneverany cases are brought to their attention.One organisation endeavouring to remedy thesituation is the charity Africans Unite AgainstChild Abuse (Afruca), which was set up in 2001by Nigerian single mother Dupe Ariyo after aspate of tragedies involving children: VictoriaClimbié died at the hands of abusive parents;Jude Akapa was murdered as “a witch”; andDamilola Taylor, who was killed by two otherchildren as he walked home from school. SubsequentlyAfruca has firmly established itself as theprimary African children’s charity in the UK.Conceding that we have a big problem on ourMany parents donot know anyother way,apart frombeating them’hands, Ms Ariyo admits that the number ofAfrican children being taken into care at the momentis a cause for concern.Adding that it is fuelled by a combination ofcultural conservatism and ignorance. Afruca isworking with several local authorities, particularlyacross Greater London to address the issue.Ms Ariyo said, “These days, the threshold isa lot lower as all a child needs to do is go toschool and say he or she was smacked. Immediatelythat happens, the police and social serviceswill be involved and they will subject that childto a medical examination.“If a child is examined and any marks orbruises are found on his or her body, not only willhe or she be taken into care but so too will all theother kids in that house. In Afruca, we have beenworking across the country with families wherethe children are being removed by social servicesfor different types of abuses.”She added: “A lot of parents will tell you thatthis is the way we have been brought up and thatthey do not know any other way of bringing upand disciplining their children. This is a problembecause many African parents are bringing uptheir children the way they were brought up andmany of them do not know any other way apartfrom beating them.”Conscious of the fact that somethingneeds to be done and verysoon too, Afruca has launched a seriesof initiatives to combat themenace and chief among these istraining. Under the scheme, Afrucaprovides errant parents with alternativesto smacking and also offersthem copies of its manual on childprotection.Among the alternatives given toparents are the concept of being anideal role model as a parent, rewardschemes for good behaviour andpositive enforcement. However, Ms Ariyo believesthat a new scheme due to be launched inthe autumn called Children’s Champions, is whatwill have the greatest impact as this will enableAfruca to reach out to hundreds and thousandsof African parents across the UK.Ms Ariyo said: “Under our new programmecalled Children’s Champions, we will recruitAfricans as volunteers to work with Afruca tosupport families. The idea behind this is to try tosolve our problems as a community.“People will be recruited and assessed and ifthey are suitable, we will give them professionaltraining in child protection. They will be trainedin areas including sexual abuse, genital mutilation,protecting children on the Internet and howto protect children in faith organisations.”Ambitious in its scope, the Children’s Championsprogramme is designed to be one that hasa domino effect, with those who are trained thenexpected to go on and train others.Afruca hopes that the scheme will enable it toreach right across the large African communityin the UK in a way that has never been achievedbefore. Ms Ariyo said: “Our conservative estimationis that if we recruit 50 people a year, overDEBBIE ARIYO OBE:Founder of Afrucatwo years, each one of them will be obliged to goand train 25 people. This means that altogether,we are looking to reach 2,500 Africans over twoyears.“That, however, is a conservative estimate asa person might go back to their church with 400people and train them all. We are hoping that wecan help people get new skills so that they willstill be able to discipline their children but withouthaving to beat them.”According to Ms Ariyo, the recruitment ofproject staff for the Children’sChampion programme has alreadybegun and she hopes that the projectcan get underway properly inAugust/September. It is being sponsoredby the UK Department forEducation, which is responsible forchildren’s affairs and Ms Ariyo believesit offers great value formoney.She added: “It costs about£2,000 a week to look after a childin care but if you look at what weare doing, you will see that it onlycosts about £100 at most to train a volunteer. Ourproject also allows us as Africans to get involvedin the matter of child abuse.”Of equal importance is the fact that the Children’sChampion programme and other projectsrun by Afruca are designed to keep African childrenaway from a life of crime. Ms Ariyo addedthat of late, a lot of gang members in Londonhave Nigerian names due to the fact that manyof them were recruited into a life of crime fromthe care system.She added: “A lot of the children who go intocare end up in the criminal justice system, so wewant to step in to prevent this. Our projectshould help reduce the number of children goinginto care and in turn reduce the number of themgoing into the criminal justice system.”Hopefully, Afruca will succeed in its quest aspre-colonial cultural habits are ill-suited to life inthe 21st century and beating a child into line isan archaic practice long past its sell-by date.Other primordial hangovers that parents inthe diaspora should excise from their lives includeexorcising demons from children under thepretext that they are witches and wizards and excessiveshouting.

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch PARENTWATCH May 2013 21The analysisAs individuals, parents and a society ourcollective failings have put our children in greatdanger. How long are we going to keep turninga blind eye?, asks mental health expert Eze NachoAs parents, adults and society at large wehave a big responsibility to intervene withstrategies to curb the blood flow and painson our streets, which stem particularly from youthcrime and adult crime in general. In today’s worldviolent crime has reached a level where some childrenfind it abnormal to be on the street withoutweapons of some sort. Some cannot relate to aworld where the youth walked thestreets without weapons. This is ourpresent day reality.Some parents are doing greatwork by not only teaching their childrento be self-aware but to seethemselves in others. However, thesewonderful parents and their well-behavedchildren remain at risk if theirneighbour’s children are unruly. Thequestion is; how safe are you andyour Rolls Royce amid vehicles withoutbrakes?It is crucial for every parent tounderstand that though no baby isborn ‘good’ or ‘bad’, nature is superior to nurture,and nature often propels babies to do things we(human beings in general) consider ‘wrong’, for example;eating from the dustbin. Every ‘normal’two year old would first of all scatter before theyarranged.To scatter, babies do not need teaching; theynaturally do it. But to arrange, babies would needto be nurtured, and persistent teaching and learningis required. Nature offers every child the samethings as it offers all animals. In fact, nature ismore favourable to other mammals’ babies thanhuman babies. This is why every child irrespectiveof creed, race or gender would sleep, play and eatgiven the choice. As important as these are, anyThe derailment ofchildren oftenstems from thederailment ofparentschild who is given the freedom to do only thesethings, is very likely to become useless.All the things that separate human beings fromother animals are ‘orchestrated activities’ andwithout introducing repeated and persistent teaching,nature would never offer these ‘orchestratedactivities’ to a child. This is why no child can wakeup and brush their teeth, tidy up their room oreven say good morning without being taught. Asmuch as one teaches their child, often naturewould still force them to forget or just do whatEZE NACHO: author of YourChild, My Child, Whose Childcomes naturally (which is often the wrong thing).Nature generally lures children to seek out forfun, sweet and easy things that have less or no dividendattached. Nurture helps children to havestructure and introduce important but difficult tolearn things to them. Nurture helps children to appreciatein the end that ‘nothing good comes easy’and ‘to be useless one does not need to do anything’.However children often hatethose that bring structure to their livesand love those who bring fun, sweetand easy things their way.Any parent who leaves their childto the devices of nature would surelyend up in prison. Today many parentsare losing the battle because of economicpressures as they seek to makeends meet. Such parents often compensateby offering their childrengadgets. Of course, the gadgets thatusually interest most children are litteredwith violent actions, inappropriatelanguage and sexual material.At times parents have no idea of the contentsof the gadgets and are unaware thatthey have invited their ‘worst enemy’ toindoctrinate their children. Makers of thesegadgets and those that licence them are mainlyinterested in the sensation they generate andtheir financial reward; with little or no intereston the adverse impact on the end user (children).As children get clued into gadgets, human interactionand appreciation decline as the ‘me, myselfand I’ phenomena kicks in.Once a child is poorly brought up, they becomea threat not only to you but everyone else.For a child to be well rounded, they must learnto love themselves and others and then learn toshare and wait. Academic excellence withoutsound moral value is the same thing as having abeautiful church with demon worshippers. Academiceducation only teaches your children howto subtract and add; it never teaches them howto share. Parents, who have pursued only academicexcellence for their children in the maingave us those responsible for the economic meltdown.They were the individuals content on collectingmillions of pounds in bonuses whilstsome people in their companies could not pay fora roof over their heads.Children are products of the society they livein. Children can only replicate, enhance or minimiseacts, words and behaviours observed/witnessed.It would be odd for a child born inEngland not to speak English and speak Frenchwithout it being introduced to them.This is the reason, the derailment of childrenoften stems from the derailment of parents. Parentswhose whereabouts are not known to theirchildren are likely to have children whose whereaboutsare not known to them. Babies arrive inliquid form awaiting the shape provided by theirparents. If a good shape is provided, the baby islikely to solidify in it, depending on other interactions/influencesfrom within and outside. If theparents provide no shape, the baby would formits own shape (often challenging in nature) andwhen it solidifies, any attempt to alter it wouldinvolve breaking the solid (which would amountto abuse) and induce rebellion from the child.As individuals, parents and society, our collectivefailings have put our children and ourworld in great danger. We must by the sametoken, collectively act and begin to right thewrongs by learning to parent in this new age oftechnology with secret individual passwords, aworld where wants are fast outstripping needs,Children can onlyreplicate, enhanceor minimiseacts and wordsobservedfreedom and choice seemingly exist without responsibility,and illicit substances flood ourstreets. Collectively we can do this.What do you think?let us know by writing toeditor@nigerianwatch.comYOUR CHILD, MYCHILD, WHOSE CHILD?Eze Nacho is the ‘reluctant’ author of YourChild, My Child, Whose Child? he onlywrites when he feels there is a need to getthe message out there. his first book wasthe equally honest Hard Hitting, The RealTruth About Men, Marriage and Infidelity.your Child… considers various factorscontributing to the ‘crisis’ we have in ourworld today, fatally being played out byour young people. the book is packed withcase studies that make all too real the issuesfacing parents in the diaspora. yet, asthe title of the book implies, Nacho verymuch believes that ‘society’ has an equallystrong bearing on a child’s development.he pulls no punches as to the consequencesof what happens when we fail achild. “one unruly individual has the potentialto generate mayhem all the wild animalsput together could not generate,” hewrites. this is because of the cognitive abilityof human beings. Animals cannot make,use or deploy weapons. your Child is atreasure. It makes acompelling case of theneed for our collectiveresponsibility as parents,and as a society, toour children.Available via amazonand direct fromwww.whosechild.com

NIGERIAN WATCH22 May 2013ANNIVERSARYWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchOur MISSIONWe are in a new era ofopeness – we want tomake life better for ourcompatriotsThe Diaspora is a greatasset to Nigeria – butwe need to formalisea percentage ofremittancesThe British attitudetowards Nigeria isfantasticThe Presidentialelection (2015) is along way off –I won’t be involvedBanya is a fast developing independent agency offeringfoster care to children and young people. We are dedicated toproviding a high quality service to these children and their carers, Do you work well with children?Do you believe all children deserve theopportunity to reach their full potential?Do you want a rewarding challenging career?Do you want to make a difference andhelp a child build a new life?Can you be a role model to young people?Do you like the idea of working from your own home?Do you have a spare room?We need you and our children need you!PHONE US NOW0845 402 7657 YES to any of thesequestions, you could be just the type of YES to ALL the questions, Foster Carer. professional staff and book in for one of ourspecial information sessions.Please ring for details of events in your areaA sense of belongingCALL 0845 402 7657 FOR DETAILS OF YOUR NEAREST REGULAR COFFEE MORNINGSFor further information please call the number aboveAt the end of this month, on May 30, it willbe five years since Dr Dalhatu Sarki Tafidapresented his Letters of Credence to HerMajesty the Queen and formally becameNigeria’s Ambassador to Britain. They havebeen five transformative years that have seenthe mission develop from one infamous formisery and mayhem to one that is confident,open, assured and increasingly efficient. It isnot faultless – complaints from the visa hallpersist, as they do the world over. But nowwe have an Ambassador that wishes to hearabout any such issues or grievances. It representsan openness that is evident in DrTafida’s outlook and increasingly the mission’sapproach.“This Mission is not only meant to improve relationshipsbetween Nigeria and the UK,” heexplains with enthusiasm. “It is also here to renderservices to Nigerians residing in the UK.Nigerians should not shy away from the Mission.I know it has had negative publicity in thepast, but I can assure you that we are now in anew era. We have reformed the immigration andConsular Sections for efficient service deliveryand many Nigerians and non Nigerians whohave visited the Mission recently can attest tothis. Anybody can come and give us constructiveadvice. If anybody has a complaint, heshould write to me. We would respond. We inviteall Nigerians to help us with constructiveadvice on how to make life better for our compatriotshere.”Recently, at a farewell function for departingMission staff, one spoke of having graduatedfrom the ‘Tafida Institution”; the hallmark ofwhich is good communication and oversight.Meetings proliferated, said the departing official,but so did the Mission’s efficiency and effectiveness.Committees, such as that on immigration,were established, and bonds with the diasporastrengthened through the offices of CANUK (TheCentral Association of Nigerians) and NIDOSouth (Nigeria in the Diaspora Organisation).“Along with the Council of Elders, CANUKand NIDO are the two major Nigerian Organisationswithin the UK,” said Dr Tafida. “As theHigh Commissioner, I have remained proactiveand engaged with the Nigerian community inthe UK through these organisations.Strategy, then, is clearly evidence-based under DrTafida – as befits a man of a medical background.From a child wanting to save lives to a politicianwho wants to change lives for the better, DrTafida has dedicated his life to public service.What inspired him?“I started my professional life as a medical doctorbecause of my love for the profession andpassion for saving lives,” he says. “Lately, my desireto serve my country and people in anothercapacity also motivated my choice of career asa politician and diplomat. It is all about serviceto humanity. As a medical doctor, one can savelives but does not have the power and scope tomake law and policies that will impact on thelives of the generality of people.”From graduating in medicine and surgery, andthen adding a post-graduate diploma in PublicHealth policy from Liverpool University, DrTafida worked as a registrar until his policy expertiseled to his being drawn into health politics,becoming the permanent secretary of the KadunaState Ministry of Health (1976-1980) and thenthe personal physician to President Shehu Shagari(1980-83). A decade later he was appointedFederal Minister for Health.Dr Tafida next emerged as a Senator, and duringhis second term was the Senate Majority

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch ANNIVERSARYWATCH May 2013 23Leader of the House. Considering he has been atthe heart of Nigerian politics for the best part of40 years he carries very little baggage. He is creditedwith negotiating the regional settlement thatallowed Goodluck Jonathan to become Presidenton the death of Yar’Adua.A PDP supporter Dr Tafida is known to havetaken a sabbatical from London in 2011 to leadthe campaign committee for GEJ. With posturingalready afoot back home it is rumoured that DrTafida will return to lead the charge in 2015. Hedenies the rumour with great charm. Nevertheless,who would choose to be without the wisdom.The ambassador will not be drawn, as befits adiplomat with a clearly defined understanding ofhis role.“I am here for all Nigerians and I ensure thatmy official responsibilities are efficiently dischargedfor the benefit of my country,” he says.“My duties at the Mission include promotionof the cultural heritage of my country, protectingthe interest of Nigeria and her citizens in diaspora.“This is in additionto promotingthe relations betweenNigeria andthe UK and the internationalcommunityas a whole, forthe overall wellbeingof the world.Working as adiplomat also helpsyou to observe andlearn about developmentalprogrammesandwitness the successesof othercountries, which wereport back on witha view to helping toimprove the systemin Nigeria.”With three differentaudiences to addressit is beholden on adiplomat to be quickto master a briefand be able to speakto all subjects withequal sincerity. Havingwatched DrTafida over the past year it is clear he is a man ofwhom it can be said he is as comfortable talkingto the common man as he is philosophers andkings.As such, alongside the day to day diplomacy,he conducts a hectic public schedule in support ofNigeria and Nigerians in the diaspora. One dayhosting the winning Super Eagles UK footballteam and endorsing the endeavours of the MeridianPathway Project in Charlton.The next, tackling a far thornier agenda at alunch with the Business Council for Africa, whichDr Tafida had proposed they set.“Normally I address them but I wanted to givethem the opportunity to say what they wanted togear about.” So Dr Tafida addressed the challengingissues, such as the floods, kidnapping,Boko Haram, domestic debt, the power sector,fuel subsidy and more. So what is his prognosisfor the future?“With a dynamic population of over 160million people, Nigeria is one of the fastestgrowing economies in the world,” he said. “Andit is blessed with abundant but untapped resources,which provides the country with unparalleledpotential.” However, “The majorchallenge has been to translate the growth ofthe Nigerian economy into greater social benefitsfor the people.To do that “Nigeria needs to sustain the reformsin key sectors of the economy as it isdoing, and continue to promote internationalcooperation that will enhance its opportunitiesto leverage on the benefits that comes with it.”He points out that institutions like the WorldBank, IMF, and UNESCO are developmentpartners that help with the “Nigerian project”.But equally so too is the diaspora, which is recognisedas being a great asset, and its many and increasingsuccesses across all walks of life areregularly celebrated at the Mission.“Nigerians have left Nigeria in droves and theyIN PRAISE OF OUR FOOD, OUR GLORIOUS FOODThere is no greaterchampion of Nigeriancuisine than DrTafida. On most occasionswhere heis hosting, DrTafida ensures hehas the opportunityto extol itsvirtues. Here he explainswhy.“this question is allabout patriotism.our food is part ofour cultural heritageand it is the duty ofthe high Commissionerto promoteNigeria’s cultural heritage.“We try to letpeople appreciateand enjoy our food.It is a way of promotingour culturalidentity to make ourfood acquire internationalstatus.“though Nigeriahas various dishes,ranging from Akara,pepper soup, MoiMoi, Jollof rice, Eba,Amala, tuwo,Edikaikong, gbegiri,mia kuka and soforth, glorious food,we still need to appreciateand promoteNigerian cuisineinternationally.“It is important tonote that manyNigerian restaurantshave opened in theUK. We should beproud of anythingNigerian.“Many of our nonNigerian guests doenjoy our cuisine immensely.”can be found in most countries of the world; inEurope, London’s Peckham is called “LittleLagos,” Dr Tafida observes somewhat sadly,adding the oft overlooked fact, “The NigerianDiaspora contributes to the development andsustenance of their host Communities.” Thedownside being, “The potential that they offerto their host countries are opportunities thatcould have been captured by Nigeria.”Remittances have been a driver for change anddevelopment for a long time. He is clear aboutthe great economic impact on Nigeria the diasporahas had, is having and can have in the future.“The Nigerian diaspora is indeed a strategicasset as they are increasingly numerous, wealthyand well connected. In a bid to continue in theireffort to help in the development of Nigeria asa nation, we support each other.“Their financial and human resources havegreatly impacted some communities in Nigeria.Also remittances from the Nigerian diasporacontribute significantly to the Nigerian economy.The money they send home helps stabilizethe foreign exchange demand. Most of their remittancesare used to support family membersin Nigeria and are used for consumption (food,clothing, education, health care etc).“However, I will advise them to divert someof the funds remitted to Nigeria for consumptioninto investment opportunities and by sodoing the Nigeria Diaspora can effectively createjobs and wean their relations off their dependenceon them for subsistence.”Has he noticed any change in attitude from theBritish establishment toward Nigeria during histenure? His answer is emphatic.“Not at all. The attitude is and always has beenfantastic. When David Cameron visited Nigeriawe set an ambitious target to double trade betweenour two countries by 2014 and we are wellon target to achieving that.”As we part I ask if he has a message he wants topass on to the diaspora. He reiterates the opendoor policy that exists at the Mission today andexhorts diasporans to take advantage of it. Hethen adds,“I would like to take this opportunity to ask allNigerians in whatever sphere of life to be lawabidingand always remember that there is noplace like home.”(Est. 1990)Specialist in Temporary & Permanent Home Helpl Au Pairs Regular & Summer Au Pairs (Drivers)l Housekeepers & Couple Housekeepersl Domestic Workersl Qualified Nannies / Mothers Helpl Summer HelpThey are fully vetted with checkablereferences: Police Checks From theircountry of origin. They come fromEEC countries. They are available tostart ASAPRegular 12 Months Au Pair Placement Fee: £360Call!!! 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NIGERIAN WATCH24 May 2013BUSINESSWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchBUSINESS COUNCIL BULLISH ABOUT TRADE AND INVESTMENT DESPITE “RISKS”NIGERIA SWOT ANALYSIS WINS APPROVALNigeria’s strength, weaknesses, opportunities andthreats were put under the spotlight at the annualgathering of the Business Council for Africa(BCA) at the High Commission in London. Andthe frank exchange of views left the members ofthe influential trade and investment organisationconfident that Nigeria is travelling in the right directionand is a destination economy for investors.Every year the BCA gathers at the HighCommission to receive a briefing from Nigeria’sAmbassador Dr Dalhatu Sarki Tafida. Wherehe ordinarily determines the subject for discussionthis year he broke with protocol and issueda point-by-point response to a BCA report,raising concerns over a raft of issues emergingin Nigeria.Dr Tafida told the gathering. “As the representativeof the Nigerian Government here inthe UK, it is our duty to provide an informedand credible position of Government on the issues.We believe that this regular exchange ofinformation will help to clear issues and furthercement the ties between our two countries.”The issues the BCA wanted reassurance ona whole raft of subjects: Boko Haram/Kidnapping;Flood Disaster; 2013 Budget/Foreign andDomestic Debt; Corruption; Banking/ForeignExchange/Excess Crude Account; CBN Governor;Federal Road Maintenance Agency; PetroleumIndustry Bill INNPC/OPEC; Oil Theftand Pipeline Vandalism; Bill for State of theNation Address; Power Sector; Politics; TaskForce on Petroleum Subsidy; State Pardon; andRemoval of Fuel subsidy.In response Dr Tafida delivered a robust assessmentand, where necessary, rebuttal of thecharges levelled against the Nigerian FederalGovernment (a copy of the document is availableon the High Commission websitewww.nigeriahc.org.uk).The list might seem overwhelming but onmany of the issues the audience simply soughtupdates on activities – such as the war on terrorand flood relief – or industry-specific intelligence,such as questions relating to the petroleumindustry bill and road building.Progress was evident across all areas andwhere there were contentious decisions, such asthe pardon for Chief Diepreye Alamieyeseigha,realpolitik explanations satisfied the audience.“The Federal Government has informed thathis role towards the restoration of peace in theNiger/Delta was part of the consideration forthe amnesty granted him,” Dr Tafida explained.Dr Tafida concluded by saying, “I applaudthe cordial relations between Nigeria and theCLIVE CARPENTER SPEAKING: Dr Dalhatu Sarki Tafidaand David Lamb listeningUK, and in particular the continued increase inthe volume of trade between our two countries.I have no doubt that with your partnership andcontinued interest in promoting trade betweenour two countries, the target to double trade by2014 will be realized.”The vice chairman of the BCA Clive Carpenterreceived the briefing on behalf of the organisation.“As always His Excellency has givenus a fascinating insight into the current developmentsin Nigeria,” he said. “And we all knowNigeria is so frequently and sadly misrepresentedby the media and it’s not always easy forthe uninitiated, or indeed the initiated, to sortthe facts from the myths.“Today, your Excellency,” he continued. “Ithink you have sorted the wheat from the chaff.What you have done for us is give us a SWOTanalysis – you’ve given us a summary of thestrengths, weaknesses, opportunities andthreats – which Nigeria currently harbours.”He concluded by saying, “A word about therisks of doing business in Nigeria and this appliesto the rest of Africa. We all know there arerisks; we should not deny them. But risksshould be managed and mitigated.“Just as Africa is made up of many differentcountries so Nigeria is made up of many differentstates. If there is a particular problem, riskor challenge in one or two states it does notmean you abandon the whole country?”He asked rhetorically, “If a bomb explodesin London, or there is a flood in London, doesthat mean you do not go to Manchester orBirmingham? In Nigeria there’s always an alternative.And to put matters into context theGDP of Lagos state alone exceeds that ofKenya, East Africa’s beefiest economy.”Having earlier noted that Nigeria is growingat a rate of 7% annually compared to SA at 3%the message was clear. For investors, Nigeria remainsa most attractive destination.Growth in Africa is built ondemocracy’s ‘forward march’Sub-Saharan Africa’s expected GDP growth –forecast to average 5.8 percent this year by theAfrican Development Bank – is the envy of muchof the world as parts of the developed Weststruggle to climb out of recession.But Africa-watchers attending the ReutersAfrica Investment Summit say the continent isalso marching forward across metrics rangingfrom democracy and governance to economicmanagement and the rule of law.“those basic fundamentals are either in placeor getting better,” said Clifford Sacks, CEo forAfrica of Renaissance Capital, the Russian investmentbank which has been a pioneer inopening up the business frontier in Africa.Sacks and others said the old investors’ viewof Africa as a pool of oil and minerals to betapped as a resource – while still significant, especiallyfor big commodities buyers like China –is not the full picture.Mining represented only 14 percent ofAfrica’s growth while 53 percent came fromservices such as banking and telecommunications,quoting data for 2002-2009 from Renaissance.“When you peel back the onion a bit ongrowth ... two thirds – and that is what reallyattracts us – has been consumer driven,” saidCarlyle’s Chigwende.he said his group, the world’s second largestprivate equity asset manager, was focusing onfast-growing sectors like food, consumer goods,telecoms, especially mobile telephony, andbanking.there is broad consensus, however, thatAfrican governments must seize the opportunityof rising growth and investment if theywant to make sure benefits reach populationsclamouring for jobs and better lives.Investing resource income and other revenuesin infrastructure, education and health isessential, said Johan Van Zyl, toyota’s CEo inAfrica.“We have a young population in Africa. Itneeds to be absorbed into the economy,whether informal or formal, and job creation isgoing to be critical,” he said. “Africa will not justhave to be a consumer continent, but also a producingcontinent.”To advertise call 0208 588 9640or email sales@nigerianwatch.com

FASHIONTrenchcoat solutionsfor unpredictableweatherPage 29The indispensible guide to beauty, fashion, music,theatre, and much moreWATCH&Life, StyleEntertainmentsBeautyRejoice in yournatural barnetPage 3227Community WatchLady Yemi sets outto boost tourismto Africa30FoodDiscover how to makeyour own African babyand toddler foodLONDON COMMUNITYGOSPEL CHOIRPAgE 3533The best listingsFrom Saluting theBlack President toAfrican Music Festivals

NIGERIAN WATCH26 May 2013PERSONALWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchANNOUNCEMENTSDear EkiTo place your announcements call 0208 5889640Email: announcements@nigerianwatch.comOr post to: Nigerian Watch, Announcements, Chartwell House,292 Hale Lane, Edgware, HA8 8NPBIRTHDAYSOgBEIDE, HAROlD (May 2nd)happy birthday to a loving Brother.From The Ogbeide FamilyIDOWu,TOyIN(May 4th)Birthdaygreetings toour lovelydaughterand sister.From Mum,Dad andsiblingsOMOsEVWERHA, BENJAMIN(May 15th)We wish our brother a very happybirthday, from Freddie, Jamesand VictorA.A.A EM-MANuEl (JP)May 22NDWe pray thatGod will grantyou yourheart’s desirewith ease, totaldivine health &long life,heaven at last.have a blessed day. lots of lovefrom Committee of FriendsHugHEs, BETTy (May 24th)An unbirthday, if you have abirthday, then you have a birthdayand not just any birthday but a 10thBirthday!happy Birthday Betty from Bo, BB,Daddy and Mummy xxxxOkuNDAyE, suyI (May 23rd)OkuNDAyE, IyARE (May 22nd)happy birthday suyi and Iyare.May God give both of you long lifeand prosperity. From your cousinsIsabel, Nicole and kimberlyAkINOlA,MOyO (May31st)happy 10thBirthday toour lovelyMoyo. Mayyou continueto grow inGod’swisdom. lotsof love fromDaddy, Mummy and MonjolaREMEMBRANCEMRs FOlukE CHRIsTINA AMOs25th April 1938 – 20th April 2012We remember our beloved Mum,Sister, Grandmother and GreatGrandmother Mrs Foluke ChristinaAmos, who passed away too soonon 20th April 2012.Mummy we miss you. Wordscannot express how we feel.From your Children andgrandchildrenSHE IS LEAVING MEDear Eki,My wife has asked for a divorce. I don’t know when she started slipping from myhands and I was caught off guard when she requested the divorce. I love her verydearly, and don’t think I can live without her. We’ve only been married for threeyears and we’ve got no kids, so I’ve got no bargaining chip to make her stay. Shesaid she is no longer in love with me. What does that mean? How can one fall outof love so soon after we took vows saying ‘till death do us part’? This is so out ofthe blue, I seriously suspect she has been having an affair. I am so confused. I don’teven know where to start. I really don’t want her to go. What do I do?Mo, londonWell, as much as we don’t want it, things like this do happen. Of course you don’t want her to leave. Youbelieved when she swore you will be together till death do you part, so it’s understandable that you are hurtby her decision to leave. Might I also add that if your current state of reasoning is one where you thinkchildren would have been a bargaining chip, to be used in preventing your spouse from leaving you, thenit’s a good thing that there are none yet. Children are often used as weapons in a divorce and some neverrecover from the experience.Your wife can’t just have stopped loving you. There must be a reason why she’s fallen out of love withyou. It could be that she doesn’t want to hurt you any further and that’s why she’s not telling you. If yoususpect she’s been having an affair then I suggest you ask her straight instead of speculating. If you reallywant her to stay, the best way is not to think of ways you could bully her into staying. Instead, ask her forthe reason she’s no longer in love with you and see if it’s something you can fix. If it is, all you can do is askher to give you time to fix things. It couldn’t have been such a shock to you. Spouses usually have a sixthsense about these things. You feel your loved one slipping away but you ignore the signs or try to convinceyourself that it can’t be happening, that perhaps it’s all in your imagination. If she agrees to work on yourmarriage, then do what you can to win her back. If not then there is nothing you can do but move on.PARENTS SAY NOTO OSUDear Eki,I am very much in love with my fiancéeand intend to marry her soon. The problemis my parents. When I told themabout her and that I intend to marry her,they said over their dead body becausethey found out that she comes from afamily of Osus. They have threatened todisown me if I go ahead and marry her .In the eastern part of Nigeria where Icome from, Osus are outcasts and are leftalone as no one wants to be associatedwith the stigma they carry. I thought thiswas the 21st century and people don’tbelieve in such things anymore. I am actuallysurprised as I am not sure wherethis way of thinking is coming from. Mydad attended a very prestigious school inthe US, is very well educated and holds aPHD. My mother too well educated andthey are both seen as upstanding membersof their church.I didn’t expect this type of reactionfrom my parents. I expected older membersof my extended family would definitelyhave a problem with it, but Ifigured my parents were more openminded and would help bring themround to our way of thinking. I was sowrong .I can see the hilarity of my predicamentas it’s like a scene out of a Nollywoodmovie but the fact remains that Ido really want to marry this girl and Iwould like to do it with my parents’blessings. I have spoken to them andeven gotten open minded members ofmy family to try to get them to changetheir mind, but to no avail. I need someadvice on this issue please.C, londonFirstly I have always believed in that beautiful quoteby Thomas Jefferson, “All men are created equal.”As far as I’m concerned two people should notget married only for medical or life threatening reasons.Having said that, your parents are obviouslystill deeply rooted in their traditional belief that anyonewho comes from an Osu blood line is less thanother men. Unfortunately, those types of beliefs arehard to shake. So, apart from getting the head oftheir church to make them see reason, I do not seewhat else you can do to change their mind. It isworth a try and that might work, but I would adviseyou to prepare yourself for the worst scenario (i.eyour parents refusing to accept her and disowningyou), because in the end you might just have to considerif she is worth going against your parents.I would ask you to make a wise and thoroughconsideration of the matter and be sure that this iswhat you really want. I know a lot of people mightsay the answer is obvious, you should tell your parentswhere to go. But in reality being disowned byyour parents and family is a very difficult thing to gothrough and you would want to be sure you madethe right choice and have the right person at yourside during the difficult times ahead.I wish you all the best.FoR ADVICE oN lIFE ISSUES, write toDear Eki, Nigerian Watch,Chartwell house,292 hale lane,Edgware hA8 8NP,or email:eki@nigerianwatch.com

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch COMMUNITYWATCH May 2013 27YEMI AKANDE With officials of the The NigeriaHigh Commission, LondonYEMI AKANDEPRISCILLA NWIKPOPEOPLE AND PLACES BY YEMIAmbassadors and diplomats representing Nigeria,Mozambique and Trinidad and Tobago lenttheir support to the gala launch of a new TVprogramme set to put Africa on the map as atourist destination.The brainchild of the woman popularlyknown as “Lady Yemi, Tourism Ambassador”,the programme People and Places aims “topush tourism to the very frontierson the continents ofAfrica and the Caribbean”.Catch it on Ben TVUK/Africa every Monday@ 10pm local timeAmbassadors and Diplomats from Nigeria, Mozambique, Trinidad and TobagoYemi with Mr Femi Okutubo and Mozambique HIgh CommissionerH.E GARVINNICHOLAS High commissionerto Trinidadand TobagoMAGE MODAcouture modelsFROM L-R Prince Adeniyi (Special Assistant to the Nigeria High Commissioner (NHC)) Simon Ogah(NHC) a guest, Lady Yemi, and the ambassadors of Mozambique and Trinidad and TobagoChairman of Business Council forAfrica Mr Clive CarpenterYemi with childrenYemi with friends.

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Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch FASHIONWATCH May 2013 29TRENCH TOWN ROCKSBy Obah IyamuThe unpredictable weather means you won’t survive without aclassic trench – but when the sun comes out so will the desire toget an all important witty message writ large on your chestmotto is keepeverything else simple. this time aroundjeans are event-appropriate, as they arebest matched with structured or formalpieces. offset a pair of rugged denim withformal shoes. Bang!Trench coats Update yourcloset with a new trench coat. Itis a classic that never datesthanks to its constantevolution. Whether styled overa formal dress or casualseparates, a trench coat lendssophistication to any look, andif you are up against summershowers, this is the coolest wayto go. take it up a notch by choosing one in abright colour.Message T-shirtst-shirts are a fail-safefashion perennial, butwe are now puttingcool words on them,talk about tweets and funnymessages or hot topics. Style withanything from jeans to pencilskirts, keeping the silhouettefeminine will take you frompolitical campaigner tofashion crush. I will be wearing logo-emblazonedknits when it’s still chilly and conversational t-shirts all summer long.Piled up bracelets A sweet nod to thegypsy but without the boho touches, weare wearing our bracelets piled up. Fromdelicate strings, to perspex or chunkymetals add a touch of rebel sophisticationto your look.the trick is to choose a collection ofsimilar patterns in the form of gold, silver,pastel or even lucite materials; wear withbracelet sleeve tops for evening, orpushed up sleeves to relax the look.ARE YOU WARM, PATIENT AND ENTHUSIASTIC?AT2 Au pairs - UK's leading Au pair/nannyIntroductory Service have job vacancies for au pairsand nannies in London and all over the UK.Please contact Kemi on 07956 203739or email info@at2aupairs.comwww.at2aupairs.comDestroyed jeans While it may not be the mostpractical look I have ever fallen for,ripped jeans havetaken over the streetsand I am smitten.Colours and fierceprints are so lastseason, that’s whywhen it comes tostyling this piece our

NIGERIAN WATCH30 May 2013FOODWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchNgozi’s KITCHENBaby and toddler African mealsIwas inspired to include babyfood in this column afterhearing a conversation betweentwo African new mumsabout how confusing and timeconsumingit can be to cookAfrican meals for their babiesand toddlers. As a mother myself,I know how busy life can be,juggling work and family commitments.And I know how hardit can be to be inventive everynight in the kitchen and cook ingfrom scratch.However, making your ownbaby food doesn’t have to be timeconsuming.You can make it in bulkand freeze it, or cook ingredients yourusing for your own meal.When you first introduce yourbaby to solids it doesn’t take long toprepare a few simple purees, using ingredientsyou’re cooking for the restof the family such as plantain, yamand sweet potato.By doing this, you’rebaby gets to try a wide varietyof foods, you'll introduceflavours and texturesfrom African foods thatyour baby will become familiarwith, preparing themfor the flavours of theirheritage. Not only will yousave money, but you willalso know exactly what's inyour babies food, no salt,artificial flavours, coloursor preservatives added, andno surprise ingredients likehorse meat for beef!Homemade baby food is alsohigher in nutrients and tastes far betterthan store bought products. Andthe pleasure of preparing meals foryour baby, and the enticingaromas as you cook, willmake both you and yourbaby excited about eating.Food retains more of itsnutritional value, taste,colour, texture and aromawhen only lightly steamedand not overcooked.Introducing solid foods is a veryimportant step in your baby’s developmentand well-being. Studies showthat babies who are fed nutritious,healthy diets grow into stronger kidsand better-adjusted eaters than thosewho are fed poor diets.Here are a few quick, easy andhealthy meals to try at home for yourlittle ones. They are simple recipesand only a few cooking utensils thatyou would find in any kitchen are allyou need; such as a fork for mashingand sieve or food processor to producepurées (and the ingredients ofcourse).Ngozi’s Kitchen encouragesAfricans in the diaspora to be proudof their ethnic food. We also teachhow to cook healthy African babyand toddlers home meals.For more information emailngozi@ngoziskitchen.comSWEEt PlANtAIN yUMMy MAShIngredients1/2 portion of ripened plantain50g cooked chicken fillet1/2 onion1 medium carrot1 cup of sweetcorn1 bell pepper2-3 mushrooms1/2 cup of Fresh fluted pumpkin or babyspinach (optional)a dash of olive oilCooking InstructionsShred the chicken fillet. Wash, peel and chopthe plantain in cubes. Chop the onions, carrot,bell pepper, mushrooms and slice very tiny,fresh fluted pumpkin or baby spinach (optional)and set aside.Cook the plantain for 10 mins over a lowheat until soft and tender. Add a dash of oliveoil along with the onions, carrot, bell pepper,mushrooms and the chicken fillet. Stir andcook for 5 mins then add the fluted pumpkinor spinach and simmer for 5 mins more andvoila; it’s ready to serve the toddler.For the baby blend with a little breast milkor formula. Drain over a bowl and use the backof the wooden spoon to mash, or blend topurée until it’s well mixed and serve.you can also cook this meal with oily fishsuch as Mackerel and Salmon, as it containsmany wonderful nutrients for your baby andit’s good for them to develop a taste for it.Tips: you can cover and refrigerate for up to48 hours, or freeze in ice cube trays until solidthen knock the cubes out transfer into afreezer bag, label with date and use within 3months. to defrost, remove 2 or 3 cubes offrozen meal and allow to come to room temperature,stir, heat through fully and serve.oKRA BABy SoUP AND SoFtPoUNDED yAMIngredients4 kkra50g oily fish, preferably boneless1 finely chopped oniontomato pureepounded yam flourCooking Instructionstop and tail the okra then cut crosswise intoslices, or blend (blending the okra is advisableto avoid choking for both baby and toddler).Place fish – I recommend salmon or mackerelfillets – in a medium sized sauce pan. Addonion and a little water and stir frequently, toavoid the paste sticking to the pan. once theBreakfastoat porridge with ahandful of almondnuts with low fat milk1 hard boiled eggpineapple (100g)1 glass of green tea.lunchyam pottage ( Asaro)cooked with lots ofAfrican spinach andfish (3 level cookingspoons)Paw Paw (100g).1 glass of waterokra starts boiling, turn down the heat andallow to cook covered for 3-5 mins until tender(okra cooks very quickly). Add 2 tablespoonsof tomato puree. Serve the baby from 6months and toddler very soft pounded yammoulded in tiny balls.Top tip okra is a good source of protein andprovides plenty of vitamin C, which the bodyneeds to absorb iron efficiently. Its high fibrescontentmakes it a good food for relievingconstipation – and it does so very gently. thisis because the mucilage adds a certain ‘sliminess’to baby’s stools, making them easier topass. Don’t wash okra unless you plan to use itimmediately, or it will turn slimy and start torot very quickly. Store sliced okra in the freezerin a zip lock bag – it’s best eaten on the day ofpurchase but will keep fresh for a few weeks.HEAlTHy TIPs!What to do when you have control of the catering to host your loved ones in a privateor social gathering. Here’s how......l Almost anything fresh is a good start. Better still fresh organic food.l Avoid giving your guests processed food, as it generally contains sugar, salt andsaturated fat.l Grill, steam or bake instead of frying.l Add lots of vegetables to the menu (either hot or cold).l Add lots of dark vegetables when you prepare soup.l For dessert provide fresh fruits or add fruit cocktail to the menu.l Use simple but healthy salad dressings (lemon, vinegar and olive oil).l Add more of oily fish and chicken and less red meat to your menu.l Encourage your guest to get up and dance; a good excuse for them to keep fit as well associalise.“You are what you eat,” goes the well-known saying. If you eat healthy foods, you are morelikely to live longer, fitter and healthier.AFRICAN MEAl PlAN FOR lOsINg WEIgHT( Week 1) 1 Day Sample!DinnerEgusi soup with leangoat meat and lots ofbitter leaf (3 levelcooking spoons)cooked without palmoil. oat meal fufu,millet or elubo (1tennis ball size)1 glass of watersnacks1 handful of cookedgroundnut orroasted, eat withskin on2 garden eggs1 glass of waterguidelines: We advice to only bake, grill or steam and NEVER fry. Reduce salt and sugar intake.Watch your portion sizes by using a smaller plate, divide your plate into 4 and fill it as follows:two quarters vegetable, a quarter meat, fish or alternative protein and a quarter starchy foods.Exercise is vital, a couple of minutes daily. Drink an average of 6 to 8 glasses of water daily.

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch MUSICWATCH May 2013 31AFROHITSIN ASSOCIATION WITHSHEGGzz –All NA SWAGHe’s 17 and seems to havea single aim in mind: totake the world by storm.The online TV presenterturned Afrobeats artisthas just released theheavily anticipated videoto his debut track andyou can definitely tellthere is more to expectfrom this youngun assouth london folk wouldsay. The track itself doeswhat it says on the tin,makes you bubbleand more thanshake a leg. It’s notnecessarily a floorstomping, “Azontountil the paramedicsarrive” type of tune,but it does put you inthat mood to sip away atthe brandy and cokewhile forgetting all of your cares. This is lookingforward to hearing a lot more from this artist.DONAE’O - FIrE(rEMIx) FT MISTASIlvA & FuSE ODG“I bring dem fire,” Donaeo proclaims on his latestclub banging track. And he isn’t kidding. Itwasn’t enough for Mr X to blaze the track. Hebrought Mista silva and Mr Azonto Fuse ODgon the track and it’s nothing short of explosive.using that classic white background studio formatwith more characters than you can shake achewing stick at providing the action by way ofmany an Azonto and what ever else type ofdance move this is a montage to definitelycheck out. so go listen to this and hey, downloadit (it’s available for free so there’s no excuse).AFrObrEAKErSAFrObrEAKErSONES TO WATCHMBRyOThe special one– Mbryo – drops thelong awaited track PA-ROLE. Mbryo has beenat it again, busy in thestudio makingmagic. Parole is anothercertified club bangerfrom the RuggedRecords artist who ismaking big moves inthe music industry atthe moment.TIM gODFREyWe love love love ourAfrobeats here, butSINGlESSTrINGzDefinitely look out for Stringz, realname Michael omoregbee – an upcomingNigerian artist whose latest videoKonji, featuring olamide, was a smashhit. Partnering with such an establishedstar takes this guy to the next level. thevideo itself is a testament to Stringz’slove of hot women and big beats.the 22 year-oldrapper is on thecusp of greatness– 2013 isgoing to be amassive year forhim. Check outhis video or followhim on twitter@IamStringzw w w . a f r o - h i t s . c o mhere’s a shout out to arguablyone of thebiggest gospel artistsin Nigeria today. Timgodfrey, the spectacularEkelebe Master, hasreleased a bignew video for hissingle Gbemisoke.This is agospel video likeNO other, featuringmega starssuch as BankyW, lynxxx,skales, Praiz,Timi Dakolo,yaw, Nana, Ik[Big Brother Host], andthe Xtreme Crew, allshowing us theirAzonto skills. Afrobeatsmeets gospel, thanksto Tim godfrey.TErry Gterry G hasdropped thetrack listingfor his upcomingalbum,Book of Ginjah,a 21track albumdue for releasesoon. Featuringthe hit Loose Control, as wellas the upcoming single Pull Off. thisguy literally never stops – he must beone of Nigeria’s most prolific artistson the scene at the moment. We cannotwait for the new album to gethere. In the meantime, check out hisback catalogue.TOp20No. titleTOp20No. titleAFrObEATSArtist1 Skibo Solid Star2 tonight Burna Boy3 Ghost Mode Phyno4 First of All olamide5 Shake Flavour6 yes/No Banky W7 Somebody Iyanya8 ori Mi Wu Emma Nyra9 Bad Guy P (remix) l.o.Sft. Banky Wq hypnotize Me ft. olu Maintainoliviaw yoyo Seleboboe Malonogede timayar Gat Me high May Dt Cashflow D'Banjy Watch My ting lola RaeGou love Affair terry Gi Beautiful KefeeSuperman (remix) 2Shotzop Bubugaga Mr2Kaya Koleyewon tee SongzThis chart has been compiled by combinedYouTube views and iROKING views & downloadsAFrObrEAKErSArtist1 Azonto Wizkid2 Gobe Davido3 Chinny Baby Flavour4 the Matter Maleek Berry Ft.Wizkid5 Gat Me high May D6 yes/No Banky W7 ligali Dammy Krane FtPasuma8 Fine lady Ft. lynxxxWizkid9 Ur Waist Iyanyaq Fire (Afrobeats DonaeoRemix) Ft MistaSilva & Fuse oDGw Itz ova Ft Snypa tontoe Eziokwu Feat lynxxxIkechukwu, Ill Bliss& Phynor All of you Davidot Watch My ting Go lola Raey Ife Wa Gbona Ft. tiwa Savageleo Wonderu Good Morning Brymoi First of All olamideo tony Montana Naeto C Ft Dbanj(Bad Pass) Remixp Go low Wande Coala All Na Swag SheggzzThis chart is compiled by information fromYouTube.

32 BEAUTYWATCHNIGERIAN WATCHMay 2013Follow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchBy Funmi OdegbamiTHE NATURAL LOOKA late convert to wearing her hair natural, Funmi odegbami saysshe has never felt so beautiful. Here are her top tips for anyoneconsidering taking the same hair care journey…PHOTOGRAPHER: Chuk NobleMAKEUP: MiNK Londonthe topic of hair is such a potentone; it is political, social,cultural, sexual, personal andemotional. If you have ever cancelleda date because you couldn’tget your hair to act right then youknow what I am talking about.I am officially a curly girl, a termused to describe anyone with naturallycurly, kinky curly, wavy or curlyafro hair, and I have been for a littleover a year. I was never a fan of naturalhair, quite the opposite. Ithought that natural hair was unprofessional,boring and definitely notsexy. My decision to go natural wasbased on an interest in naturalbeauty and increased awareness ofthe potential damage that some ofthe products we use can have on ourhealth and wellbeing. What I hadn’tanticipated was just how life changingit would be, and how much ofmyself I would discover at the sametime. Now I am 100% natural andloving it. I have never felt so beautiful!And with the amount of staresand compliments I get about my hairon a daily basis my plan this monthis to help anyone who is thinking ofgoing natural themselves by sharingsome of my top tips.1The Big Chop the transitionfrom relaxed hair for me was notvery painful as I had short hair tobegin with, and I transitioned bywearing weaves and chopping mystraight hair in between weave applications.Alternatively you canchop your hair in one spontaneousswoop. one benefit of transitioningas opposed to a spontaneous chop isthat you get to slowly let go of therelaxer while getting to know yournew hair. While transitioning treatyour hair like silk, you must deepcondition your hair often, be verycareful when using heat on your hairto avoid potential damage and keepyour hair lubricated.2styling your teeny weeny afro(TWA) After the big chop manywomen start their natural hair journeywith a tWA. the tWA shovesyour face into the spotlight, whichcan dredge up a lot of beauty issues.you can combat some of these issuesby hitting the earring store. themagic of shorter hair is that you canpull off all sorts of looks youcouldn’t before. Buy headbands,bows and flowers. I changed myskincare regime and makeup to reflectthe natural me. I found that Icould wear dewy makeup looks andlip gloss galore without the fear ofmy hair sticking to my lips on awindy day. tWAs are very versatileand go with tons of different looks.3Co-washing this is when youwash your hair with conditionerinstead of shampoo. Many conditionershave enough cleansing propertiesto effectively clear awaydebris. this is a great way to retainmoisture and allowsfor more frequentcleansing, as the conditionerdoesn’t stripyour hair of its naturaloils. you’ll be left withsoft, shiny, strongertresses. I use Mizanitrue textures CleansingCream and I havefound that it workswonders on myhair. It is a non-sulphatecleanser andit’s made up of themost naturalproducts available.4Do 30 daysof protectivestyles When youcan’t be botheredwith your hair, protectivestyles are agreat way to giveyour hair a breakfrom styling. Putyour hair in braids,wear a wig or geta weave. Most recently I went for anafro kinky weave using Sleek hairand nobody could tell that itwasn’t my own hair.5Invest in the followingorganic productsyour hair will love you forit. (i) Shea butter, it restoresmoisture and softnessto thirsty tresses fromthe root to the tip; (ii) AloeVera protects your hairfrom heat damage, enhancesshine, it is light andwon’t weigh down yourcurls; (iii) Extra Virgin oliveoil is an emollient that seals andDo’S1. Do a consultationbefore the wedding day2. Apply make-up innatural light3. Use a moisturiser thatwill prepare the skin formake-up4. emphasise the eyes5. Warm up the neck andchest with a dusting ofbronzing powder6. use two shades of blush7. Choose a lipstick that issoftens the hair. you can use it as adeep conditioner.6Exercise Regular exercise is essentialfor healthy hair. It increasesthe oxygen in the bloodcirculating through your bodywhich provides an extra boost ofoxygen to your hair follicles andhelps to accelerate its growth. Exerciseand fuel it well and your hairwill grow, shine and prosper.So there you have it, my top tipsfor gorgeous natural hair.A great resource to have if youare embarking on a natural hair journeyis the book Better Than GoodHair, The Curly Girl Guide To Healthy,one or two shadesbrighter than what youwould normally wear.Pinks, roses and plums aregreat choices for brides8. use a water resistantliner that can withstandtears9. Choose mascara that’swaterproof10. Blend, blend, blendyour make-up. Brushesare necessary but feel freeto use your fingers tofinish blending.DoN’TS11. Do not apply thewrong shade offoundation12. Do not forget to blendfoundation into the neck13. Do not apply a deepcoloured bronzer if youhave really pale skin14. Do not apply blush sothat it leaves visiblestreaks on the cheeks.Blend it carefully15. Do not apply toomuch shine allover the face.It’s notflattering16. Do notuse a lip linerthat is visiblydarker than thelipstick17. Do not over tweezethe eyebrows into thewrong shape for the faceGorgeous Natural Hair by Nikki Walton.It has everything you need toget started on your curly hair journey,from henna treatments, to anatural hair product guide, and variousstyles you can try at home.I wouldlove to hearhow youget on soplease doget intouch.SPRINg WeDDINg MAke-uP Do’S AND DoN’TSIs there any time more perfect fora wedding than spring? It's a time of rebirth andrenewal – a perfect time for the new adventure that amarriage brings. It is also a time where the weather canbe unpredictable. You may have 25 degrees andsunshine, or you may end up with a damp, chilly day.Whatever the weather, you will want your make-up tostand the test and to still look amazing at the end ofthe day.I am here to give you some spring wedding make-uptips on how to keep your make-up looks fresh all day.18. Do not apply toomuch lip gloss that itbleeds around the lips19. Don’t be too serious;it’s only make-up!20. Remember just likeany technique, make-uprequires practice. If youdon’t get it right the firsttime round, don’t stress.PHOTOGRAPHER: Chuk NobleMAKEUP: MiNK London

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch TOWNWATCH May 2013 33ON THE TOWNWith ToniFROM L-R: Breis,Ginger Baker,Afrikan Boy,Dele Sosimi,Shingai ShoniwaSAlUtING thE BlACK PRESIDENtAn astonishing supergroup will cometogether for one night only to payhomage to founding father ofAfrobeat Fela Kuti, and mark the remastering,repackaging and re-releaseof his entire back catalogue by KnittingFactory records.The evening promises to be amemorable mash up with on the onehand Fela’s contemporaries – includingthe legendary drummer GingerBaker and former Fela stalwarts,Tony Allen (drums) and Dele Sosimi(keyboards/arranger) amongst others– jamming with a younger generationof artists who are influenced by thegreat man, such as Blak Twang,Afrikan Boy, BREIS, and ShingaiShoniwa of the Noisettes.The musicians, singers and rapperswill offer their own unique interpretationsof Fela songs in what is one ofthe most hotly anticipated gigs of theyear. Shingai Shoniwa is set to giveher take of Lady.The legendary Cream drummerGinger Baker is known as ‘Rock’s firstsuperstar drummer’, but he is alsonoted for his involvement in Africanand Jazz music. He lived in Nigeriafrom 1970 till 1976 and in 1971recorded a live album with Fela (Felawith Ginger Baker Live!).“I met Fela in the early 60s whenhe used to sit in at the all-nighters atthe Flamingo,” he recalls. “We becamegood friends. When I arrived inNigeria in 1970 I met Fela again – thisled to many musical adventures. Hewas a fantastic fellow, a great friend,I loved his music.“Tony [Allen] was Fela’s drummer/bandleader and we too becamegood friends. I last played with Tonyat the Zildjian Awards in 2008; I’mlooking forward to meeting again.’And that could lead to somethingexplosive as Tony recalls the last timethe two played together; “We joinedto play a 15-minute drum solo. Thisguy can play! And here we are again.I can’t wait!”Saluting the Black President is at the229 Club, Great Portland Street, W1.17 May. Tickets from agmp.ticketabc.comTHEATREGuttedSet on the council estates of southeast London, this is a story of love,family and sordid secrets, toldthrough the eyes of four brothers.When the eldest brother comes outof rehab and embarks on a truthtellingmission he triggers an unstoppablefamily meltdown. In anexplosive 24 hours, years of denialare uncovered... and life will neverbe the same again.theatre Royal Stratford East,Gerry Raffles Square, london,E15 1BN. Until 25 MayFrom £6, Age 16+www.stratfordeast.comto Kill A Mocking BirdHarper Lee’s classic story of life inthe American Deep South as toldthrough the inquiring eyes of achild. Jem and Scout’s idyllic childhoodinnocence is shattered by therealisation that prejudice rules theirtown when their father defends ayoung black man falsely accused ofraping a white woman and the familybecomes a target of gossip andabuse.22 May – 15 June, open AIrtheatre, Regent’s Park, NW1Mon-Sat at 7.45pm; matineesWeds, thurs and Sats; 2.15pm(No matinees on 16,18, 22 or23 May). From £25www.openairtheatre.comThe Bullet CatchA unique theatrical experience exploringthe world of magic, featuringmind-reading, levitation and“the most notorious finale in showbusiness”.the Shed, National theatre,SE1. 21 May-June 1tickets £12-20www.theshed.nationaltheatre.org.ukThe BurialWhen her father dies,Funmi is forced to makesome difficult choices,which are not helped bythe arrival of his twowives from Nigeria… Anew play by award-winningplaywright BolaAgbaje, whose work includesBelong, Off TheEndz and Gone Too Far!.Her latest work seesFunmi caught betweenconflicting beliefs, unwanted guests and estranged families.Funmi is forced to confront her forgotten past and her dead father’sstrange presence with tragi-comic consequences.the Albany, Douglas Way, Deptford, london, SE8 4AG2-11 May, 7.30pm£8-£14www.thealbany.org.ukThe Victorian In The WallA surreal and fantastical story.Power-prams, Grand Design knockthroughs,organic everything. Afamily are rushed to hospital withfestival fatigue. A work-shy writerdiscovers a Victorian man living inthe wall of his flat. Everyone’spretty surprised. Adjustments needto be made.Can the strange visitor unlockhis hopeless career? His flagging relationship?A story buried in thesewalls for over a century? Containsjokes, songs, banging on recyclingand boxes, and a Nigerian.Royal Court theatre Upstairs,Sloane Square, SW116 May-8 June£20; all seats £10 Mondays.www.royalcourttheatre.comPublic EnemyWhen Dr Stockmann discoversthat the waters of a new public spaare toxic, he expects gratitude andglory. But his revelation makes himthe most hated man in town. Howfar will a man go to stand up for thetruth?young Vic, the Cut, Waterloo,SE1. 4 May-8 June. From £10www.youngvic.orgRaceA hotel room in disarray – lampsbroken, cigarette butts, liquor bottles– a red sequin dress, and a manaccused of rape... The accused iswhite, the accuser black. Twolawyers, one black and one white,must uncover and sift the facts ofthe case. Is the man guilty? And, irrespectiveof that, can his case bewon? Plawright David Mamet, whogave us the sensational GlengarryGlenross, has said of the play the"theme is race and the lies we telleach other on the subject."hampstead theatre, Eton Avenue,Swiss Cottage, NW323 May-29 June. From £14.50www.hampsteadtheatre.comLand RushCan the world feed itself? When the food systembegan falling apart in 2008, rich countriesstarted buying up and leasing fertile tracks ofthe developing world. In 2009 alone, nearly 60million hectares – an area the size of France -was purchased or leased in Africa. In LandRush directors Hugo Berkeley and osvaldeLewat look at the situation in Mali where 75%of the population are farmers, but rich, landhungrynations like China and Saudi Arabia areleasing land in order to turn large areas intoagribusiness farms. American sugar developerMima Nedelcovych’s wants to deliver changethrough his ambitious scheme, Sosumar. unlikesome of his competitors he considers the involvementof the local communities as key tothe project’s success. However, many in thecommunity remain unconvinced and see theplantation as nothing short of a neo-colonialoutpost. As Mali experiences a military coup,the developers are scared off – but can Mali’sfarmers combat food shortages and escapepoverty on their own terms? The screening willbe followed by a panel debate.Birkbeck Cinema, 43 Gordon Square, Birkbeck,london, WC1h 0PDthu 6 Jun, 6pmFREECafe and African RestaurantFamous Tuwo / Amala Abula Spot6 Beckton RoadCanning Town LondonE16 1EWTEL: 0207 476 5591TEL: 0207 476 8808Opening HoursMonday – Thursday11:00am – 11.30pmFriday – Saturday11:00am – 12.30amSunday 11:00 – 10pm272 Barking RoadEast Ham, London E6 3BATel: 0208 5522865Mobile: 07814472757Opening HoursSunday – Saturday12noon – 10pm285 – 287 HeathwayDagenham RM9 5AQTELPHONE: 0208 984 8141Opening hoursSunday – Saturday11:00am – 9pmBringing good food closer to youTasty Authentic West African Flavoursat Affordable Priceswww.squiresrestaurant.co.uk

NIGERIAN WATCH34 TOWNWATCHMay 2013Follow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchthAt’S thE WAy…The annual Covent Garden May Fayre and PuppetFestival celebrates Mr Punch’s 351st birthday. The celebrationswill draw puppeteers from all over the country,as well as folk musicians, dancers, clowns, jugglersand stalls. The location is appropriately close to thespot where Samuel Pepys first sighted Mr Punch on9th May 1662. The day’s events start with a toast toMr Punch and a brass band-led Grand Procession,starting at St Paul’s Church garden. There follows aspecial service with a sermon administered by RevMark Oakley and Mr Punch himself.Sunday 12 MaySt Paul's Covent Garden, Bedford Street, CoventGarden, london, WC2E 9EDBooK A NoRth WESt PASSAGE to AFRICAAFRICA OYÉ: Zongzing AllstarsKaya FestivalHeld near Bangor in Wales,this two-day festival offersan assortment of African, Jamaican,Caribbean andWorld music flavours alongwith a diverse range ofworkshops, food stalls andfestival activities for thewhole family. A bargain inthe beautiful valleys.Vaynol Estate, Bangor,Gwynedd, ll57 4BP25-26 May. From £35. Under14s FREEwww.kayafestival.co.ukAfrica OyéStarting out as a series ofsmall gigs in Liverpool’s citycentre in 1992, Africa oyéhas gone from strength-tostrength,and has evolvedinto the foremost celebrationof African andCaribbean music and culturein the uk. In addition tomusic, the festival featuresstalls of arts & crafts, foodand drink from around theworld as well as children’sentertainment. Head to theoyé Active Zone for dance,drumming and percussionworkshops, capoeira performances,holistic therapiesand much more.Review Field, Sefton Park,liverpool. 22-23 Jun, 12.30-9.30pm. FREEwww.africaoye.comKAYA FESTIVAL:(From Top) AfrikaBambaataa and BatchGueyeFOR CHILDRENTiddler & Other Terrific TalesUnder the sea, out on the farmand into the jungle, these terrifictales are woven together with livemusic, puppetry and a whole hostof colourful characters from JuliaDonaldson’s best-loved books:Tiddler, Monkey Puzzle, TheSmartest Giant in Town and ASquash and a Squeeze. Funkymoves, toe tapping tunes and gigglesare guaranteed!For children aged 3+ what betterway to let children experience aWest End Theatre.Wyndhams theatre, CharingCross Road, WC2. 4 May only(three shows, 11am, 1pm,2.30pm). From £11www.delfontmackintosh.co.ukHue BoyHue Boy has a problem that everyone istalking about... he is small and doesn’t seemto be growing. His family and the villagers allhave their opinion on what he should do andhis school friends tease him. until one dayHue Boy understands what it is to be talldespite his height. With a vibrant set, originalsoundscape and visual movement style, theshow is set in a beautiful environment undera magical giant parasol for a uniqueinteractive experience.the show will tour the UK including Nottingham,Cambridge, leeds, york, Perthand various london locations.Until 15 June 2013 . From £7Age 3+http://tutti-frutti.org.uk/show/hue-boyCharlie and the ChocolateFactory – the New MusicalIt was only a matter of time andhere it is... Charlie and the ChocolateFactor - the New Musical.Roald Dahl’s classic bought to lifeby under the watchful eye of samMendes – who directed Skyfalland American Beauty – and featuresthe ingenious stagecraft ofthe best currently working in thebusiness called show.The wonder of the originalstory that has captivated the worldfor almost 50 years is brought tolife with music by Marc Shaiman,and lyrics by Scott Wittman andMarc Shaiman (Grammy winnersfor Hairspray), a book by awardwinningplaywright and adaptorDavid Greig (The Bacchae; TintinIn Tibet), set and costume designsby Mark Thompson (MammaMia!; One Man, Two Guvnors) andchoreography by Peter Darling(Billy Elliot The Musical; MatildaThe Musical).The mysterious Willy Wonka isopening his Chocolate Factory forjust one day, and for CharlieBucket it promisesto be a mouth-wateringchance tofeast his eyes onsweets beyond hiswildest imagination.Previews from18 May, opens11 June. theatreRoyal Drurylane, CatherineStreet, WC2.From £25www.charlieandthechocolatefactory.com/The Elephant’sBridesmaidA magical musicalabout weddings,wombats and theloveliest elephantthe world has everknown. JoinNessie the Elephantand her animalfriends andhelp them as theygo in search of anoutfit fancyenough (and largeenough) to makeher the forest’s most beautifulbridesmaid.Greenwich theatre, Croomshill, london, SE10 8ESSun 12 May, 2.30pmFrom £7.50 | Age 3+www.greenwichtheatre.org.ukChris & PuiCBeebies favourite double act isbringing songs, rhymes, comedysketches and lots of joining in forall the family. See Old MacDonald,Incy, Humpty, the Duke ofYork, King Cole and – “oh mywoolly word” – Little Bo Peep andmany other of your favourite characterslive on stage.the Broadway theatre, CatfordBroadway, london, SE64RU. Sun 19 May, 1pm & 4pm.From £10www.broadwaytheatre.org.ukARTAfrica NowBonhams’ Africa Now auctionfeatures African art created byartists from a multitude of cultures,reflecting the complex heritageof our continent. Itemsinclude the very best of post-warand contemporary art in variousmedia, including painting, sculptureand drawing.Bonhams, 101 New BondStreet, london, W1S 1SR22 Maywww.bonhams.comYinka Shonibare MBE: FAB-RIC-ATIONTaking place in three of YSP’s indoorgalleries and the open air,FABRIC–ATION features over 30vibrant works from the period2002-2013 including sculpture,film, photography, painting andcollage, with many works never beforeseen in the UK.FABRIC–ATION is a uniqueopportunity for audiences to traceShonibare’s creative developmentover the past decade at a timewhen he is increasingly active increating work for public space.yorkshire Sculpture Park,West Bretton, Wakefield, WF44lG. Until 1 Sep. FREEwww.ysp.co.ukAfro Hair and Beauty 2013Make the most of the bank holiday with this twodayextravaganza, featuring top-selling namebrands that will be showcasing and unveiling thelatest haircare ranges, wet products, electricals,accessories and much more. Celebrity stylists,award-winning hairdressers and top beauticianswill be on standby to offer the very best trendadvice all tailored for you. You can also enjoy anarray of live demos, catwalk shows, celebrityguest appearances and amazing one-off showdiscounts, exclusive to Afro Hair & Beauty Live.Business Design Centre, 52 Upper Street, Islington,london, N1 0hQ26-27 MayFrom £12www.businessdesigncentre.co.ukMUSEUMSEyeOpener Gallery Tours:Africa at The British MuseumThe diverse cultural life of Africahas been expressed through everydayobjects and unique works ofart since ancient times. The Museum’scollection of over 200,000African items encompasses archaeologicaland contemporarymaterial from across the continent.Highlights on display in Room 25include a magnificent brass headof a Yoruba ruler from Ife in Nigeria,the Tree of Life (a sculpturemade out of guns) and some objectsfrom the Torday collection ofCentral African sculpture, textilesand weaponry.British Museum, Great RussellStreet, london, WC1B 3DGFREEwww.britishmuseum.orgAfrican WorldsThe first permanent exhibition inBritain dedicated to African art andculture, African Worlds celebratesthe continent’s diversity, history andcreativity. It brings together a richmixture of sculpture and decorativearts explained through the voices ofelders, maskers, drummers, diviners,artists, exiles, curators and anthropologists.Objects from acrossAfrica are displayed from Egypt toImages of Black Women Film FestivalNow in its 9th year, the Images of Black Women Film Festivalpromotes films from and about women of African descent – andis an advocate for change in the representation of black womenin film and presenting a global Black experience.The festival launches with the premier of the film Middle ofNowhere, starring the Nigerian Actor David oyelowo – for whichhe was nominated for a best Actor Award at last year’s SundanceFestival. The film itself won best director for Ava Duvernay, thefirst African American to win this award .The festival features a second Nigerian/uSA collaborationcalled Naked Truth – looking at a group of Yoruba women whohave an unconventional way of protesting against multinationaloil companies. The documentary follows the protest led by ememJ.okon.Various venues; tricycle Cinema, Ciné lumière, the Africa Centre,Peckham Plex and theBFI Southbank. May 3-11See website for programme and prices, some events freewww.imageofblackwomen.comZimbabwe, and from African relatedcultures including Brazil andTrinidad. Highlights include masterpiecesof the bronze casters art fromBenin, which depict the arrival ofthe first Europeans to Africa.horniman Museum & Gardens,100 london Road, london,SE23 3PQFREEwww.horniman.ac.ukOTHERBrixton Craft: Africa!An evening where you can try outsome of the arts and crafts fromall over the beautiful continent ofAfrica. Carve and print some geo-

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch TOWNWATCH May 2013 35SINGAloNG At thE ChoRUS FEStIVAlThis year’s Chorus festival opens the Southbank Centre’ssummer-long Festival of Neighbourhood bybringing together thousands of singers across the MayBank Holiday weekend (4-6 May).“Choirs are one of the most powerful and inspirationalexpressions of neighbourhood and community,”explained a spokeswoman, “Bringing peopletogether from all backgrounds to make music.”So, whether you are part of an existing choir, wantto try out joining an instant community of singersthrough a range of workshops, or simply want tocome by and listen, this festival is for you. Encountersingers, workshops, rehearsals, and a wide range ofchoral performances, ringing out from the foyers andoutdoor spaces ascross the Southbank.metric lino patterns; add to yourgrowing tile collection with anAfrican inspired ceramic plaque;draw your design onto some ofour beautiful fabrics with somebatik technique; or make your ownrecycled jewellery from plaitedplastic bags, fabrics and other‘found’ materials! Join us for adrink and peruse African inspiredaccessories from local boutiqueOhema Ohene.Ritzy Picturehouse, Brixtonoval, Coldharbour lane, london,SW2 1JG. Mon 29 May,7pm. FREEwww.picturehouses.co.uk/cinema/Ritzy_Picturehouse/The Morality of China inAfricaA panel debate will mark the bookThe Morality of China in Africa –The Middle Kingdom and TheDark Continent edited by ProfessorStephen Chan from SOAS.With the new Chinese President XiJinping travelling to Tanzania,South Africa and The DemocraticRepublic of Congo on his firststate tour in March 2013, it is clearthat Africa is a major player inChina’s foreign policy. This eventwill ask how important are the tiesbetween the African continent andChina, its largest trading partner,and analyse the ‘moral’ aspects ofJust Joking with Wale Gatesuk celebrity comedian Wale gates hosts the2nd edition of his successful comedy show,which will feature some of thebiggest names on the Africancomedy circuit: gbengaAdeyinka The 1st, Jedi, A-DotComedian, Teju Babyface, SeyiBrown, President obonjoand eddie kadi.Catford Broadway theatre,Catford Broadway,london, SE6 4RUSun 12 May, 7pmFrom £20www.broadwaytheatre.org.ukChinese involvement.Brunei Suite, SoAS, Universityof london, thornhaughStreet, Russell Square, london,WC1h 0xGtue 7 May, 6-8pmFREEwww.royalafricansociety.orgPoor NumbersPoor Numbers: How We Are Misledby African Development Statisticsand What To Do About It will presentthe research findings by assistantProfessor Morten Jerven fromthe Simon Fraser University. Thefirst analysis of the production anduse of African economic developmentstatistics suggests that the datasupplied by national records andstatistical offices are highly unreliable,with figures that substantiallymisstate the actual state of affairs.Wed 8 May, 6-8pmBrunei Suite, as above.MUSIC HIGHLIGHTSDiabel CissokhoRenowned Senegalese musician,Diabel draws on his rich heritageof traditional music, fusing it withinfluences of blues and afro-beat.the Forge, 3-7 DelanceyStreet, Primrose hill, london,NW1 7Nl. 2 May, 7pm.From £9www.forgevenue.orgEach of the three days of the festival begins at10am with a Vocal Warm-Up open to all. You canthen book for a range of vocal workshops dependingon whether you want to commit two hours, a wholeday, or even to join a three-day intensive project tomake and perform the Festival Finale, scheduled forMonday evening. Find out more at www.southbankcentre.co.uk/series/chorusRunning in parallel across the weekend, the LondonCommunity Gospel Choir celebrate their 30thbirthday with a huge Royal Festival Hall concert, aGuinness World record attempt, and a programme ofworkshops for choirs and individuals who sign up tojoin them. Choirs and individuals can find out more at30choirfestival.FreshlygroundFreshlyground is a seven-pieceband made up of diverse musiciansfrom South Africa, Mozambiqueand Zimbabwe, fronted bythe dynamic Zolani Mahola. Theband weaves a musical magic thatis highly infectious and undeniablygroovy.the Jazz Café, 5 Parkway,Camden town, london, NW14-5 May, 7pm. From £20www.mamacolive.com/thejazzcafeFemi Kuti & The PositiveForceSon of legendary Afrobeat pioneerFela Kuti, Femi brings the thrillof the Lagos Shrine’s ‘SundayJump’ night to KOKO for onenight only. Grammy-nominatedFemi’s powerful saxophonestyle and his mighty stage presencecombined with the funkygrooves and driving horns ofThe Positive Force radiate pure,raw energy.KoKo, 1A Camden highStreet, london, NW1 7JEthu 9 May, 7pm. £22.50www.koko.uk.comAfrica Unite 2013Part of Brighton Fringe, AfricaUnite 2013 is a cross-culturallive music journey from theheart of the African Caribbeandiaspora, promising a tropicalsunshine party for everyone.With live sets from REBELCONTROL, a Roots Reggae &Dance Hall festival favourite,plus Congolese Soukous starsZong Zing All Stars.Komedia, 44-47 GardnerStreet, Brighton, BN1 1UNthu 23 May, 8pm. From £8www.brightonfringe.orgAfrobeat SundaysHosted by Choice FM radio presenterDJ Abrantee, Afrobeat Sundaysfeatures two excitingheadliners: Ghanaian Afrobeatssuperstars D Black Oh Vera andJoey B Strawberry Ginger plus thevery best of Team Afrobeats UK.Indigo2, Millennium Way,Greenwich, SE10 0DxHArrIET OGbEIDE’SENTErTAINMENT GISTTwitter: @Harriet_NWDON’T WAIT up, DArlING; I’M juST pOppING OuT (TOMArry My MISTrESS!)It was just like a scene from a Nollywoodmovie. Guests at actor Solomon Akiyesi’swedding were left reeling – when his pregnantwife turned up. It seems Solomon wasset to wed his mistress Uloma Agwu at theovercomers Church in lagos, until his wifelillian Akiyesi arrived, accompanied by familyand friends to prove she was still married to Solomon. Solomon’s family and Nollywood colleagueswere absent from the wedding except for movie producer lancelot Imasuen (The Governor).Reports from those present say the wife gave him a piece of her mind as Mr Imasuenwas aware that she was still married to Solomon. It is also reported that lillian, the dutiful wife,helped her husband pack his suitcase, after her told her he was going to lagos for business.And he called her a day before he was to marry his mistress to profess his love for her.In a youtube video uploaded by overcomers Church, Church founder Bishop N.E Moses saidthat Solomon Akiyesi is not a member of the Church. he stated that Solomon’s actions broughtdisgrace to the church, his wife and Ms Agwu. Moses claimed he asked Solomon if he was marriedto which he answered no, but he admitted he was previously married.THrEE CHEErS FOr CHIWETElIt’s turning out to be a great year for actor Chiwetel Ejiofor. Notonly did he star in the critically acclaimed BBC drama Dancing OnThe Edge, but two movies in which he has leading roles are setfor release this year. First up is Half Of A Yellow Sun, based onChimamanda Ngozi Adichie's award winning novel of the samename, and directed by Biyi Bandele, which is set to premier atthe Cannes Film festival. the second is twelve years A Slave,which is based on the remarkable autobiography of SolomonNorthup; a free man in pre-civil war New york who was kidnappedand sold into slavery in the deep south. It is set to be releasedon Boxing Day.Sun 26 May, 9pm-4am.From £10www.theo2.co.ukIyanya ‘Kukere’ Live In ConcertThis is Iyanya's official uk Albumlaunch concert. He is loved by all forhis wonderful voice, huge presenceon stage and of course by the ladiesfor his sexy and adorable looks. Thisshow must not be missed.Indigo2, Millennium Way, PeninsulaSquare, london, SE10 0AxSun 9 Jun, 7.30pm. From £25www.theo2.co.ukJazz JamLive jazz jam with local legendBukky Leo and his quartet. Growingup in Lagos, Nigeria, Bukkyhas developed a distinctive style ofjazz and Afrobeat. Players of alllevels and styles are welcome tojoin in, or simply lay back andsoak up the scintillating afro beats,acid jazz and swing vibes.Silver Bullet, 5 Station Place,london, N4 2Dh.Every tue, 8.30pm. FREEwww.thesilverbullet.co.ukLive Jazz MusicA concert featuring smooth Afrojazz, Latin jazz, bossa nova orfunk with keyboards, vocals andpercussion.the Blue Posts, 28 RupertStreet, london Chinatown,london, W1D 6DJEvery Sun, 4pm. FREEwww.taylor-walker.co.uk/pub/blue-posts-st-jamesCLUBSAfrospotAfrospot is a night playing thebest in Afro, reggae, dub andfolkloric. Hosted by KodjoviKush and The Afrospot All-Stars.Passing Clouds, 1 RichmondStreet, london, E8 4AA.Every last Sat of monthwww.passingclouds.orgPhat ThursdaysFeaturing hip hop, RnB, bashment,funky, afro beats andmoreliquid & Envy, 233 highStreet, Uxbridge, UB8 1lDEvery thu, 9.30pm-3amFrom £7www.liquidclubs.comFridays at Paradigm BarResident DJs spinning a mix ofR’n’B, afro pop, old skool, hiphop and soca tracks.Paradigm Bar, 78-79 leadenhallStreet, the City, london, EC3A3DhEvery Fri, 9pm-3am2 Dam FunkyFunky vibes, reconnect you to theoriginal energy of the Africa Centre.With DJs 2 Dam Funky andThe Last Poetsthe Silver Bullet, 4-5 StationPlace, Finsbury Park, london,N4 2DhEvery Mon, 7pmFrom £7www.thesilverbullet.co.ukWhat Sundays Were MadeForDJB Veneno Negro, resident DJand guests spinning naija beats.El Penol, 382 Brixton Road,Stockwell, london, SW9 7AWEvery Sun, 8.30pm-3amFrom £5'Oh-Noooooo'A night of diverse nu jazz, brokenbeat, old skool hip hop, Afro beatand breakbeats.Juno Bar, 134-135 Shoreditchhigh Street, Shadwell, london,E1 6JEEvery last thu, 8pmFREEwww.junoshoreditch.co.ukVoodooFunk, soul, disco, Afro, jazz, barrio,hip-hop and reggae with DJRamon Santana.Vibe Bar, 91-95 Brick lane,Whitechapel, london, E1 6QlEvery 2nd Sat, 8pm-1amFrom £4let people knowwhere you’re at sothey know whereit’s at with listingsinNigerian WatchCall 020 8588 9640or emaillistings@nigerianwatch.com

NIGERIAN WATCH36 May 2013LEISUREWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchTAlEs By MOONlIgHTWhy the Bat is Ashamed to be seen in the Daytimethere was once an oldmother sheep who hadseven lambs, and one daythe bat, who was about to makea visit to his father-in-law wholived a long day’s march away,went to the old sheep and askedher to lend him one of heryoung lambs to carry his loadfor him.At first the mother sheep refused,but as one young lambwas anxious to travel and seesomething of the world, andbegged to be allowed to go, atlast she reluctantly consented.So in the morning at daylightthe bat and the lamb set off together,the lamb carrying thebat’s drinking-horn.When they reached half-way,the bat told the lamb to leavethe horn underneath a bambootree. Directly he arrived at thehouse, he sent the lamb back toget the horn. When the lambhad gone the bat’s father-in-lawbrought him food, and the batate it all, leaving nothing for thelamb.When the lamb returned, thebat said to him, “Hullo! Youhave arrived at last I see, butyou are too late for food; it is allfinished.” He then sent the lambback to the tree with the horn,and when the lamb returnedagain it was late, and he wentsupperless to bed.The next day, just before itwas time for food, the bat, whowas very greedy, sent the lamboff as before and ate it all up asecond time. This mean behaviouron the part of the bat wenton for four days, until at last thelamb became quite thin andweak.The bat decided to returnhome the next day, and it wasall the lamb could do to carryhis load. When he got home tohis mother the lamb complainedbitterly of the treatmenthe had received from the bat,and was baa-ing all night, complainingof pains in his inside.The old mother sheep, whowas very fond of her children,determined to be revenged onthe bat for the cruel way he hadstarved her lamb; she thereforedecided to consult the tortoise,who, although very poor, wasconsidered by all people to bethe wisest of all animals.When the old sheep had toldthe whole story to the tortoise,he considered for some time,and then told her that she mightleave the matter entirely to him,and he would take ample revengeon the bat for his crueltreatment of her son.Very soon after this the batthought he would again go tosee his father-in-law, so he wentto the mother sheep again andasked her for one of her sons tocarry his load as before. Thetortoise, who happened to bepresent, told the bat that he wasgoing in that direction, andwould cheerfully carry his loadfor him.They set out on their journeythe following day, and whenthey arrived at the half-wayhalting-place the bat pursuedthe same tactics that he had onthe previous occasion.He told the tortoise to hidehis drinking-horn under thesame tree as the lamb had hiddenit before. This the tortoisedid, but when the bat was notlooking he picked up the drinking-hornagain and hid it in hisbag.When they arrived at thehouse the tortoise hung up thehorn out of sight in the backyard, and then sat down in thehouse. Just before it was timefor food the bat sent the tortoiseto get the drinking-horn, andthe tortoise went outside intothe yard, and waited until heheard that the beating of theboiled yams into foo-foo hadfinished.He then went into the houseand gave the drinking-horn tothe bat, who was so surprisedand angry, that when the foodwas passed he refused to eat anyof it, so the tortoise ate it all.This went on for four days, untilat last the bat became as thin asthe poor little lamb had been onthe previous occasion.At last the bat could standthe pains of his inside no longer,and secretly told his mother-inlawto bring him food when thetortoise was not looking. Hesaid, “I am now going to sleepfor a little, but you can wake meup when the food is ready.”The tortoise, who had beenlistening all the time, being hiddenin a corner out of sight,waited until the bat was fastasleep, and then carried himvery gently into the next roomand placed him on his own bed;he then very softly and quietlytook off the bat’s cloth and coveredhimself in it, and lay downwhere the bat had been.Very soon the bat’s motherin-lawbrought the food andplaced it next to where the batwas supposed to be sleeping,and having pulled his cloth towake him, went away. The tortoisethen got up and ate all thefood.When he had finished hecarried the bat back again, andtook some of the palm-oil andfoo-foo and placed it inside thebat’s lips while he was asleep;then the tortoise went to sleephimself.In the morning when hewoke up the bat was more hungrythan ever, and in a very badtemper, so he sought out hismother-in-law and startedscolding her, and asked her whyshe had not brought his food ashe had told her to do.She replied she had broughthis food, and that he had eatenit; but this the bat denied, andaccused the tortoise of havingeaten the food. The womanthen said she would call thepeople in and they should decidethe matter.But the tortoise slipped outfirst and told the people that thebest way to find out who hadeaten the food was to makeboth the bat and himself rinsetheir mouths out with cleanwater into a basin. This they decidedto do, so the tortoisecleaned his teeth and washedhis mouth out, before returningto the house.When all the people had arrivedthe woman told them howthe bat had abused her, and ashe still maintained stoutly thathe had no food for five days, thepeople said that both he and thetortoise should wash theirmouths out with clean waterinto two clean calabashes.This was done, and at once itcould clearly be seen that thebat had been eating, as therewere distinct traces of the palmoiland foo-foo, which the tortoisehad put inside his lips,floating on the water.When the people saw thisthey decided against the bat,and he was so ashamed that heran away then and there, andhas ever since always hiddenhimself in the bush during thedaytime, so that no one couldsee him, and only comes out atnight to get his food.The next day the tortoise returnedto the mother sheep andtold her what he had done, andthat the bat was for ever disgraced.The old sheep praisedhim very much, and told all herfriends, in consequence ofwhich the reputation of the tortoisefor wisdom was greatly increasedthroughout the wholecountry.Do you recall a favourite Tale by Moonlight? We’d love to printit. Please forward to tales@nigerianwatch.comPUZZLESAnswers and solution on Page 46CROssWORDAcross1 - At a lowtemperature (4)3 - Type of tooth (8)9 - The beginning of theuniverse (3,4)10 - Imbibed (5)11 - Set of rules for government(12)13 - Morals (6)15 - Poor handwriting (6)17 - uFo (6,6)20 - Dull brownish-yellowcolour (5)21 - Malady (7)22 - Fruit tree (8)23 - Primates (4)Down1 - Small bays (8)2 - Church instrument (5)4 - Blocks of metal (6)5 - Not discernible (12)6 - Mechanicalkeyboard (7)7 - Sovereign prince (4)8 - Skilfully prepared refinedfood (5,7)12 - Flower sellers (8)14 - Bag; carrying case (7)16 - Less attractive (6)18 - Inexpensive (5)19 - Read quickly (4)NAIJAkuWORkINgs

Like us on Facebookfacebook.com/NigerianWatchNIGERIAN WATCHRELIGIONWATCH May 2013 37Go forGOLDREV. CRAIG IS A SENIOR PASTORAT CITIZENS OF HEAVEN,LAGOS, NIGERIAGoing for Gold simply meansstriving to be the best.We must go for Gold in everyarea of our lives.You must strive to be the best thisyear in your FAITH and your walkwith God; your FAMILY and your relationships;and your FINANCES, inyour job, career or business.Brethren, I count not myself tohave apprehended: but [this] one thing[I do], forgetting those things which arebehind, and reaching forth unto thosethings which are before, I press towardthe mark for the prize of the high callingof God in Christ Jesus. (Philippians3:13-14.)The Bible likens our Christian walkto a race. So life is a race. Christianityis warfare and not funfair.Our scriptures give us some veryimportant keys to obtaining Gold inthe race of life.FoRGEt thE PAStSometimes we like to really reminisceabout the past, or maybe even begin tocry about certain actions we regret.The Bible says “forget it”.Leave yesterday alone, please, letyesterday remain in the past. Good orbad, LET IT GO!!Isaiah 43:18-19, “Forget the formerthings; do not dwell on the past.“See, I am doing a new thing! Nowit springs up; do you not perceive it? Iam making a way in the desert andstreams in the wasteland.”lIFE IS A RACEWhen athletes are running especiallythe sprints, they don’t look back, becauselooking back is distracting, lookingback slows them down, lookingback makes them lose focus and balance;they may fall and lose the race.Anytime you are tempted to lookback, remember Lot’s wife, she wasturned to a pillar of salt for lookingback. Don’t look back! Stop lookingback!!Looking back is expensive; youcan’t afford to look back.Forget the past hurt, the pastshame, the past losses, the past failures,the past heartbreak, the past disappointment,even the past success andachievements. Something new is aboutto happen in your life, just let go of thePAST.PRESS toWARDS thE MARKThe word PRESS means;l To weigh heavily upon: apply pressurel To urge onward: hasten: he pressedhis horse to go fasterl To push forward or advance withforce, eagerness or haste: the armypressed to reach the river by dawn.The word MARK meansl Something serving as an indicationof position as a landmarkl An object aimed at. Target: to aimat the markl An object or end desired or strivingfor goal.To press towards the mark means topursue your dreams, to pursue yourgoals. There is a common but powerfulidiom that says “make one’s mark”,which means to attain success or fame,to achieve one’s ambition. Putting it ina sentence you’ll hear something likethis; He set out to make his mark as awriter.So you must have a mark to presstowards.What are your goals or dreams thisyear?A dream gives you direction.A dream increases your potential.A dream helps you prioritise.A dream adds value to your work.A dream predicts your future.Pressing towards the mark meansaggressively pursuing your dreams,forcefully, earnestly pursuing yourgoal, pushing forward no matter what.God will release the Grace to obtainyour dreams and achieve yourgoals. Pursue your goals, this is the willof God concerning you.You will succeed, in Jesus’ Name,Amen!CItIZENS oF hEAVEN “thE ARK”Scintilla, Km 20 lekki-Epe Expressway,beside Chevron, lekki, lagos,NigeriaFACEBooK; Citizens-of-heaven-the-Ark-Abuja

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch EDUCATIONWATCH May 2013 39Avoid the ‘summer slide’Before you start booking your family’s summer holiday abroad this year, take sometime to plan how to prevent your child’s summer academic loss. The school holidayin the summer is an exciting time for students. They love the idea of lazy days,to explore and relax from the demands of their academic terms. Camps, sporting activitiesand vacations fill the holidays, but rarely do students actually pick up a book orcomplete an academic assignment. Whilst they may celebrate that school is the furthestthing from their minds, this can impact negatively on their education. Long amounts oftime spent away from academia can cause a learning loss to occur and this loss can bedetrimental to students, particularly those in ethnic minority or low income groups.uNDERsTANDINgACADEMIC lOssSummer academic loss, alsoknown as the ‘summer slide’,describes the amount ofknowledge or skills studentslose during time away fromschool. The longer the holiday,the larger the loss studentsmay face. This typicallyoccurs because students donot have access to, or choosenot to make use of books,reading material, or other academicresources during theirholidays. Throughout theUK, this trend is easilytracked through the assessmentportion of informationmanagement systems. One ofthese systems, SIMS in Education,is operated by over22,000 schools in the UK.The data collected throughSIMS indicates a significantdecrease in assessment scoresof students after summer holidayswhen compared to assessmentscores directlybefore the holidays began.This loss can be detrimentalto a student’s education.ACADEMIC lOss ANDMINORITy sTuDENTsAlthough academic loss canbe debilitating for any student,it is the ethnic minoritystudent that often feels thegreatest impact. Research indicatesthat students frommiddle income families mayaverage up to a one-monthloss of academic content. Incomparison, minority studentsand those in low-incomefamilies may average upto a three-month loss.Additionally, according torecent research conducted bythe University of Tennesseeand the publisher Scholastic,approximately 85% of thereading gap between thesetwo groups can be attributedto this summer learning loss.The summer slide causesstudents in these groups to returnto school in the autumnterm significantly behindtheir peers. As teachers arepreparing to move forward innew curriculum, these studentsare struggling to retaincontent mastered in previousterms. Over time, this gapwidens and widens, leavingminority students at a hugeeducational disadvantage.Learning loss among ethnicminority students andthose in lower-income familiesimpacts more than justthe students. When these studentsconsistently fall behindtheir peers, they face the possibilityof not moving on toquality higher education,which then impacts upon theSCHOOLS OUT: All work and noplay makes for a dull summer, butfinding time to study during thesummer reaps rewardssocial mobility of the student,their immediate family membersand their ethnic group.COMBATINgACADEMIC lOssSeveral proposals to reduce academiclearning loss have beenStudy in the UKat the University iof ChesterMBA£8,950Master of Business AdministrationBA (HoInternational ProgrammeraBA (Hons) £16,950Business AdministrationIFP£6,950International nal Foundation ProgrammeChesterGLOBEEDUCATIONServicesGlobe Education ServicesLondon SE1 9RR,United Kingdomwww.geducation.co.ukww.geContact :Attractive Scholarships Available for AprilApply NowSunday AdedokunAdmissionsMobile (UK):+44 (0)7533949482Direct Line (UK): +44 (0)20 7015 9484Fax (UK): +44 (0)20 7403 1163Email: s.adedokun@geducation.co.ukn.co.uk

40NIGERIAN WATCHMay 2013EDUCATIONWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchTo advertise call 0208 588 9640or email sales@nigerianwatch.comLSBU is holding two events inApril 2013. These are excellentopportunities for you to talkto our academics and supportservices staff.Admissions-on-the spot:our International Office staffwill be able to assess yourqualifications and give youadvice about the best courseto apply for.LSBU is offering £1,000 nationality scholarship to Nigerianstudents.Visit us at LSBU or in your home country!For any enquiries please contact theInternational Office at internat@lsbu.ac.ukor +44(0) 20 7815 6189OPEN EVENTSUKEAS Nigeria UKEducation ExhibitionMonday 29 April (Abuja),Wednesday 1 May (Lagos)Friday 3 May (Enugu)LSBU Postgraduate Eveningfor 2013 EntryWednesday 17 April5pm - 7.30pmVisit lsbu.ac.uk/opendaysto book your placeAre you interested ested in IT? At LSBU we have a number ofcourses that t will help you start your IT career or specialise in aparticular subject area if you already hold an IT qualification: MSc Information Systems Management MSc Information Technology MSc Internet and Database Systems MSc Strategic tegic Information Technology Management MSc Web and Mobile Computing5+ & 4+suggested including overhaulingthe current academic calendarto shorten the summerholiday or transitioning to alonger academic year. However,this top-down solutionappears to be a long way offfrom being realised in schoolsacross the UK. That does notmean though that the summerlearning loss should be ignored.Practical steps can betaken by parents to reduce thesummer slide.l support literacyArguably one of the most importantbuilding blocks of educationis reading. Studiesindicate students have a betterchance at academic andlife-long success with higherliteracy levels. Children needaccess to books and readingmaterials and parents canhelp their children by promotingliteracy. over summer holidays,students can visit locallibraries to access grade levelappropriate activities andbooks entirely free of charge.l Participate in free,funded summer schoolsUp to £50 million of the government‘sPupil Premiumfunds summer school programmesrun by state schoolsfor disadvantaged pupils, tosupport their transition tosecondary schools. A March2013 report commissioned bythe Department for Educationto evaluate the outcomes ofthese state funded summerschool programmes foundthat although only half of thedisadvantaged pupils invitedto a summer school attendedjust once, 94 per cent consideredtheir summer school asuccess and 95 per cent wouldtake part in the programmeagain. however, the reportalso found that although ahigh number of these statesummer schools appeared tobe supporting disadvantagedpupils’ social and emotionalwellbeing in particular, afewer number actually focuseddirectly on improvingpupils’ academic attainment.l Enrol in academic, feepayingsummer schoolsone of the greatest advantagesstudents in minorityethnic and low income groupscan gain is by enrolling in anacademic summer school programmeprovided by a specialistorganisation with aproven track record of deliveringhigh quality supplementaryeducation. Anorganisation with a clearly definedaim of improving educationalattainment will ensurethat students will revisit contentfrom previous academicterms, revise learning andprepare for future academicchallenges. the essential subjectsto prevent academiclearning loss which are readingskills, English and maths,must be offered. Also, 11+and 7+ candidates can be preparedfor their exams. Studentsare typically assessed asthe summer programme beginsto ensure they receivethe correct level of assistance.Real teaching in a live settingensures your child is notmerely plonked down in frontof a computer screen, andsmall classes ensure they receiveindividualised support.When students actively participatein these specialised summerlearning programmes,they begin their next academicterm with little to nolearning loss. Many are evenmoved up to higher setswhen they return to school inthe autumn term.The summer slide can bedisruptive for any student,but it is particularly devastatingfor those in ethnic minorityand low income groups.These children are already atrisk of struggling in educationbut a summer learningloss only widens that gap. Byunderstanding the dangers ofthe summer slide, by followingthe tips to avoid the loss,parents and educators have abetter chance at helping studentsachieve long term academicsuccess.Janet Sherlock BA (Hons)LLb (Hons), is head tutor andProgramme Developer atLeaders are Readers, theaward-winning Saturday andsummer schools.leaders are Readers will beholding a free presentationon their summer school programmeat 11.00am on Saturday,18th May 2013.Call to book: 01992 651 300;www.leadersarereaders.co.uk

,The UK’s Assisted Voluntary Return ServiceLike us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch HEALTHWATCH May 2013 41Actions to remedy sleeplessnessMost people suffer the occasional sleeplessnight and some experience shortperiods of sleep-loss due to stress oranxiety. It is estimated that up to one third ofthe population suffer from insomnia.Sleep problems can be caused by any numberof issues. older adults may find that their sleepcycle has changed. Equally lifestyle habits suchas drinking alcohol and caffeinated drinks cancause people to have difficulty sleeping. thosewith serious illness or who suffer from chronicpain may have trouble falling asleep due to thepain itself or the medicines they are taking.People who suffer from short-term periods ofrestlessness may benefit from over-the-counter(otC) sleep aids, which are either herbal medicinesor antihistamines. Failing that a visit to theGP will be the next stop.some symptoms of insomnial Difficulty falling asleepl Waking up often during the night and havingtrouble getting back to sleepl Waking up too early in the morningl Feeling tired upon wakinghERBAl MEDICINESherbal medicines are usually based on valerian(Valeriana officinalis), which is prepared fromthe roots of the plant and has been shown topossess sedative and anxiolytic effects.the dosage of valerian in otC sleep aidsranges between 45mg-500mg, depending on itscombination with other herbs with known sedativeeffects, such as hops, passion flower andvervain. the highest dose of vervain is found inKalms Night (500mg), which is recommended tobe taken 30 to 60 minutes before bedtime andfor up to four weeks continuously, since treatmenteffects may not be felt immediately.ANtIhIStAMINESAlthough antihistamines are used to treat allergies,one of the side effects is drowsiness. Antihistaminesdiphenhydramine and promethazinehydrochloride both have a sedating effect andare used in Nytol, Nytol one-a-Night andSominex, respectively, with a recommendedmaximum dose of 50mg.As with herbal sleep aids, the efficacy of antihistaminesfor the treatment of mild insomnia isnot properly established. however, it is recommendedthat antihistamines are effective forshort-term use only as the body can develop toleranceto the side effect.SIDE EFFECtS AND INtERACtIoNSValerian has been found to be safe and has minimalside effects, which is considered one of theadvantages of taking herbal preparations.one problem associated with antihistaminesleeping aids is that the sedative effect can carryover into the next morning, owing to their longduration of action. Additional side-effects of antihistamineuse include agitation, headaches, reducedalertness, dizziness and fatigue.Antihistamines can also interact with otherdrugs, particularly alcohol, opioid analgesics andother anxiolytic and hypnotic medicines, to inducefurther sedative effects. For these reasonsantihistamine-based sleep aids should be usedsparingly and only in the short-term.lIFEStylE ADVICEone treatment used for insomnia is cognitivebehavioural therapy, which is a structured programmeto help people identify and replacethoughts or behaviours that cause sleep problemswith habits that promote good sleep. Forsome patients, making lifestyle changes canhelp to resolve any issues with sleep and shouldbe recommended before and while taking anymedicines. these include:l A set wake up and sleep time, even at theweekendsl A bedtime routinel Avoiding heavy meals, caffeine, nicotine andalcohol, at least four hours before bedtimel A cool, quiet bedroom that is free from distractions,such as computers or televisionsl Exercising, but no less than four hours beforebedtime.SNoRINGCauses of snoringl overeatingl lack of exercisel Alcohol consumptionl Smokingl Sleeping positionl Allergyl Nasal stuffinessl Breathing through the mouthl Small or collapsing nostrilsFor some people a snoring partner can be thecause of their difficulty sleeping. Snoring iscaused by a disruption in the airflow across thepassage of the nose. the air passages are surroundedby soft tissue structures, which allowair to flow freely through the oral cavity when aperson is awake.During sleep the structures relax, causing theair passage to narrow, and the air that travelsthrough vibrates the soft tissue to create thesnoring sound. Snoring can originate from thenose, oropharynx or the base of the tongue –apartial blockage in any of these parts causes theturbulence in the air passage.Most treatments for snoring focus on clearingthe blockage in the breathing passage, sosnorers who are overweight are advised to diet(to stop fat from pressing on the throat), stopsmoking (because smoking weakens and clogsthe throat) and to sleep on their side (to preventthe tongue from blocking the throat). AvailableotC treatments include nasal sprays, nasal stripsor nasal dilators, and chin-up strips.the herbal mouth spray Rhynil is made fromEuphrasia officinalis (eyebright) and has antisepticand antibacterial properties, lending itselfwell to countering sinus and nasal passage infectionsby reducing any inflammation in the airwayand improving breathing.Nasal strips, such as Kleerway and BreatheRight are self-adhesive strips fixed onto the outsideof the nose to keep the nostrils open duringsleep. Nasal dilators are flexible plastic devices,which are placed inside the nostrils to keepthem open. By keeping the nostrils open, nasalstrips and nasal dilators allow people to breatheeasily through the nose.For people who are “mouth breathers” chinupstrips can be applied over the chin and lowerjaw, to keep the mouth closed, again to encouragebreathing through the nose. Somni Snoreguard is an oral vestibular shield also designedfor “mouth breathers”. the product shapes tothe person’s mouth and, like chin-up strips, promotesbreathing through the nose. however,this device will clearly not suit people who alsohave trouble breathing through their nose.NIGERIAN WATCHFREEPage 20Page 19NIGERIAN WATCHApril 2013 Issue No 012 MONTHLY To Inspire, Inform and EntertainTATE LAGOSEMBASSYBACKSARTIST’SPLAN FORNIGERIANATIONALMUSEUMOF MODERNARTNameFull Addresstel NoDIAMONDReturn ofthe voicethat sold21m recordsCHINUA ACHEBE16 Nov 1930 – 22 Mar 2013An appreciationof the foundingfather of Africanliterature Page 24Yinka ShonibareMBE to receiveNigeria’s highesthonournigerianwatch.comINSIDENews2 Centenary proposal toscrap the name Nigeria4 Community leaders lobbyMet on frontline cuts6 The Wills Smith and .i.amon the Brixton beatFeatures10 Premier League ismissing a trick in Africa17 Elephant sanctions threat18 Best of Black Presidentand the ‘pen robbery’ prophetLife & Style28 Good food for kids30 Remedies from the clearskin councilBusiness & Property44 Is Lagos se to rivalLondon’s property market?EducationTRIDENTWhy theunit’s closureleaves us allvulnerable39 How to give your kids anOxbridge vocabularySport48 Ian Wright on the uniqueAfCar:The Game showdownThinking of returning to Nigeria?Tofind out more about your options callWE CAN HELP YOU Choices Assisted Voluntary Return ServiceIf you are an asylum seeker, havefree onDiscretionary Leave to Remain or have0808 800 0007nolegal status in the UK, we offer free,confidential advice and information to helpyou decide whether to return.orgotowww.choices-avr.org.ukSUBSCRIBETODAY£22 FOR 1 YEAR£15 FOR 6 MONTHSA MONTHLY NEWSPAPEROUT EVERY LAST FRIDAYOF THE MONTHPost CodeI wish to subscribe to Nigerian Watch o 1 year: £22o 6 Months: £15o I enclose a cheque/Postal order for £ Made Payable to Green World Media limitedPlease make a cheque payable to Green World Media Limitedo Please invoice me/my companyMail to Chartwell House, 292 Hale Lane Edgware Middlesex HA8 8NPNigerian Watch is a FREE newspaper but If you want us to post a copy ofthe paper to any address in the UK there will be a charge for postage.

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Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch TRAVELWATCH May 2013 43LAGOS KANO RAILWAY RE-OPENSthe lagos to Kano railroad isback on track after a four yearshutdown.Completed under Britishrule 100 years ago, the routehelped in the development ofNigeria’s agriculture- and minerals-basedeconomy. But theservice declined soon after independence,partly because ofmismanagement and partlygovernment neglect.By the time it was shutdown in 2009, the number ofannual passenger rail trips inNigeria had fallen to 1.3 million,down from 11.3 million in1963. the drop in goods movedwas even steeper, from 3.3 milliontons to a mere 57,000 tons.But now, with the emphasison diversifying the economyand a particular focus on agriculture,the route is seen as crucialto a renaissance in thenorth of the country.hoW to tAKE thE tRAIN?FRoM WhERE the closest airportto the lagos train terminalis lagos' Murtala MuhammedInternational Airport, about a30-minute drive away. thetrain leaves lagos at noon Friday,a 35-hour trip to Kano. Itreturns to lagos on Monday,though a return flight can bepurchased in Kano at the city'sairport.MoNEy Nigeria's national currencyis the naira, which tradesat around 240 naira to £1.AtMs can be found in lagosand Kano, though not alongthe train’s route. It is better tobring U.S. dollars or euros andexchange them with moneychangersbefore boarding.tICKEtS A ticket for a bed in afirst-class sleep car costs 4,990naira (£20). the sleeper carshave rooms of two beds andfour beds, so consider buyingthe extra beds to have privacyon your journey. A ticket for afirst-class seat costs 2,890 naira(£10). A second-class ticketcosts 1,930 naira (£8), though itwill be overcrowded.DINING there is a canteen andbar car on the train, but it iswise to pack bottles of waterto drink and energy bars to eaton the journey. hawkers surroundthe train at stops, socarry small denominations tobuy drinks and food. Bringtoilet paper and hand sanitiser,as the toilet is rudimentary atbest.WORLDWIDE FLIGHT DEALSNigeria special faresPORT HARCOURT fr £475NAIROBI fr £399TORONTO fr £449NEW YORK fr £375DARESSALAAM fr £449KINSASHA fr £499LAGOS fr £425MANILA fr £429IVORY COAST fr £699ACCRA fr £449Nigerian Railway Corporation hasresumed passenger and haulageservices on the Lagos-Kano routeKENYA fr £449ABIDJAN fr £459ENTEBBE fr £465BANGKOK fr £474KUALALUMPUR fr £479JOHANESBURG fr £495DURBAN fr £499BARBADOS fr £595PHUKET fr £559LUANDA fr £569CAPE TOWN fr £629HARARE fr £585LIMA fr £589LUANDA fr £599TRINIDAD fr £599MAURITIUS fr £599MONTEGO BAY fr £619KINGSTON fr £649AUCKLAND fr £649SYDNEY fr £679CALL FOR MANY MORE DESTINATIONS AND CUSTOMISED TRAVEL PLANSTel: 020 8090 2444 E- britaintravel@london.comFARES ARE SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY AGENTS FOR ATOL HOLDERSCHEAP FLIGHTS-AFRICAGuaranteed- Taxes includedAbidjan 620Abuja 550Accra 460Addis Ababa 470Asmara 690Bamako 655Banjul 499Bangui 730Cairo 315Cape Town 550Conakry 645Dakar 495Dar'Salaam 475Douala 599Dubai 335Durban 649Entebbe 499Freetown 595Gaborone 675Harare 625Jo'Burg 479Kano 560Khartoum 425Kigali 585Kinshasa 585Lagos 450Libreville 445Luanda 775Lusaka 625Maputo 625Mogadishu 895Monrovia 566Nairobi 450Niamey 645Nouakchott 495Port Harcourt 645Sanaa 535Tripoli 245Tunis 185Windhoek 745Hotels, Insurance & Car Hire availableFor Business Class & One Way-Please Call0207 586 1234WWW.goclassic.co.ukAbuja ..........£499Ahmedabad £449Bangkok .....£475Chicago ......£399Colombo.....£469Cape Town £449Delhi............£412Harare .........£498Dhaka..........£410Jo’burg .......£475K’Lumpur....£439Lahore ........£473Manila .........£423Mumbai.......£399New York .... £375Phuket ........£525Prices are including taxes & subject to availabilityFor more destinations call now0207 871 4545 or0800 054 0777Book Online or email info@7-continentstravel.co.ukwww.7-continentstravel.co.ukSydney..........£589Auckland ......£576Kathmandu...£389Banjul ...........£380Singapore.....£487NEW YEAR 2013SPECIAL OFFERSFlights to Lagos, AccraLagos.............£485Accra .............£465Nairobi...........£479Entebbe .........£499Harare............£510rtn inc tax. (Limited seats.)We also do PackageHolidays & Short City BreaksCall for more detailsCALL 0207 871 4545We also do Visa servicesfor Non EU residentsLIBERTY TRAVELATOL/IATA bonded agentsLAGOS, ABUJAPORT HARCOURT, BENINOWERRI & WARRIDeals onVIRGINBRITISH AIRWAYSARIKKLM & AIRFRANCEFares Start from £155 + taxes in Arik0208 673 2222Next to Balham tube/Train Stationliberty_travel@hotmail.comwww.libertytravels.co.ukTo advertise call0208 588 9640or emailsales@nigerianwatch.com

NIGERIAN WATCH44 May 2013PROPERTYWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchBuDgET BOOsT FOR FIRsT-TIME BuyERsIs ‘right to buy Mk II’a brilliant leg up forfirst-time buyers, ora recipe for a secondhousing bubble, asksolumide ontiri-CokerWho says you have to be richto step on to the propertyladder? Not me, especiallywith so many government schemesbuyers can now exploit.Ever since the property boom of2005 – when borrowers were bombardedwith offers of homes requiringas little as 5% and even no deposits –homes in the UK have seen enormousprice increases that have left manywould-be buyers priced out of the market.This was made worse after the collapseof the financial system in late2008, which saw banks and mortgagecompanies scrap lending products thatcaused the property boom.However, today the biggest challengefor buyers is not so much theprice of the property but the difficultyin saving enormous deposits so that alender will approve a loan. This has leftbuyers calling for the government tostep in and help assist Britain’s strugglinggeneration.The Chancellor of ExchequerGeorge Osborne responded to thesecalls when he delivered his budgetspeech to parliament. He said therewas a need for further government interventionwithin the mortgage market,to assist buyers who are unable tomeet the requirements of reluctantmortgage lenders.In his speech Mr Osborne proposedtwo new schemes. First is ‘The NewBuy’ scheme, to allow both first timebuyers and buyers who are already onthe ladder to purchase newly builtproperties with a 5% deposit, only if itis to be used as their main home.The second is the ‘Help To Buy’scheme, a mortgage guarantee, whichis also designed to allow buyers to paya 5% deposit on both new and oldhomes that have a maximum value of£600,000. To qualify for both schemesthe buyer either has to be a UK citizenor someone with the right to remain indefinitelyin the UK.To some this is great news, as thepossibility of owning a home becomesmore realistic. However the ‘Help toBuy’ scheme has already come undercountless criticism from Labourshadow chancellor Ed Balls who suggeststhe scheme will be exploited bythose with an existing home.Yet from where I stand, it is also importantthat the government considerspaying close attention to the numberof properties supplied into the market,because if the supply of mortgagesoutnumbers the supply of homes, thiswill of course create house price inflation.And as many blame our currenteconomic woes on just such a housingbubble, it is something the governmentand UK housing market will want toavoid, especially with economic instabilitystill looming.Nevertheless, from a first-time buyersstandpoint, this £130bn move fromthe government, could well be the lightthey needed after spending years rentingwhile wondering if they will everown their own home.Olumide Onitiri-Coker a property consultantat Avinell.com. For commentsand advice please contactolu@avinell.comA D V E R t o R I A lHave you got guests, friend or family coming over to the UK?Are you looking for shortlet holiday accommodation inLondon?lOOkINg FOR PROPERTy ORACCOMMODATION IN NIgERIA?The journey to plotsandhouses.com began in 2001 when I was offered a plot in VictoriaGarden City, Lekki for N8.5 million – now selling for well over N20m! Althoughinterested, I was keen to find out what else was on offer. I searched online but came upblank. There was clearly a need and the seed was sown.Since then, the idea of an online property hub in Nigeria refused to go away. Finally, in February2011 my partners and I started work on building the site and in July 2012, the site waslaunched.WWW.PlotSANDhoUSES.CoMThe site now has over 150 agents, developers and serviced appointment providers listing hundredsof residential/commercial property & land. Our site is intuitive and allows you to searchusing location, property type, price and more.To keep up to date with the property market in Nigeria, visit us regularly to browse propertiesfor sale/rent, review our property news section and follow our blog.You can also follow us on Facebook or Twitter to be the first to hear of new listings. Alsocheck us out on Pinterest for Décor tips, fantasy homes and more.By Yomi Bello, Managing Director, Plotsandhouses LtdOr.. are you going away and would like to rent your houseor flat out on a shortlet basis?Look no further as Maclawrence property salesand lettings is the answer!Our properties range from studio one beds, two beds,3 bed flats and houses.Give us a call on 07944302664or email lawrence@maclawrence.co.uk

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NIGERIAN WATCH46 May 2013SPORTWATCHFollow us on Twitter@NigerianWatchGOLDEN EAGLETSContinued from page 48 Coast along the way.Nigeria got off to a flying start in the tournamentwith a resounding 6-1 thrashing of Ghana in Marrakeshbut the team then lost 0-1 to Ivory Coast threedays later, conceding an injury time goal. However, theEaglets bounced back with a resounding 7-0 victoryover Congo in their final group game.With qualification for the World Cup now in thebag, the Eaglets face Tunisia in the semi final as theybid to lift the trophy they last won in 2007. Nigeria willnow join Morocco, Tunisia and Ivory Coast as Africa’sfour representatives at the World Cup in the UAE inOctober.Sending out a message to the rest of the world thatthey have the World Cup in their sights, the GoldenEaglets simply blew the Congolese away with one hattrick, one brace and two single goals. Due to takeplace between October 17 and November 8, the WorldCup is a tournament many football analysts are expectingNigeria to win.Nigeria is the most successful nation in the tournament’shistory with three titles and three runner-upspots, followed by Brazil that has also won the titlethrice but has been runner-up twice. Traditionally, theGolden Eaglets has always produced some of Nigeria’sbest players with the likes of Nwankwo Kanu,Celestine Babayaro, Wilson Oruma, KennethOmeruo, Ogenyi Onazi and Mikel Obi all comingthrough its ranks.No doubt Super Eagles coach Stephen Keshi willbe keeping an eye on the team to see which of theyoungsters he could include in his squad. Some of theplayers have already caught the eye and are certain tobe in the sights of several European scouts.WATCH OUT FOR OUR NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCKAcross the English Premiership and Championship,there is a crop of Nigerian youngsterswho are coming through the ranks attheir clubs. they are seen as great prospectsand because of their dual nationality are eligibleto play for both Nigeria and England.hopefully, the Nigerian Football Federationwill not let these immense talents slipthrough its fingers. they are the Mikel andMoses’ of tomorrow:HOPE AkPAN Club ReadingAge 21 Position MidfielderAkpan, 21, is enjoying a good season withReading in the Premier league havingjoined the club from league one side Crawleytown. Born to Nigerian parents andraised in liverpool, he is eligible to play forboth England and Nigeria but has declaredthat his heart lies with the Super Eagles.ROss BARklEy Club EvertonAge 19 Position MidfielderBarkley, 19, came through the Evertonyouth ranks and has represented England atthe Under-16, 17, 19 and 21 levels. Currentlyout on loan to Championship side leedsUnited, Barkley qualifies to represent Nigeriathrough his dad Peter Effanga.JORDON IBE Club liverpoolAge 17 Position WingerJordon Ibe is on course to be introduced tothe liverpool first team after manager BrendanRodgers revealed that he is impressedwith the 17-year old’s performance in theyouth team.Ibe made his national team debut for theEngland Under-18 team last october, in a 2-0 win against Italy.DOMINIC IORFA JNR Club WolvesAge 18 Position CentrebackSon of lobi Stars chairman and formerSuper Eagles winger Dominic Iorfa, DominicJnr was invited to the England Under-18football team for a friendly game againstBelgium in February.MATTHIAs FANIMO Club West HamAge 19 Position MidfielderMatthias Fanimo has played for England atthe U16, U17 and U18 levels. Despite all hisEngland success, the young man has madeit clear that his heart lies with Nigeria andhas already asked to be given the opportunityto feature for the Flying Eagles.Born in lambeth, South East london anddiscovered by the West ham Football Academyat the age of five, Fanimo has appealedto Flying Eagles coach to take him to theU20 World Cup in turkey this year. he saidhe was motivated to don the green-whitegreenafter seeing the likes of Mikel obi andEfe Ambrose play for Nigeria.Treatment t canstop HIV beingpassed on.Butthousands have HIVand don’tknowit.Together testing, treatment and condoms can stop HIV.Order your free postal HIV test or find a clinic:StartsWithMe.org.uk startswithmeuk @startswith_me

Like us on FacebookNIGERIAN WATCHfacebook.com/NigerianWatch SPORTWATCH May 2013 47kEsHI – ‘WE CAN WINCONFEDERATIONs CuPIN BRAzIl’Nigeria coach Stephen Keshi says the African championswill be intent on lifting the ConfederationsCup when they travel to Brazil in June.the Super Eagles beat Burkina Faso 1-0 in the NationsCup final to qualify for the global event for thefirst time. “We will go to Brazil not as tourists butas challengers for the trophy,” Keshi told BBC Sport.Nigeria face tahiti, Uruguay and Spain in Brazil,which will use the event as preparation to host the2014 World Cup.While the West Africans – who are set to arriveback in Nigeria to a heroes’ welcome on tuesday –will compete in Group B, host nation Brazil will takeon Italy, Mexico and Japan in Group A.the global event, which was founded in 1992and is held every four years, has never been won byan African team, with Cameroon’s second-place finishin 2003 the closest the continent has come.But Keshi is confident his side, who won theirthird Nations Cup crown in Johannesburg on Sunday,can fulfil African hopes and go all the way.“the Super Eagles will prove to the rest of theworld that what happened in South Africa wasn’t afluke,” added the former Nigeria captain, who wonthe Nations Cup as a player in 1994.“they will call us dreamers but you don’t go intoa tournament without the strong desire and ambitionto win it. We will represent Africa and not justNigeria.”the former Mali and togo coach also revealedthat when he originally told his squad that they hadevery chance of competing in Brazil in June, theplayers were highly sceptical of their manager’s predictions.“While preparing the team, I had my eyes set onBrazil,” he explained. “I was confident we would getthere but my players felt I was drunk or acting likea comedian – now they believe.”the competition also provides striker EmmanuelEmenike with a chance to shine again on the higheststage. the joint-top scorer from the Nations Cupmissed Sunday’s final through injury but revealedthat Keshi offered him consolation at the time witha prediction.“the coach told me I shouldn’t worry about thefinal – that the guys would win the final – and Ishould wait for the Confederations Cup,” he said.“I think this team is going places.”Meanwhile, young defender Kenneth omeruo –who is on loan at Dutch side Den haag from Europeanchampions Chelsea – is thrilled by the prospectof competing against some of the world’s bestteams.“It’s the biggest tournament that we are goingto play, so I am very much looking forward to that,”the 19-year-old told BBC Sport.Back-to-back wins save LondonNigerian RFC from relegationLONDON Nigerian Rugby Football Club(LNRFC) has avoided relegation from theLondon North West Two League with an emphatic27-15 victory over Hammersmith andFulham on April 15.In what has been a hard and gruelling firstseason in the higher league, since winningpromotion last year LNRFC has danced withrelegation. With the bottom two teams to berelegated at the end of the season, staying upwas always going to be a titanic battle but theteam proved up to the task.Going into April, things had looked diceybut the win over Hammersmith and Fulham,NIGERIAN boxer yaqub Kareemfailed to defend his Commonwealthsuper flyweight titleagainst British champion Paul Butlerat the Wembley Arena on April20, after being stopped in the fifthround.Kareem, who won the title in2011 when he beat Ghana's JohnsonCobbinah, in Accra, was totallyoutpunched by the youngBritish champion at Wembley. Inthe bout promoted by Frank Warren,Kareem and Butler entertainedfans with a flurry of neatand precise well-timed punchesbut the Briton simply had toomuch for his opponent.Nick-named the Baby Faced Assassin,Butler from liverpool targetedKareem's body andpunched with speed and precision.Kareem was staggered in thefirst round and completely outboxedover the next three beforebeing badly hurt by a left hook towardsthe end of round four.Coming out for the fifth round,Butler produced a sharp left to theliver that sent Kareem racingaway into the corner. As Kareemcame out trying to recover, the liverpudlianopened up again and asKareem dropped to the canvas,the referee called a halt to thefight having seen enough.this was Kareem's first professionalloss in 10 fights as he isused to blowing his opponentswhich came on the back of a 25-12 victoryover Grasshoppers on April 6, ensured safety.LNRFC now has one more game left againstthe Honourary Artillery Club on April 27,but this is now a formalityYemi Lawal, LNRFC’s marketing manager,said, “There have been a lot of rearrangedmatches because of bad weather butas things stand, we are sitting third from bottomand have one game in hand. We have 37points, while Grasshoppers have played alltheir games and have 33 points and Fullerianshave 25 points with a game in hand, so wehave avoided relegation.”away, with seven of his winsbeing knockouts. he must still bewondering what hit him on thenight as he was made to surrenderhis belt in a rather tame fashion.Postponed several times due toKareem's inability to get a visa,the fight was originally scheduledfor March 8 in liverpool, and thengot moved to April 12 before itwas finally rescheduled for April20. however, after a prolongedbattle supported by the CommonwealthBoxing Council and theNigerian Boxing Board of Control,the high Commission relented.had the British consulate notbacked down and given Kareem avisa, he faced being stripped of histitle and seeing it awarded to Butler.After much wrangling, however,a visa was finally granted andHe added that after the match against theHonourable Artillery Club at the team’shome ground – the Linford Christie stadiumin west London – team members will be goingup to the Tonteira club on Sloane Square,Knightsbridge, to celebrate. Fortunately, theday coincides with the birthday of teammember Olly Cox.With the league season out of the way,LNRFC will now concentrate of a summerof rugby seven tournaments. This will kickoff with the Middlesex Seven event on May4, lasting until July 20 with the SavannahSeven tournament.After that, there will be the highly anticipatedBournemouth Rugby Tournament takingplace between the 24th and 26th of July.Adding that LNRFC has a rich tradition inseven-a-side rugby, Mr Lawal pointed outthat the team looks forward to all these tournamentsand is hoping to do very well inthem.l Meanwhile, Joe Mbu, a former Wasps andNigerian national team rugby player, who ispart of the LNRFC team set-up, has justcompleted a 1,200 mile charity run from thenorth of Scotland to Plymouth. He is aimingto raise money for the Joedy Memorial Hospitalin Cross Rivers State.Mr Lawal said: “Joe is an architect ofNigerian rugby and has the full support ofLondon Nigerian on his exceptional endeavour.”KAREEM LOSES TAMELY AT WEMBLEYPUZZlE SolUtIoNSKareem breezed into the UK forthe bout.In the run-up to the fight, Kareemweighed in at eight stonetwo pounds, while Butler weighedin at eight stones two-and-a-halfpounds. Prior to the fight, Butlersaid he was confident of winningbecause Kareem had not been facingquality opposition in Nigeria.Butler said: “he’s had 13 fightsand won the last 10 with sevenknockouts, so he can punch. however,I’ve had a look at his recordand he’s not been boxing to agood standard over there as someof the kids he’s fought had 50/50records.”Kareem has since returned toNigeria where he will consider hisnext course of action after recoveringfrom the rigours of the fight.It is not yet clear if there will be arematch with Butler any timesoon.

48Like us on NIGERIAN Facebook WATCHSPORTfacebook.com/NigerianWatchMay 2013WATCHMay 2013GLORY DAYS RETURN ASNIGERIAN FOOTBALL GETSTHE WINNING HABITnigerianwatch.comINSIDEKESHIPREDICTSWE‘LL WININ BRAZILNIGERIA’s Golden Eaglets have qualifiedfor the U17 World Cup – due to take placein the United Arab Emirates (UAE) inOctober this year – by reaching the lastfour of the ongoing African continentalchampionship.Under the qualification guidelines, Africa’s top four teams atthe tournament qualify for the World Cup and the Golden Eagletshave made their way into the semi-finals by topping their group.Emphatic victories over Ghana and Congo enabled the Eagletsto qualify in style despite a slip-up against Ivory Turn to page 46WORLD BEATERS?All in One £39Unlimited calls to NigeriaUnlimited UKCalls, Texts & 3G DataTo buy: dial *139*39200# or text 39200 to 3535Valid for 30 daysFor your FREE Lycamobile SIM visit www.lycamobile.co.uk or call 020 7132 0322Buy and top up online or in over 115,000 storesCustomers may not be able to use Electronic Top-Up at all locations where e the top-up logo appearsLycamobile All in One Bundle (‘the offer’) fer’) allowances are for calls and texts from the UK to standard d UK landline (starting 01,02 or 03) and to other UK mobile numbers, to standard international national landline and mobile numbers, and for mobile internet net usage in the UK. Other usage will be charged at standard d rates. Unlimited usage issubject to a fair usage of 3000 minutes/texts/MB per month per SIM. Usage in excess of your fair usage allowance will be charged at standard rates. Allowances are valid for 30 days from the date of purchase. Calls are rounded up to the nearest est minute for the purpose of calculating remaining allowances. A customer may haveonly one offer on their account and may not buy another during the 30 day validity period. Any remaining allowance after 30 days will not be carried over into the next 30 day period should the customer renew their bundle. Lycamobile reserves the right toreplace or amend the offer or these Terms & Conditions or towithdraw theoffer at any time on reasonable notice. Note that promotional credit (credit which Lycamobile has given to customers for free) cannot be used towards purchasing a bundle. The offer fer is for non-commercial, cial, private, personal use only - Lycamobile reserves the right to withdraw or suspend the offer or to disconnect you if we suspectthat offer fer is being used for commercial cial purposes, for conferencing, encing, or if it is not being used in a handset (in a SIM box for example), or if it is being used for tethering. Promotional period: the offer fer is valid from 4th April 2013 until 31st May 2013. These Terms & Conditions are valid as of 4th April 2013.LM_UK_Nigeria_259x159.indd 1 23/04/2013 12:46