ACCOMPLISH MAGAZINE AUGUST 2023

CCOMPLISH
M A G A Z I N E
AUGUST 2023
World’s Most
Expensive
Wine
travel
Top 10
Location In
Nigeria To
Visit
WHAT ARE
SOME OF
THE MIND
BLOWING
FACTS THAT
YOU HAVE
EVER COME
ACROSS?
10
WAYS OF
WINNING IN
A CAPTURED
ECONOMY
Dissecting
President
Bola Tinubu’s
Unforgettable
Campaign
Moments
of Agbado,
Cassava
& Garri
Jim Ovia
Making Waves In The World
Accomplish Magazine 1

contents
Cover
8 JIM OVIA PROFILE
14 JIM OVIA IN HIS OWN WORDS
16 JIM OVIA PHOTOS
18 The Success Story Of
EBENEZER Onyeagwu - MD
ZENITH BANK
hEALTH
50 THE ADVANTAGES OF ADDING
GARLIC TO YOUR DIET
52 THE HEALTH BENEFITS OF
SNAIL SHELLS
48 Remarkable Benefits of
Drinking Water Early in
the Morning
8
REPORTAGE
20 FEATURE & ANALYSIS 28
THE INCUBATOR SERIES
58
TRAVEL & LEISURE
56
FOOD & WINE
2
Accomplish Magazine

32 42 44
INTERVIEW GRAND DESIGN ARTS & THE MASTERS
From The Editor
Hello distinguished readers! On
behalf of the entire team that
worked assiduously on this
project across continents, I
introduce a brand-new informationpool
for your reading pleasure and
libraries. Indeed, after a period of
planning, gathering ingredients and
doing the cooking, it’s time to serve you
“ACCOMPLISH MAGAZINE”! And, I gladly
add “… with flourish!”
To do a fitting introduction of
“Accomplish Magazine” one needs to
acknowledge how Mrs. Remi Diagbare,
the Publisher, invested intentionally to
build and sustain relationships among
writers, reporters, editors and graphic
designers over the years. Her investment
has paid off with a respectable group
of media practitioners helping to deliver
publications that help readers make
enlightened decisions about the issues
of living and well-being.
The primary goal of “Accomplish
Magazine” is to profile and celebrate
the achievements and lifestyle
choices of outstanding leaders and
influencers in business, manufacturing,
agriculture, academia, administration,
entertainment and innovation in
Nigeria, Africa and, indeed, globally.
Besides the Publisher and I, TEAM
ACCOMPLISH is taking off with Harry
Choms, a freelance writer with a
passion for words and a keen eye
for details, an editor, and an avid
tech believer; Adebayo Afolabi - a
passionate business writer with a knack
for translating complex concepts into
accessible content and Damian Ikenna
Ngere, who is a a freelance writer with
keen interest in technology, humanity
and sports. Others are Olayiwola
Ajagbe, a multi-skilled graphics
designer who takes pleasure in going
the extra mile to get results; Tolulope
Akinruli, who writes with the aim of
creating insightful images in the minds
of her reader for maximum wealth and
well-being; and, Monica Efeotor, a social
media consultant and speaker with
proficiency in creating social media
strategies that work.
Talking about the debut edition
of the magazine, we have Jim Ovia
– Making Waves in the World; a
brief but insightful look at the many
attainments of Mr. Jim James Ovia
CFR CON, the Founder of Zenith Bank
Group. There’s also “Opinions of Jim
Ovia” – a compilation of remarkable
quotes made by Jim Ovia. Turning
to the inside pages, you will find the
interesting piece about Dr. Ebenezer
Onyeagwu, the highly accomplished
Group Managing Director/Chief
Executive Officer of Zenith Bank Plc. We
also serve the interview of Mrs. Ibilola
Amao, the amazing woman who has
given woman a respectable standing
in Civil and Engineering practice in
Nigeria’s oil sector, as well as several
lifestyle, enlightenment and well-being
pieces.
With these and other thoughtprovoking
pieces, Team Accomplish
invites you to join us as we proclaim:
“Here we are with Edition One of
“Accomplish Magazine”! We do so,
knowing that ‘Accomplish’ means “…to
do or finish something successfully....”
(dictionary.cambridge.org). For you, our
respectable readers, we will make all
the efforts to bring you information you
can apply to rise to more successful
accomplishments in life. And, together,
we will all finish big things successfully
in our respective endeavours!
Again, welcome to “Accomplish
Magazine”!
Diiyi William-West
Diiyi William-West
Editor
Team
CCOMPLISH
Editor
Diiyi William-West
Contributing
Editor
Harry
Senior
correspondents
Ikenna Ngere
Tolulope Akinruli
Adebayo Afolabi
Head of design /
web manager
Olayiwola ajagbe
Graphic
designer/ social
media handler
Monica efeotor
Marketing
Director
Nnamdi Dan
Anyiam
Business
Development
manager
Imiomozo Dan
Anyiam
Advert/
Marketing
Executive
Tega Diagbare
Editor in chief
Remi Diagbare
For advert enquiries, please contact
Marketing Director,
Imiomozo - 08075499632,
Remmy +44 7404 990166 (Whatspp only)
or email,
accomplish@entrepreneurng.com
@ entrepreneur NG
Our Vision:
To be the go-to publication for information
and inspiration in pursuing life’s
attainments.
Our Mission:
To profile and celebrate the achievements
and lifestyle choices of outstanding leaders
and influencers in business, manufacturing,
agriculture, academia, administration,
entertainment and innovation in Nigeria,
Africa and, indeed, globally.
Disclaimer:
Please note that all photos used in this
special digital edition of the ACCOMPLISH
Magazine were sourced freely online.
We maintains no rights over the images/
photos, while we have tried to give
appropriate credit where due, we are
aware some artistes were not credited.
We remain committed to supporting
intellectual property and creativity.
© 2023 Tegali Communications
Accomplish Magazine 3

AFRICA RISING:
NEWS ROUND-UP
(JANUARY - AUGUST 2023).
In Business, Finance,
Entrepreneur,
Technology And
Politics In Africa
By Damian Ikenna Ngere
In this comprehensive article, we bring you a round-up of all the significant business, finance,
entrepreneur, technology and politics news that has shaped Africa in the first eight months of 2023,
covering the period from January to August.
BUSINESS AND FINANCE NEWS ROUND-UP
w
Ghana faced high-stake debt
talks after IMF’s deal:
Bondholders and other commercial lenders
control 76% of Ghana’s external debt. The Paris
Club, China, and multilateral development
institutions all hold a sizable amount of Ghana’s
debt.
Ghana is also in default, which makes it
more difficult to come to a deal on debt relief.
Bondholders are particularly reluctant to
make any concessions, and debt has become
geopolitically charged.
Since gaining independence, Ghana has
consulted the IMF 17 times, or about every four
years.
w
Zimbabwe’s currency:
Zimbabwe has adopted a number of
currencies, including the US dollar, since
2009 in an effort to combat inflation and
the country’s economic collapse. Harare
returned to using local currency (RTGS)
in 2019. However, the city is currently
plagued by inflation and excessive
interest rates.
Only a small portion of transactions
are carried out in the local currency, as
manufacturers, retailers, and suppliers all
prefer to settle in US dollars.
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Accomplish Magazine

Top African CEOs support
the AfCFTA:
As a means of boosting intra-African
trade, the African Continental Free Trade
Area was established.
Important business figures, financiers,
and policy makers gathered in Abidjan,
recently, to assert that indigenous
manufacturing must surge dramatically if
the union is to reach its full potential.
One of the most profitable industries has
been determined to be agro-processing.
TECHNOLOGY
w
OpenAI Paves the Way for
Ethical AI with New Training
Policies
Since its public introduction in 2022, ChatGPT
has experienced a surge in popularity, prompting
numerous technology companies to integrate
it into their offerings. OpenAI, the organization
behind ChatGPT, has faced considerable
scrutiny, particularly in regard to its utilization of
customer data for training the AI, a practice that
has since been discontinued.
In a CNBC interview, Sam Altman, the CEO
of OpenAI, revealed that the company has
refrained from training AI on user data “for
a considerable period of time.” This decision
was influenced by user feedback, as Altman
explained, “Customers have clearly expressed
their desire for us not to employ their data
in training, and we have adjusted our plans
accordingly.” OpenAI had indeed updated its
terms of service in early March.
Over the past few months, concerns regarding
privacy have arisen surrounding ChatGPT and
similar services. Users have been cautioned
against sharing sensitive information with AI
chatbots due to uncertainties surrounding data
usage.
The Writers Guild of America (WGA) aims to
halt the use of their scripts in training AI systems
for film and TV writing due to the ongoing Writers
Strike.
In other noteworthy developments related
to ChatGPT, OpenAI has collaborated with
Salesforce to create Slack GPT, an AI chatbot
seamlessly integrated into the Slack app. Its
capabilities include meeting summarization and
message editing. Additionally, a union comprising
150 African moderators for ChatGPT (along with
other AI services) has been recently established.
Liquid Dataport and Angola Telecom have
opened a new fibre route between Angola and
Johannesburg, South Africa, via DRC, Zambia and
Zimbabwe.
Liquid’s existing 110,000-kilometre network will
be significantly expanded with the inclusion of
this route, giving its rural customers access to
high-speed internet at a reasonable price.
Due to this investment by Liquid Dataport
and Angola Telecom, businesses and individuals
in Angola now have access to high-speed
connectivity, which has a number of benefits and
promotes direct commercial channels. Angola,
the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DR
Congo), Zimbabwe, Zambia, and South Africa are
all passed through on this route.
Accomplish Magazine 5

POLITICS
Kenya’s
Government
Begins Talks with
Opposition After
Wave of Protests.
Following a wave of
violent protests over the
country’s high cost of living
and demands for electoral
reforms, Kenya’s government
and opposition began new
negotiations on Wednesday,
9th August to try to end their
ongoing political dispute.
Since March, veteran
opposition leader, Raila
Odinga, has organized ten
days of protests, most of
which have been marred by
violent run-ins with the law,
to call for an audit of the
election that put President
William Ruto in office.
The unrest in one
of East Africa’s most
stable democracies has
alarmed both domestic
and international viewers,
prompting calls for mediation
to break the deadlock.
Ethiopian Army Advances in Amhara
According to residents questioned by AFP, the Ethiopian
army was reclaiming territory against militias in the Amhara
area on Wednesday, 9th August, after the local authority
announced a restoration to “relative peace” on Tuesday,
8th August.
Ethiopian Airlines announced on Thursday, 10th
Augustthat it would resume flights to the regional capitals
of Bahir Dar and Gondar. The other two airports, Lalibela
and Dessie, are still closed.
Amhara, a province in northern Ethiopia, has been
declared a state of emergency since Friday, 4th
Augustowing to violent conflicts, just nine months after the
end of a terrible conflict in neighbouring Tigray.
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Accomplish Magazine

ENTREPRENEUR
South African’s Johann
Rupert worth over R216
billion ($11.9 billion):
South Africa’s Johann Rupert overtook
Nigeria’s Aliko Dangote to become Africa’s
richest man in June 2023 with a net worth of
R216 billion ($11.9 billion).
The Real-Time Billionaires List published
by Forbes placed Rupert as the 145th
richest person in the world. Dangote is
rated 170th with a net worth of R196 billion
($10.8 billion).
Due to the increase in the share price
of his luxury goods company, Richemont,
Rupert’s wealth increased by R40 billion in
2023.
Since the company released positive
results in May 2023, Richemont’s share price
has increased 33.21%.
Visit
www.entrepreneurng.com
Entrepreneurng.com is a News feature platform that profiles the
success stories of those who create enterprises.
It also showcases Government policies, business and economic
analysis, the skills needed and opportunities available to start and
grow businesses.
Accomplish Magazine 7

REPORTAGE
8
Accomplish Magazine

A Visionary Leader
Making Waves in
Banking and Beyond
Jim Ovia
By Adebayo Afolabi
When it comes to influential figures in the banking
industry, few names shine as brightly as Jim Ovia. As
the former CEO, Managing Director, and Founder of
Zenith Bank Plc, Ovia has left an indelible mark on
Nigeria’s financial landscape. However, his impact extends far
beyond the realm of banking, making him a visionary leader.
Accomplish Magazine 9

REPORTAGE
“
The rise of Nigerian companies
and their recognition exemplify
the hardworking nature of
people in Africa.
Background & Education
Jim Ovia, born on
November 4, 1951, hails from the
enchanting town of Agbor in
Delta State, Nigeria. Coming
from a humble background,
he experienced the joys and
challenges of growing up in
a close-knit community. As a
young lad, Jim’s curious mind
sparked an early fascination
with the world of business,
igniting a burning desire within
him.
During his formative years,
Jim attended the Ika Grammar
School in Agbor, where he
eagerly soaked up knowledge
like a sponge, driven by an
insatiable thirst for learning.
Education forms the bedrock
of any great mind, and Ovia’s
academic achievements serve
as a testament to his thirst for
knowledge.
With a Master’s degree
in Business Administration
from the University of
Louisiana, Monroe, and a
Bachelor’s degree in Business
Administration from Southern
University, Baton Rouge (both in
the United States of America),
Ovia laid a solid foundation for
his future endeavours. Notably,
he also boasts the distinction
of being an alumnus of Harvard
Business School, where he
undoubtedly sharpened his
strategic acumen.
Family
Jim Ovia is not only a
trail-blazer in the business
world but also a dedicated
family man. He is happily
married to Kay Ovia, an
accomplished individual in
Jim Ovia with his wife Kay
10
Accomplish Magazine

her own right. Kay holds the
position of Chairman, Board
of Directors at Cyberspace
Limited, a renowned software
engineering firm based in
Lagos.
Additionally, she serves
as the Managing Director of
Quantum Markets Limited,
showcasing her exceptional
business acumen. Kay’s
educational background is
equally impressive, as she
graduated from the Enugu
State University of Technology
and holds a Master’s degree
in Business Administration.
Together, Jim and Kay are
blessed with five wonderful
children - Isioma, Zephia, Tito,
Tomi, and Jesse. Tito Ovia is the
co-founder of Helium Health,
and is also a founding member
of the Feminist Coalition, a
prominent advocacy group in
Nigeria dedicated to women’s
rights.
Accomplish Magazine 11

REPORTAGE
Zenith Bank
With unwavering focus
on excellence, Zenith Bank
spread its wings, expanding
its operations to various
nations across the globe.
Undoubtedly, one of Ovia’s
crowning achievements is the
establishment of Zenith Bank,
which has emerged as one of
Nigeria’s largest commercial
banks. As the founder, he
propelled the institution
to great heights, leading
it to become a formidable
player in the financial sector.
Remarkably, even after
stepping down as CEO, Ovia
remains intimately involved
as the chairman and largest
individual shareholder, with a
stake exceeding 9%.
From the vibrant shores
of Ghana to the captivating
beauty of Sierra Leone, and
even the picturesque Gambia,
Zenith Bank established
a formidable presence,
captivating hearts and winning
the trust of customers far and
wide. Not content with limiting
itself to the African continent,
this institution set sail to distant
shores, venturing into the
economic power-houses of the
ever-dynamic United Kingdom.
But Zenith Bank’s ambitions
didn’t stop at conventional
banking alone. It embraced the
spirit of innovation, diversifying
its offerings to cater to a
multitude of financial needs.
Like a versatile maestro, the
bank extended its expertise
to embrace the realms of
insurance, pensions, stock
broking, and investment
banking. With each expansion,
Zenith Bank demonstrated its
commitment to prowviding
comprehensive financial
solutions, transforming the lives
of individuals, businessews, and
communities.
Philosophy
Jim Ovia has built his
philosophy on the foundation
of integrity. In a past
interview, he emphasized the
significance of integrity in
creating a reputable brand
and leveraging innovation.
According to Ovia, integrity
means that your word is your
bond. It involves respecting
corporate governance,
upholding the rule of law, and
honouring contracts.
Even in situations where
a contract may no longer be
favourable, Ovia believes that
it is essential to uphold the
commitment and honour the
agreement. This unwavering
commitment to integrity is
deeply embedded in the
culture of Zenith Bank, and Ovia
believes it should be a guiding
principle for all organizations
seeking to drive innovation.
Business &
Philanthropy
Jim Ovia’s influence extends
beyond the boardroom and
spreads throughout Nigeria. His
philanthropic endeavours set
him apart as a visionary leader.
In 1998, he established
the Jim Ovia Scholars
programme, providing aid to
exceptional students pursuing
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Accomplish Magazine

undergraduate and graduate
studies. Also, the Jim Ovia ICT
Entrepreneurs programme
nurtures the most promising
ideas through funding
opportunities.
Through the Jim Ovia
Foundation, Ovia has funded
1,500 scholarships totalling
an impressive N100 million
($200,000) since 2010. The ripple
effects of Ovia’s philanthropic
efforts will extend far beyond
the realm of academia. The
foundation also supports
IT skills programmes for
marginalized young people
in collaboration with
esteemed partners such as
IBM and Google. Through his
scholarships and support
programmes, he is nurturing
the next generation of leaders,
innovators, and changemakers.
Beyond banking and
philanthropy, Ovia has
made notable strides in
the telecommunications
industry. He founded Visafone
Communications Limited, which
has since been acquired by
MTN, further solidifying his
entrepreneurial prowess.
Net Worth
Jim Ovia has solidified his
position as one of Nigeria’s
wealthiest bankers. According
to Forbes, his estimated net
worth stands at $550 million. In
2014, Jim Ovia emerged as the
34th wealthiest human in Africa.
Beyond his accomplishments in
the financial sector, Jim Ovia’s
interests extend to the realm of
iconic architecture.
He has made significant
contributions to Nigeria’s
hospitality sector through
the development of the Civic
Centre and Aquamarine Boat
Club. With his diverse portfolio
of successful ventures, Jim Ovia
continues to leave an indelible
mark as a prominent figure in
Nigerian business circles.
Honours &
Awards
The impact of Jim Ovia’s
accomplishments has not gone
unnoticed. In recognition of his
exceptional contributions, Ovia
was honoured with the Nigerian
national honour of Commander
of the Order of the Federal
Republic (CFR) in October 2022,
bestowed upon him by former
President, Muhammadu Buhari.
Jim Ovia has also received
a series of accolades in
the form of honourary
doctorate degrees from
esteemed universities. One
such momentous occasion
took place in 2012 when the
University of Benin bestowed
him an honourary doctorate
degree, symbolizing his
remarkable achievements.
To add another feather to
his cap, in September 2018,
Ovia proudly announced
the publication of his book,
“Africa, Rise and Shine.”
Published with Forbes Books,
this illuminating work shares
reflections from a visionary
leader who has witnessed,
first-hand, the transformative
power of determination and
entrepreneurship in Africa.
As we look to the future, we
can only imagine the continued
impact Jim Ovia will have on
the African continent and the
world at large.
Accomplish Magazine 13

REPORTAGE
JIM OVIA IN HIS
OWN WORDS
This collection of opinions from Jim Ovia
was compiled from his interview with CNN’s
Marketplace Africa in 2019
Jim Ovia believes that Africa presents
boundless business opportunities, thanks to
its vast resources and improving education
levels. He sees Africa as a continent that
offers tremendous potential for foreign
investors.
The rise of Nigerian companies and their
recognition exemplify the hardworking
nature of people in Africa.
Jim Ovia revealed that Zenith Bank was
established with an initial capital of N20
million in 1990, which was approximately
equivalent to $5 million at the prevailing
exchange rate of around N4 to a dollar. Fast
forward 20 years later, the shareholders’
funds of Zenith Bank had surged to an
impressive $4 billion. “This kind of returns,
you don’t get it even in God’s own country,
America. You don’t get it in Europe. You don’t
get it in Russia. You can get them in Nigeria.”
Jim Ovia believes that Nigeria presents
significant opportunities for success.
Investing in banking is a great
opportunity in Nigeria.
“Just don’t give up in Nigeria.” Ovia
encourages young people to remain
focused and determined despite the
challenges they may encounter in business,
emphasizing the importance of not giving
up. Ovia advises future startups and
entrepreneurs to be persistent, focused,
honest, and committed to their chosen path.
Manufacturing is considered the
best investment option across the
continent.
Ovia acknowledges that investors
may feel nervous due to the
responsibility of showing good returns
to their stakeholders. He believes it’s
natural to have concerns in business.
“We would build our own roads...
buy power plants... dig boreholes...
BYOI – Bring Your Own Infrastructure
or Build Your Own Infrastructure.”
Ovia highlights the need to overcome
challenges in Nigeria by taking
proactive measures and creating
necessary infrastructure.
According to Ovia, making money
and losing money are both part of the
investment journey, and investors need
to focus on generating good returns
over time rather than avoiding risks
altogether.
Agriculture is also a promising industry for
investment in Africa.
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Accomplish Magazine

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ShmMnd5ZK2c
The next set of opinions from Jim Ovia was compiled
from his interview with African Business in 2017
The Nigerian business
environment demonstrated highly
commendable resilience during the
recession.
Zenith Bank’s strong brand equity and
unwavering customer confidence have
helped its robust performance during the
recession.
The country is pursuing the
diversification of its foreign
exchange earnings with renewed
vigour.
The impact of diversification
policies on the economy will be seen
in the coming years.
Intra-African trade and commerce
continue to blossom, breaking the
dependence on importation.
The gradual improvement in intracontinental
trade is expected to boost
economic expansion and address
unemployment challenges.
Zenith Bank has to be prepared,
at all times, to tackle economic
challenges.
The bank continues to invest
massively in human capital
development and world-class
banking technology.
Zenith Bank’s partnership with Prudential
Plc is designed to explore the massive
insurance potential in Nigeria and across
Africa.
Zenith Bank believes strongly in giving
back to the society and measures its
corporate performance based on impact
on well-being and the environment.
Accomplish Magazine 15

Picture
Stakeholders extol Jim Ovia, as Zenith Bank
names iconic Unilag alumni building in
honour of late Professor Ibidapo-Obe
Jim Ovia holding up his book, Africa Rise
and Shine during its launch in New York
With Former President of Nigeria,
Muhammadu Buhari and other Nigeria’s
business leaders
Style by Zenith Grand opening
Jim Ovia, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo, and Adams Oshiomhole
Wealthy Nigerians Urged To Support Fight
Against Insecurity As Jim Ovia Foundation
Boosts Police Facilities In Agbor
16
Accomplish Magazine

Aliko Dangote, Jim Ovia and Femi Otedola
Nigeria on Growth Trajectory Jim Ovia at the
Deloitte in Dialogue Nigeria Economic Outlook 2019
With King Ebitimi Banigo and fellow
bank chairman, Tony Elumelu
Adebayo afolabi
AUTHOR BIO
I am a passionate business
writer with a knack for
translating complex concepts
into accessible content. With
a keen eye for detail, I deliver
compelling content that
educates, inspires, and drives
positive change in the realm of
finance and business.
Accomplish Magazine 17

The
Success
Story Of
Ebenezer
Onyeagwu
Group GMD of Zenith Bank
18
Accomplish Magazine

By Adebayo afolabi
Dr. Ebenezer
Onyeagwu is a highly
accomplished and
respected figure in
the banking industry,
serving as the Group
Managing Director/
Chief Executive Officer of
Zenith Bank Plc. With over three
decades of experience in the
banking sector, Dr. Onyeagwu
has demonstrated exceptional
leadership skills throughout his
career.
Dr. Onyeagwu’s banking
career took off in 1991 at the
now-defunct Financial Merchant
Bank. He later joined Citizens
International Bank Limited
until 2002, when he made a
significant move to Zenith Bank.
At Zenith Bank, he started as a
senior manager in the internal
control and audit unit. Over the
years, he steadily climbed the
ranks, holding various positions
including Assistant General
Manager, Deputy General
Manager, and eventually
General Manager of the bank
from 2003 to 2005.
During his 17-year tenure
at Zenith Bank, Dr. Onyeagwu
has demonstrated exceptional
leadership skills and contributed
significantly to the bank’s growth.
In 2013, he was appointed as
an Executive Director of the
bank and was entrusted with
overseeing operations in Lagos
and the South-South zones.
He also served on the boards
of Zenith Bank Ghana, Zenith
Pensions Custodian Limited,
Zenith Nominees Limited, and
the African Finance Corporation
(AFC).
His journey began at Auchi
Polytechnic, where he studied
Accounting and obtained his
Ordinary National Diploma (OND)
in 1984 and Higher National
Diploma (HND) subsequently.
During his National Youth Service
Corps (NYSC), he qualified as a
chartered accountant in 1989,
showcasing his early dedication
and commitment to the field.
To further enhance his
knowledge, Dr. Onyeagwu
pursued advanced education
at prestigious institutions.
He earned a post-graduate
diploma from the University
of Oxford in England and
participated in executive-level
programmes at renowned
schools such as Wharton
Business School at the University
of Pennsylvania, Columbia
Business School at Columbia
University, Harvard Business
School at Harvard University,
and Lagos Business School at
the Pan Atlantic University. These
educational pursuits equipped
him with a broad perspective
and a strong foundation in
Business and Finance.
In addition to his academic
accomplishments, Dr. Onyeagwu
has been recognized on
numerous occasions for his
exceptional leadership and
contribution to the banking
industry. The International
Banker 2023 Banking Awards
named him the ‘Best Banking
CEO of the Year in Africa.’ This
prestigious accolade, featured
in the Spring 2023 issue of the
International Banker Magazine,
places Dr. Onyeagwu among the
elite group of individuals and
banks from the Middle East and
Africa.
One notable achievement in
Dr. Onyeagwu’s distinguished
career is the conferment
of a Doctorate Degree in
Business Administration by the
University of Nigeria, Nsukka.
This recognition highlights his
expertise in the field of Business
Administration, further solidifying
his reputation.
His list of awards continues
to grow, reflecting his consistent
excellence in the banking sector.
Notably, he has been honoured
as the Bank CEO of the Year in
multiple years, including 2019
by Champion Newspaper, 2020,
2021, and 2022 by BusinessDay
Newspaper, and 2020 and 2021
at the SERAS awards as CEO
of the Year. In 2022, he was
recognized as the CEO of the
Year by Leadership Newspaper.
These accolades underscore
Dr. Onyeagwu’s exceptional
leadership abilities and his
commitment to driving Zenith
Bank’s success. Under his
guidance, Zenith Bank has
continued to thrive and maintain
its position as a leading financial
institution. Dr. Onyeagwu’s
strategic vision has played a
significant role in the bank’s
impressive performance and
its ability to navigate the everevolving
banking landscape.
Beyond his professional
achievements, Dr. Onyeagwu
is known for his dedication to
corporate social responsibility
and giving back to society. He
actively promotes initiatives that
contribute to the well-being of
the community.
“
One notable
achievement in
Dr. Onyeagwu’s
distinguished
career is the
conferment of
a Doctorate
Degree in
Business
Administration
by the University
of Nigeria,
Nsukka.
Accomplish Magazine 19

Dissecting President
Bola Tinubu’s
Unforgettable
Campaign Moments
of Agbado, Cassava
& Garri
By Harry Choms
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the current
President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,
had captured the attention of Nigerians
with his remarkable campaign moments that
revolved around the significance of corn,
particularly in relation to agbado, cassava,
and garri. This article explores the intriguing
connection between President Tinubu and these
staple food items, shedding light on the impact
they had on his campaign messages, his current
presidency, and the agricultural sector of Nigeria.
The Culinary Significance
of Corn
During his presidential campaign as the
candidate of the All Progressives Congress
(APC), President Tinubu drew attention to the
under-policing issue in Nigeria. He proposed
the recruitment of 50 million youths into the
army to combat insecurity, while highlighting
the importance of locally grown crops such as
Cassava, Corn, and Garri. The mention of corn
in his campaign messages became a recurring
theme, sparking curiosity among the Nigerian
populace.
President Tinubu stated, “We are facing
a scarcity of law enforcement, and we find
ourselves competing with armed robbers and
bandits for the recruitment of unemployed
youths. With 33 percent unemployment, why not
recruit 50 million young people into the army?
They will enjoy our locally grown cassava, corn,
yam, and other crops.” His emphasis on the
consumption of corn and other agricultural
products showcased his commitment to
addressing both the country’s security concerns
and the economic well-being of its citizens.
Tinubu’s Peculiar
Fascination with Corn
President Tinubu’s fascination with corn
became further evident when he criticized former
President Olusegun Obasanjo for allegedly
spending a significant amount of money on
electricity while neglecting to make payment for
a simple roasted corn. This contradiction raised
questions about the specific significance of corn
in Tinubu’s worldview.
In his attempt to clarify his viewpoint,
President Tinubu explained, “They squandered
more than $16 billion, disregarding the fact that
a transmission line acts as a superhighway
for generated power. Yet, they couldn’t even
spare enough for a roasted corn as a token of
appreciation for that electricity.” These remarks
highlighted his belief that even the smallest
gestures, such as enjoying a roasted corn, hold
value and should be recognized.
AGBADOnomics: Elevating
Corn to a Quasi-Field of
Study
20
Accomplish Magazine

FEATURE &
ANALYSIS
AGBADO (CORN)
PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU
CASSAVA
In December 2022, during another campaign
event, President Tinubu introduced the term
“AGBADOnomics,” effectively raising corn to the status
of a quasi-field of study. This term emphasized his
deep-rooted affinity for the “agbado” delicacy and
positioned corn as a vital component of his vision for
Nigeria’s future.
To demonstrate his commitment to corn-related
initiatives, President Tinubu donated 370 bags of
corn flour and ₦500,000 to the Zamfara State Female
Ulamah Association. Senator Kabiru Garba Marafa,
the Coordinator of the Zamfara State Presidential
Campaign Council (ZMPCC), announced and
presented these contributions during a
one-day seminar organized by the Zamfara
State Female Ulamah Association in
collaboration with the Zamfara State Zakkat
and Endowment Board.
Positive Outcomes
in Tinubu’s Electoral
Agenda
The incorporation of corn into President
Tinubu’s electoral agenda has yielded
Accomplish Magazine 21

FEATURE &
ANALYSIS
positive outcomes, particularly in the agricultural
sector. Farmers from all 36 states of the
federation and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT)
have recognized the opportunities presented
by Tinubu’s agricultural plans. The Asiwaju
Farmers Forum, an umbrella organization for
these farmers, has identified various investment
prospects within the cassava and maize value
chains, as proposed by President Tinubu.
Mr. Retson Tedheke, the leader of the Asiwaju
Farmers Forum and national coordinator of
the Nigerian Farmers Group and Cooperative
PRESIDENT BOLA TINUBU
Society (NFGCS), stressed the importance of a
distinct approach to tackle Nigeria’s economic
challenges. He emphasized the need to engage
the largely uneducated population through
accessible avenues, particularly in farming, to
prevent frustration from escalating into violence
with catastrophic consequences.
Retson said, “We must take a straight
forward yet fiercely patriotic approach. Let’s
reason together. Given our largely uneducated
population, our focus should be on easily
attainable opportunities, particularly in farming.
When a population lacks education like ours,
we seek out accessible avenues to engage
many people, even with the aid of machines. It is
crucial to involve our people, especially those in
rural Nigeria, on a significant scale before their
frustration erupts into violence with catastrophic
consequences.”
Nigerians continue to ponder the specific
significance of corn in President Bola Tinubu’s
campaign message. The prominence of corn
in most of his speeches and initiatives has
captured their curiosity, leading to discussions
about the cultural, economic, and political
implications associated with this staple food
item.
From Slips & Speculation
to Victory: Decoding
Tinubu’s Campaign
Blunders & Gaffes
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s political
journey to the presidency was marked by a
series of gaffes and verbal
missteps. These incidents,
often magnified by his
opponents, raised questions
about his suitability for office.
But the question remains,
was Bola Tinubu sick or it was
just a political strategy to
keep his name on everyone’s
lips and his face in everyone’s
eyes?
Allegations
of Illness and
Political Comic
Strip
There were allegations
that President Bola Ahmed
Tinubu’s ‘illness,’ if there
was any, turned him into
a political comic strip.
His seeming unintelligent
speeches, statements, gaffes, and snafus on
critical national issues pointed to the fact that
Tinubu was ill, or so it was claimed.
Tinubu’s Gaffes and
Missteps: A Questionable
Analogy
During an Arewa interactive committee
meeting in Kaduna on climate change, Tinubu
made an unfortunate analogy: “It’s a question
of how do you prevent a church rat from eating
poisoned holy communion.” This statement
raised eyebrows and drew criticism, as it failed
to convey his intended message effectively. And,
there were more like that.
22
Accomplish Magazine

Misinterpretation and
Clarification
Following that Kaduna speech, the APC
Campaign Council, through Bayo Onanuga,
issued a statement to clarify what Tinubu
really meant. According to Onanuga, Tinubu
inadvertently said Governor El-Rufai “turned
a rotten situation” in Kaduna into “a bad
one,” when he meant to say “to a great
one.” The campaign council attributed this
misinterpretation to a mere slip, common among
leaders in political seasons.
Election Manifesto and
Buhari’s Foreign Loans
When unveiling his election manifesto at Aso
Rock in Abuja and defending President Buhari’s
appetite for foreign loans, Tinubu made another
statement that raised concerns. He said, “The
whole of America deserves to be in prison if
loan is a crime.” This remark further fuelled the
perception that Tinubu’s speeches lacked clarity
and coherence.
Opponent’s Slip of Tongue
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, one of
Tinubu’s main opponents, also had his own slip of
the tongue during an interactive session with the
Arewa Joint Committee in Kaduna. Atiku stated,
“This is what the Northerner needs, it doesn’t
need a Yoruba or Igbo candidate, I stand before
you as a Pan-Nigerian of northern origin.” This
slip momentarily shifted the attention away from
Tinubu’s gaffes.
Impact on Tinubu’s
Campaign
Many believe that Tinubu’s tendency to
make gaffes and verbal missteps influenced his
decision to avoid one-on-one interviews. The
fear was that these gaffes could overshadow
the core message of his speeches. Some
critics argued that his opponents strategically
capitalized on these moments to undermine his
credibility, while his supporters emphasized his
track record and experience.
The Health Question
Some speculated that Tinubu’s gaffes were a
consequence of his health, pointing to symptoms
such as slurring, nasal sounding, heavy
breathing, and difficulty with speech rhythm and
movements. The assumption was that Tinubu
was suffering from dysarthria, likely caused by
brain damage or age-related changes. However,
it is unclear whether his health condition played
a significant role in his gaffes or if they were
purely the result of the high-pressure political
environment.
Tinubu’s Gaffes in
Perspective
Ultimately, the impact of Tinubu’s gaffes
and missteps during his campaigns and the
subsequent election outcome rested with the
Nigerian people. As voters cast their ballots, the
controversy surrounding Tinubu’s verbal blunders
served as a reminder of the importance of
choosing a leader who can effectively articulate
and communicate their vision to the nation.
Conclusion: The
Presidency of Bola Ahmed
Tinubu
In the end, Tinubu’s gaffes were viewed
by many as innocent mistakes rather
than deliberate shortcomings. Despite the
controversies surrounding his verbal missteps,
Tinubu emerged as the President of the Federal
Republic of Nigeria. With his presidency now in
motion, the focus has shifted from his gaffes to
the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead
for the nation.
Today, as real governance unfolds, the
Nigerian people no longer see or hear those
gaffes that once dominated discussions. The
country is now looking to Tinubu’s leadership,
policy proposals, and vision for the future as they
embark on this new chapter in Nigerian history.
Harry Choms
AUTHOR BIO
FEATURE &
ANALYSIS
Harry Choms is a freelance
writer with a passion for
words and a keen eye for details,
an editor, and an avid tech believer. His works can
be seen on EntrepreneurNG.com, Imautomator,
Secureblitz, Withinnigeria, Feelgospel, Kemifilani,
and Glamsquad Magazine. He is the Webmaster
and sole owner of Matrismart.com and biowiki.
com.ng.
Accomplish Magazine 23

GLOBAL INFODIGEST
WHAT ARE SOME
OF THE MIND
BLOWING FACTS
THAT YOU HAVE
EVER COME
ACROSS?
By Ivan Mihajlovic
Oh boy, get ready
to have your mind
blown! I’ve come
across so many mindblowing
facts that it’s
hard to pick just a few.
But I’ll give it a shot and
share some of the most
fascinating ones with you.
1
2
Get this: Honey never
spoils!
Archaeologists have
discovered pots of honey in
ancient Egyptian tombs that
are over 3,000 years old and still
perfectly edible. Thanks to its low
water content and acidic pH,
honey creates an inhospitable
environment for bacteria and
other microorganisms to grow.
Talk about nature’s ultimate
preservative!
Ever wonder why
flamingos are pink?
Well, it’s all because of
their diet! Flamingos eat a
lot of shrimp and other small
crustaceans that contain a
pigment called carotenoid.
This pigment gets deposited in
their feathers, giving them that
iconic pink hue. So, next time
you see a flamingo, remember
that it’s all about what they
eat!
24
Accomplish Magazine

3
did you know that
your brain is more
active at night than
during the day?
It might seem
counterintuitive, but while
you’re sleeping, your brain is
hard at work processing and
consolidating information
from the day. So, the next time
someone calls you a night owl,
just tell them you’re maximizing
your brain’s potential!`
Here’s another one for you: time
travel is technically possible!
1. Did you know
that there are
more stars in the
universe than
grains of sand on
all the beaches
on Earth?
Yeah, wrap your head
around that! With an
estimated 100 billion
galaxies out there, each
containing billions of
stars, the numbers are
just mind-boggling. It
really puts things into
perspective, doesn’t it?
5
According to Albert Einstein’s theory of relativity, time
can be stretched or dilated depending on your speed
and gravity. So, if you were to travel near the speed of
light or near a black hole, time would move slower for
you compared to someone back on Earth. Pretty trippy
stuff, right?
4
5. Have you ever heard
of the Baader-Meinhof
phenomenon?
It’s when you learn or notice something
new, and suddenly you start seeing it
everywhere. For example, let’s say you
learn about a rare breed of dog called
the Tibetan Mastiff. Suddenly, you
start noticing Tibetan Mastiffs on TV, in
magazines, and even on the street. It’s like
the universe is playing a cosmic joke on
you!
These mind-blowing facts barely
scratch the surface of all the incredible
things out there. The world is full of wonders
waiting to be explored and understood. So,
keep your curiosity alive and never stop
seeking knowledge!
I hope you found these facts as mindblowing
as I did. Remember to always stay
curious and keep learning!
Editor’s Note: What Are Some Of The
Mind Blowing Facts That You Have Ever
Come Across? by Ivan Mihajlovic was first
published by www.quora.com.
Accomplish Magazine 25

WHY RUSSIAN
ALWAYS ON TO
ALL PROGRAM
CONTESTS
GLOBAL INFODIGEST
By Sergey Monin
How are the Russians
always on top of all the
programming contests (Google
Code Jam, Facebook Hacker
Cup, TopCoder Open, etc.) but
don’t have any tech companies
(almost all of the top tech
companies are in the USA)?
I’ve studied in the same
group with ACM world
champions, so let me shed
some light on this subject.
First of all, they (Russians)
are heavily prepared; they
are not ordinary students.
Universities (in Russia) typically
have a special department,
which specializes ONLY in
solving abstract Olympiad
problems. Studying there is
free, but in order to get in,
you need to win a contest.
Only 1 in 500-1000 students
is accepted and only from
eligible specialities (Math
and Computer Science). The
competition is insane. From
what I’ve seen, they either have
outstanding programming skills
or are Math prodigies.
Second, all teachers are
ex-winners (i.e. they won a few
international contests but
simply outgrew the programme.
Now they teach newbies).
Essentially the same group of
people will win repeatedly.
Finally, universities have
direct benefits from this. During
any convenient opportunity,
they boast by saying “WE WON
A WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP!”
(Read: our university is
better than MIT, Stanford,
and Berkeley combined.)
Additionally, it’s often used
to get financial aid from the
government.
Not surprisingly, with such
selection and training, they win
contests.
Now back to tech
companies …
Why do you think we lack
tech companies (in Russia);
JetBrains, Kaspersky, Dr. Web,
Nginx, for example? Actually,
there are plenty of small and
medium-sized companies in
every city.
Maybe you wanted to ask,
“Why we don’t have giants
such as Google, Microsoft, and
so on?” The answer is simple
- programming skills are not
enough. In order to succeed,
a company needs designers,
managers, competent
leadership, investors, customer
support, and so on.
Finally, “Computer
26
Accomplish Magazine

S ARE
P OF
MING
Science” and “Software
Engineering” are two different
fields. While they can solve
difficult, abstract problems,
their code is often messy
and unreadable. To build
complex systems, you need
to have vision on Software
Architecture and be a team
player.
Editor’s Note: This piece
written by Sergey Monin was
first published by www.quora.
com.
Commonwealth
Scholarship 2023
The Commonwealth
Scholarships scheme
is targeted at students
across the Commonwealth
who might not be able to
afford to go to university
in the UK. Through the
funding of postgraduate
studies across various
types of study, the program
assists in fostering the next
generation of leaders and
innovators.
This award has been
a landmark in the history
of the primary scheme of
scholarship in the United
Kingdom designed to
support British global
development objectives.
It’s designed to bring top
students to UK universities
while also helping to
promote sustainable
development abroad.
Who is eligible?
To be eligible for the
Commonwealth Scholarship,
you must be either a
permanent or citizen of a
Commonwealth country. It
is still possible to apply for
the scholarship if you are an
asylum seeker or a Britishprotected
person.
Additionally, you must
have an undergraduate
honors degree that is
at the very least upper
second-class (2:1). If you
plan to pursue the path of
a Ph.D., then you’ll need an
appropriate master’s level
degree.
In addition, you should be
financially unable to attend
university in the UK without
an award of a scholarship.
Apply Here
https://cscuk.fcdo.gov.
uk/scholarships-filtersearch/
https://worldtitbits.
com/commonwealthscholarship-2023/
Editor’s Note: This
scholarship promotion was
first published in https://
worldtitbits.com/.
Accomplish Magazine 27

THE INCUBATOR
SERIES
10
WAYS OF
WINNING IN A
avoidable tears in our eyes and
the humongous weight on the
minds of majority of us? Yes, of
course!
The hard truth to add here
is that most of the people
grouped as ‘masses’ are
helping those economic
fiends among us to flourish
in their malicious misdeeds
on our economy by actively
supporting them or indifferently
sitting on the fence while those
CAPTURED
ECONOMY
By Diiyi William-West
I
do not pretend or profess to
be an expert in Economics.
I am not, just like most of
my readers. Kudos to the
numerous, well-educated gurus
of Economics. In fact, one of
them – my senior in one of the
country’s unity schools decades
ago – makes me doff my hat for
really discerning and successful
economists.
It is a pleasure (with
admiration) reading or watching
patriotic economists educate
us, the not-so-learned on issues
that pertain to the intricate
field of Economics, because its
impact we experience every
day, everywhere! Looking at
how things are going in Nigeria,
majority of us who possess only
an elementary appreciation of
Economics and its effects on
our lives must rethink our ways!
The studied explanation of
gross domestic product, gross
national product, consumer
price index, gallop inflation,
money supply, balance of
payments, producer price
index, balance of trade, human
development index, better
life index, genuine progress
indicator and so on and so forth
by economisWts among us
must now be taken seriously by
all of us!
Indeed, this is not a season
to overlook the analysis of
discerning economists. Like
they have been doing (I mean
the discerning, patriotic
economists), they will continue
to shed light on how our
economy has been afflicted;
why the afflictions happened
and are happening; when
things got severe (and are
even getting worse); plus who
and who are causing and
benefitting from the afflictions!
Did you ask if some people are
benefitting from the needless
sweat on our brows, the
‘frenemies’ deepened their hidden
cutlery of self-interest in our
commonwealth-pie at local, state
and federal levels of governance!
You may ask me: “Why are
you sounding this way? Well, just
as I was about to complete this
piece, news of yet another hike in
the price of premium motor spirit
(PMS) broke. In Abuja, reliable
media reports said a litre had
climbed to the range of N615 and
N620. In Port Harcourt, a litre hit
28
Accomplish Magazine

etween N590 and N600 and you
can bet that the price hike was
all over the country. I considered
the term that led me to write this
piece again: captured-economy
and it dawned on me that some
supposed compatriots are surely
taking undue advantage of the
hiking of petroleum products’
prices in order to sustain their
membership of the millionaire and
billionaire clubs respectively. And,
you know what? All of those who
take such undue advantage of the
masses, through negative policies
and policy implementation, have
also mastered ways to get most
of the masses to sing their praises,
falsely, in return for a mess of
porridge!
You can imagine how hard I am
trying not to discuss the manner
the subsidy removal was done or
how the students’ loan scheme
is skewed or how electricity
tariff is climbing to the moon.
Haven’t so much been said and
written about them already?
Perhaps, I may still write about
them some time later… At the
centre of my concern is the
timing and approach of these
policies! But, on that strong
desire of members of the
National Assembly to appoint
billions of naira to themselves
as palliatives, I hope to return
soon!
Back to the ways one can
win in our heavily awkward
economic malaise… Our
hardworking and discerning
economists will continue to
reel out the shenanigans that
have so suffocated Nigeria’s
economy, bringing it flailing on
its back with seeming asthmatic
gasps. As they do this, they
‘and we the people’ can
show the deep wounds and
scars etched on our personal
economy by the repeated,
selfish, poverty-inducing
knocks inflicted by our local,
state and national leaders. Yes,
every passing 4-year political
tenure makes us realise how
grievous the damage caused
by a select, conniving few has
frisked much of value from our
commonwealth.
Yes! Nigeria’s economy
is a captured-economy! I
repeat, captured by those few
whom the majority among us
frequently, thoughtlessly entrust
our votes to… Then, on the few
occasions when we all dare to
employ sound judgement with
our votes, some compatriots
in hallowed chambers simply
wear their wigs and dust
up some technical twigs to
puncture our joy!
However, I have good news
even with all the sadness
poured out in this piece… Yes…
Even in a captured-economy,
there is still some hope of
making it out of the povertyladen
rat race. Really! That
brings us to take a look at
a number of steps we can
employ to cash out of the
captured-economy ,employing
legitimate means. Let’s go…
1
STEP ONE
1. The first step is to take
advantage of the mystery
connection between thoughts,
words and action. Who has
achieved anything the world
will marvel at who didn’t first
think about it deeply? Who is
that who achieved enviable
heights who didn’t repeatedly
speak about the great goal
he or she has set? (It is enough
even if most of the great
speaking is inwards.) You just
have to be captivated enough
by your great goal to speak it
forth! Show me anyone who
Accomplish Magazine 29

THE INCUBATOR
SERIES
overturned bleakness and
didn’t take bold, sometimes
crazy actions! So, think up that
world-beater! Speak about it
until every nerve in you gets
attuned to co-operate in
achieving the set goal. And
TAKE CONCRETE, INTENTIONAL
2
STEPS.
STEP TWO
Where is your ideas-book?
You may forget what you think
about because the mind must
keep working on everything
you feed it with. Soon, it loses
firm hold of some of the great
ideas it has held. But, the
pages of that dream-book of
yours will remain caught in the
ideas you laid in them! Get that
book and make it your ‘chief
planning partner’ as you write
down every little or great idea
that comes to you. It could
take days, months or years but
one thing is certain, what you
have taken the pains to write
down, you have already shown
commitment to. The more you
think about it and talk about
it, the capacity to implement it
continues to flourish.
3
STEP THREE
Intentionally develop a
minimum of two-thirds of T.S.E.
(Talents, Skills and Education).
Only one of these may leave
you helpless because the path
leading to you will be narrow.
Any two of them will widen the
path that leads to you and
help you to flourish, meaning
more clients or customers. Of
course, three of them will give
you capacity to flourish and
soar! Let me share this here…
Please, bear with me... It would
take some time to read… I am
among the people, who through
no fault of theirs, arrived at
‘academic graduate level’ quite
late in life. I became a graduate
and qualified for NYSC
exemption document in 2004.
Well, this will not make sense
until you know that I was born
1964! Well, it took so long but I
became a manager and senior
manager of some reputable
companies in Nigeria, applying
this principle. Somehow,
though I had 4 As and some
other credit passes in two
separate General Certificate
Education examinations I sat
for, gaining admission into a
tertiary institution was almost
not going to happen! As
some people would say,
“JAMB jammed me out!”
As frustration began to set
in, one night in 1982, I kept
vigil thinking about my
past and the future. That
vigil ended with a resolve
to invest more time in my
talents, especially writing
and speaking. I also decided
to add value to the skills of
proof-reading and teaching
I had already engaged in.
Later on, I added computing
and photography to my
bag. For my speaking talent,
30
Accomplish Magazine

egan with pointing out how
most of us thought that listening
to or reading stuff about
economics was unnecessary.
However, some of the economic
scars we live with daily have
forced us to learn the hard
way – whether we follow
Economics or not! Your life is
influenced mostly by what gets
into your brain through your
eyes, your ears and your mind.
Remembers, G.I.G.O.? ‘Garbage
in, garbage out’. To illustrate this
sufficiently, I used to refer to a
term: Q.I.Q.O. which is ‘Quality in,
quality out’. I guess comparing
‘garbage in, garbage out’ and
‘quality in, quality out’ makes
the point being made here
clear enough. Fill your brain
with quality physical food and
quality mental food and see
your idea gain new life!
(TO BE CONTINUED).
I decided to add the skills of
MCing, motivational speaking
and seminar speaking. In
the beginning, my speaking
involved motivating my peers,
teaching in a school and
helping out students preparing
for O’Level GCE examinations,
master-of-ceremonies and
disc-jockeying. As the years
went by, after several ‘free
shows’, people began to pay
me for speaking at seminars,
writing, proof-reading and
editing books and magazines,
and photography. So, I made
some progress with ‘T’ and
‘S’. I never gave up on adding
the ‘E’, (formal) education and
it eventually came. Oh yes... I
have benefitted much from
it. But, most of what people
could term achievements in
my life came through intense
‘T’ and ‘S’ of several years. That
I worked and rose through the
ranks to management level in
some reputable companies in
the country may be discussed
in details someday. So, raise
your T.S.E. to new heights!
4
STEP FOUR
Review what you watch,
read or listen to. This piece
Diiyi
William-West
AUTHOR BIO
More fondly known as DDWEST,
he has several years of media
practice experience spanning
magazines, newspapers,
television and radio; laying
emphasis on maintaining
standards in media practice. He
practised and lectured Public
Relations for nearly a decade
before going into leadership
consulting and real estate
consultancy.
Accomplish Magazine 31

INTERVIEW
BREAKING
BARRI
THE INSPIRING JOURNEY
OF MRS. IBILOLA AMAO IN
THE OIL SECTOR
Mrs. Ibilola Amao is a prominent figure
in the oil and gas industry with a
wealth of experience and expertise
spanning several decades. Born and raised in
Nigeria, Mrs. Amao developed keen interest
in the energy sector from a young age. Her
passion for the industry led her to pursue a
career in the oil and gas field, where she has
made significant contributions and achieved
remarkable success, as captioned by
entrepreneurng.com.
After completing her education in Civil
and Structural Engineering from a prestigious
university, Mrs. Amao began her professional
journey in the early 1990s. She joined one of the
leading multi-national oil and gas companies
operating in Nigeria, where she quickly
established herself as a diligent and talented
professional. Her dedication and commitment
to work earned her recognition, and she
steadily climbed the corporate ladder, taking
on increasingly challenging roles.
Throughout her career, Mrs. Amao has
garnered extensive experience in various
aspects of the oil and gas industry. She has
worked in exploration and production, refining
and processing, project management, and
business development, among other areas.
Her deep knowledge of the sector, coupled
with her exceptional leadership skills, has
enabled her to spearhead major projects and
initiatives.
Mrs. Amao’s contributions have not been
limited to her professional endeavours alone.
She has been actively involved in promoting
diversity and inclusion within the industry,
advocating for equal opportunities for women
and under-represented groups. She has
served as a mentor and role model for aspiring
professionals, particularly women, inspiring
them to pursue careers in the oil and gas
sector.
Recognizing her outstanding achievements
and expertise, Mrs. Amao has received
numerous accolades and awards throughout
her career. She has been honoured for her
leadership, technical expertise, and her
contributions to the advancement of the
oil and gas industry. Her work has had a
significant impact on the sector, both in
Nigeria and internationally.
Beyond her professional achievements,
Mrs. Amao is known for her philanthropic
endeavours. She is actively involved in various
charitable initiatives aimed at supporting
education, health care, and community
development. Her passion for giving back
to society underscores her commitment to
making a positive difference in the lives of
others.
32
Accomplish Magazine

ERS:
By Tolulope Akinruli
Today, Mrs. Ibilola Amao continues
to play a pivotal role in the oil and gas
industry. She serves on the boards of
several prominent companies and
organizations, where her expertise
and insights are highly valued. Her
remarkable career journey, coupled
with her dedication to empowering
others, has cemented her reputation as
a trail-blazer and an influential figure in
the oil and gas sector.
Her ground-breaking record has
shed light on the intricacies of the
business world and has the potential to
revolutionize our understanding of how
to become a successful entrepreneur.
COO Magazine had the privilege of
engaging Mrs. Ibilola Amao to discuss
her journey and the future of the oil and
gas sector.
Here are the highlights of our
insightful conversation.
Please, ma’am, can you introduce
yourself?
My name is Ibilola Amao. I’m the
Principal Consultant at Lonadek Global
Services. I am an engineer and I’ve run
the business for about 32 years. I’m a
London-trained entrepreneur as well. I’m
Accomplish Magazine 33

INTERVIEW
very passionate about girls in STEM — women
in engineering, energy and entrepreneurship.
As a structural engineer, how did your passion
for the oil industry develop? What motivated
you to start your own oil service company?
My passion stemmed from being a
Physics and Maths student who loved solving
problems. So, as a problem solver that likes
Maths and Physics, l decided to go into
any of the Engineering disciplines; whether
it’s Chemical Engineering, Civil, Structural,
Mechanical, or Electrical Instrumentation.
The whole range of engineering activities. I
wanted to be an aeronautical engineer but
my late father told me that in my lifetime,
we wouldn’t be developing, designing and
building aeroplanes in Nigeria so I should look
for an alternative engineering type that would
benefit Nigeria. I opted for Civil and Structural
Engineering because I had seen my late father
work as a civil and structural engineer with
passion. When I graduated, my final year
project was in computing and developing
software for hydraulics, and I enjoyed
working on computers. My Ph.D. was based
on Computer-Aided Design, and I specialized
in 3D modelling of oil and gas facilities. When
I returned to Nigeria, I realized that the most
vibrant industry that required the knowledge I
had acquired during my Ph.D. studies was the
oil and gas sector, and I was very fortunate to
have a mentor and a role model engineer.
Tokunbo Shomolu introduced me to the oil
and gas industry. She was the one that gave
me my first opportunity in the oil and gas
industry. That’s how I got into the oil and gas
industry. The company which was registered
but didn’t have oil and gas as its priority
became very useful in the oil and gas industry.
Everything happened by destiny. I took so
many decisions because of the situations
that presented themselves, so I’m always very
particular about letting people know that my
journey in life has been God-defined (just like)
my journey with God, in terms of finding my
purpose and destiny.
Everything has been one thing leading to
another. Looking back now, I can only see
the hand of God and how I have journeyed
through my career.
Please, could you share with us some key
challenges you faced as a woman, knowing
fully well that males are more dominant in the
oil and gas industry? How were you able to
overcome this situation?
The first thing is understanding yourself.
I knew from training to become chartered
in the United Kingdom that I needed to be
more excited about site work and outdoor
activities. I loved working on my laptop, and
I loved working indoors. I focussed more
on my strengths. My strengths were solving
problems, and so on. So, I identified that the
major problem we had in the Nigerian oil and
gas industry was that expatriates were ahead
of Nigerians. Then, the curriculum in Nigerian
universities was not at the level where Nigerians
could even attempt to compete with the
expatriates. When I returned, there were hardly
any computers in the universities. Nobody
even knew how to use the kind of computers
that would be used for projects. So, I realized
that I could focus on bridging the gap, which is
domiciling, domesticating and democratizing
technology.
And how could I bridge the gap between
industry and the academia? By identifying,
developing and engaging clients. I realized
that my strength and purpose are training
and human capital development. The first
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Accomplish Magazine

“
My first advice
is to know who
you are and
your calling.
You must know
what you stand
for, and you
must remain
focused.
opportunity I got at NNPC-NETCO, when they
recruited 67 engineers to work on the Chevron
Escravos gas projects in 1992, was to train these
engineers. By the special grace of God, I took
them from their lack of knowledge... Some of
them had never seen a computer before… They
could (now) use computers to design facilities.
We experienced success from painstaking
commitment to training these 67 engineers to
use the engineering software on the Escravos
gas project from A2 flow stations. Shell flow
stations are more revolutionized into 234 flow
stations. In sheltered flow stations, l prepared
them to do an excellent job with the NNPC
technical partner then, which was Bechtel.
The success of that encouraged Nigerians
to do more work in Nigeria by bringing in
more expatriates. Most of the projects before
(then) were taken overseas - to be executed
with computers overseas. Then, we had to go
through an advocacy programme to make
sure that projects that come to Nigeria are
executed in Nigeria. Projects are executed in
Nigeria, and Nigerians are engaged; trained
and engaged to execute those projects in
Nigeria. I realized that developing Nigerians to
execute these projects in Nigeria was a huge
gap that had to be filled. I worked on that for
ten years and ten months in NNPC and NETCO.
The success of that encouraged other Nigerian
engineering companies to set up and begin to
use computers effectively to do engineering
design work in Nigeria.
So, I’m very pleased that I was quite
instrumental in advocacy for local content and
domesticating engineering design projects in
Nigeria.
With your experience, what are the most
significant technological advancements wthat
have revolutionized the oil sector in Nigeria?
How has your company adapted to these
changes?
The oil and gas value-chain is from
upstream to midstream to downstream. So, the
technology for exploration and production subsurface
work differs from the technology for the
top side: facilities, engineering and design. You
can’t really apply the same technology from
upstream to midstream to downstream and for
different aspects of the oil and gas industry.
We’ve identified the space where we
play: facilities, engineering, operations, and
maintenance. We’ve been so fortunate to
have the opportunity to partner with the
proprietors of technology in the area of
facilities, engineering, design, developing digital
twins, systems integration and predictive and
prescriptive operations and maintenance. So,
we have partners for engineering technology
and design. We also work with cloud technology
partners. Technology is evolving. So, it requires
a lot of continuous learning and development,
collaboration with foreign technical partners,
and proprietors of technology.
We are currently looking at Industry 5.0, which
is human-computer interaction and deploying
robots to optimize the assets and enhance
the profitability of assets and efficiency of the
human resources that are optimizing these
assets. We are very much involved in not only
deploying technology systems (but also in)
integration training and development of the
experts who will deploy this technology in the
oil and gas industry. Daily, we’re learning and
developing people’s talent, we’re identifying
STEM talent - Science, Technology, Engineering,
Maths, and talent; empowering engineers
to do more in the oil and gas sector. We’ve
moved from just providing technology in the
oil and gas sector to providing technology in
the energy, power, infrastructure, mining and
manufacturing sector. At the moment, we’re
beginning to engage engineering talent in other
sectors beyond oil and gas.
Accomplish Magazine 35

INTERVIEW
As the owner of an oil service company,
what specific services does your company
provide and how do you ensure that you stay
competitive in such a dynamic industry?
We provide assets and information
management solutions, local content
consultancy, and due diligence. We outsource
Science, Technology, Engineering and Maths
talent to deploy our technologies. We’re also
very much involved in training and human
capital development.
For me as an individual, my passion is working
with girls in STEM and women in engineering,
energy and entrepreneurship because we
have diversity issues, and it’s not easy to find
females in male-dominated sectors. So, because
I’m a female engineer in a male-dominated
sector, I’m committed to working with women
- to ensure they play in this space. I work with
the Association of
Professional Women
Engineers in Nigeria
app. I’m a Co-founder
of the Women in
Energy Network and
very much involved.
We connect, work
and focus on women
groups to ensure
that our girls are
encouraged to excel
in male-dominated
sectors.
We invest heavily
in training and
developing our staff as we train and develop
the professionals of our client companies. We’re
members of various associations, institutions
and societies, and we collaborate, cooperate
and coordinate resources with our partners to
ensure that we are competitive in delivering the
products and services that we offer the industry.
As we all know, the oil industry faces criticism
for its environmental impact, especially in
Nigeria. How does your company approach
sustainability and environmental responsibility
in its operations?
For me, it depends on where you play. As I
mentioned, there are upstream, midstream and
downstream. Because we provide engineering
technology and information management
solutions, we’re not very much involved in
environmental pollution activities.
There are 17 sustainable development
“
The second thing is
ensuring you have the
right support system so
you don’t joke with your
family and siblings.
goals, 16 + 1, which are partnerships and
collaborations. Our own sustainability
strategy is tied to SDG 4, 5 and 8 - which are
education, gender diversity and improving
industry applications and solutions. What
we do, normally, is to ensure that we are
involved in climate change as well. We also
get involved in ensuring that some of our
clients and partners deploy their solutions
appropriately.
I would say our sustainability strategy
is tied to innovation and industry, climate
change, education, quality, education
and gender diversity. We’re also involved
in implementing solutions in the industry.
We’re not very involved in oil spills and
environmental degradation but one of
our sustainability strategies is ensuring
(that) we do not pollute the environment.
We minimize the use of these plastics and
disposables. We try to pivot into using solar
and renewables
in our operations
because, at the
moment, we run
industrialization.
diesel generators.
(Due to) the
economic situation
at the moment,
we’re just rethinking
our sustainability
strategy and we
are focused on
SDG 4-5 and 8 as
well as climate
change, renewable
energy and
Can you discuss some of the major projects
or initiatives your company has undertaken
in the oil sector and their impact on the
industry and local communities?
Like I stated earlier, the Global
Services brand is known for identifying,
developing and engaging talent. Apart
from developing the engineers in NNPC for
the Chevron Escravos gas project, we were
known for domiciling, domesticating and
democratizing engineering technology in
the oil and gas sector. We are also known
for technology transfer. We ensured the
technology was transferred to Nigeria during
the NNPC Bechtel joint venture and ERA
between 2006 and 2020.
We are identified, developed and
engaged by 100,000 STEM talents through
our Vision 2020 Career Counselling Industry
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Accomplish Magazine

Awareness and Youth Empowerment
Initiative. Following that, we worked
with Microsoft, LinkedIn, and GitHub
between 2020 and 2022 to expose over
15,000 Africans, using technology for job
demands. We’ve also trained 25 cloud
practitioners with Amazon Web Services.
We’ve empowered over 200 women in
leadership with the US Aid Power Africa,
energy sector, women’s leadership, and
Women’s Leadership Initiative that’s
ongoing. We’re also working with GIZ
GOPA to empower entrepreneurs to take
their ideas to bankable business plans.
We provide single-digit loans with them in
collaboration with the Bank of Industry.
We’re very committed to social
impact initiatives and corporate social
responsibilities. As we partner with
various bodies, associations, institutions,
societies and organizations to empower
Nigerians, we’re very involved in
education, enlightenment, empowerment,
engagement and entrepreneurship - to
build capability and competence so
that more Nigerians and more Nigerian
companies can compete favourably in
Nigeria, regionally and internationally.
The oil sector is known for its volatility
and price fluctuations. How do you
navigate these challenges and ensure
the stability and growth of your
company?
Well, this has been a major challenge
in the oil sector; when there’s a price
reduction, all our clients negotiate
our contracts downwards. But, when
price increases, they don’t increase our
contract value. So, what we have had
to do is diversify. We provide services,
whether they’re social impact services or
CSR services; we provide services in other
sectors - energy, power, infrastructure,
manufac turing and mining.
Secondly, we’ve tried to de-risk our
naira exposure and working tirelessly to
collaborate with international partners
to provide services outside Nigeria so
that we’re able to look at our basket of
products and services to make sure that
we are generating revenue from different
products and services or different
markets or different sectors. So, we have
monthly strategy meetings to ensure
that we’re not affected - to de-risk our
portfolio of activities so that we’re not in
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INTERVIEW
a situation where the pricing of oil affects
our business, and this is a major, major
problem for most service providers and
the gas industry.
With the increasing global focus on
renewable energy sources, how do you
see the future of the oil industry? What
role do you envision your company to play
in this evolving landscape, especially in
Nigeria?
Oil and gas will always be oil and gas
because heavy industries require oil
and gas. I believe heavy manufacturing
equipment would still need oil and gas.
Oil and gas would still be in the energy
mix. Now, regarding renewable (energy),
as l said earlier, we’re collaborating with
US Aid Power Africa to develop women in
the energy sector, deploying renewable
solutions.
Everybody knows now that people
are migrating from heavy oil solutions
to energy solutions to renewable energy
solutions. We are currently in the Decade
of Gas in Nigeria; 2021 to 2030 is the
Decade of Gas in Nigeria. People are using
gas to power turbines; people are using
gas to power solutions. We’re also looking
at CNG, LNG and LPG as alternative fuels.
Beyond that, we’re working to empower
women and renewable energy solution
providers to access single-digit loans with
the Bank of Industry.
We’re definitely looking at energy
transition as an opportunity and
looking at how we can migrate our
existing customers from where they are
dependent on heavy fuels to how they
can transition into renewable energy;
we’re currently working with a company
in Birmingham (England), on hydrogen.
We’re looking at how best to integrate
hydrogen as a power source in the
industries we’re currently working in. So,
there are short, medium and long-term
strategies for energy transition and how
do we work with our existing customers
and clients to make their energy transition
journey in reality? We’re very much
involved in energy transition and digital
transformation; working with our clients
and partners.
Could you share a memorable experience
with us or achievements in your career
that have significantly impacted you
personally and professionally?
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Accomplish Magazine

I always tell people that the most
transformational award I ever received was
the Energy Champion Award 2016. We were
asked to submit quite a lot of documentation to
qualify for the Energy Champion Award by the
Energy Institute. I did that, and four people were
shortlisted. There was a dinner in London, in Park
Lane. I attended the dinner with my daughter,
my first daughter. We were all asked to write an
acceptance speech. I was unsure if l could win
because four people were contending for the
price, and my daughter asked me to write my
acceptance speech. So, I told her I couldn’t write
an acceptance speech because I didn’t know if
I would win. I was anxious because I was at the
event with my daughter, and I wanted to win
because I wanted to be a good example to my
daughter.
When I looked at the profiles of the other
three people, which were very impressive, I
wasn’t sure I would win. To God be the glory, I
won that award. With
that, I gave a speech
from the top of my
head, which was very,
very instructive, and
came from the depth
of my heart. It was
very original. What
gladdened me most
is that most of what
I have received has
either come because
somebody nominated
me or somebody
submitted my name,
and then they send
me a letter that I was awarded. This (the Energy
Champion Award) was the first time in my life I
was going to an award ceremony that I wasn’t
sure I would win.
I wasn’t sure what was going to happen and
the fact that my daughter was there and I was
able to make her proud. We didn’t leave (the
venue) in shame, and it was such a high level; the
very competitive award is something I will forever
be grateful for because that must have inspired
my daughter and must have made her proud of
her mother. So, that’s the only award ceremony
I’ve ever attended where I wasn’t sure I would
win, and I didn’t know I had won.
I’m forever grateful for that and (it inspired
our) joining the Energy Institute Council. I served
on the Energy Institute UK Council for six years;
two terms of three years. I’m currently on the
Energy Institute International Energy Weekly
board. That award opened several doors for me;
even my position on the panel of judges with the
“
What gladdened me most
is that most of what I
have received has either
come because somebody
nominated me or somebody
submitted my name, and then
they send me a letter that I
was awarded.
Royal Academy of Engineering UK was on the
back of that recognition. So, you get some
awards, and the recognitions open even
more doors for you. I’m forever grateful for
the Energy Champion Award in 2016.
There are a lot of arguments in the
oil industry on how it has contributed
significantly to climate change worldwide.
How do you respond to this claim, and
what steps do you take to minimize your
company’s carbon footprint?
As I explained earlier, we try as much as
possible not to use disposables. We also try
as much as possible not to run our generator
except when we have full demand for the
generator. That’s why when we travel with
our staff bus, we ensure that we plan our
journeys. So, on the day that we are going
to (Lagos) Island from Jibowu, we make
sure that as many staff with things to do
on the island are on the bus. Those are the
kind of little things
we do, but that
is intangible and
insignificant when
you look at gas
flaring in the Niger
Delta.
I believe that
this question is
more applicable
to exploration
and production
companies that
are flaring gas.
The only way to
address this is for
the oil and gas industry regulator and UPRC
to ensure that the penalties for flwaring gas
are much higher than the cost of utilizing
gas; you issue a big penalty for flaring gas.
The economics of that penalty will compel
the exploration and production companies
to utilize the gap as a process. So, instead
of flaring the gas, they will capture it, put it
through a process, and ensure they get CNG,
LPG and LNG out of the gas.
So much advocacy is required, but until
the penalty for flaring gas becomes very,
very tangible… Consequently, most of the
companies would not invest in gas utilization
or even go into exploration and production
of non-associated gas.
We know that the oil sector has a lot of
ethics and transparency as regards the oil
sector. With the allegation of corruption and
exploitation, how do you address this issue
Accomplish Magazine 39

INTERVIEW
“
within your own company?
I must be honest with you. I’ve been in the
oil and gas industry for almost 32 years. I have
never paid a bribe, and I have never received a
bribe. I can honestly tell you that I would have
been a billionaire in dollars if I had taken any
of the opportunities that have been presented
to me in terms of bribery and corruption
daily. When you are exposed to bribery and
corruption opportunities, it’s up to you to take
or not take. Like I always tell people, I’m not a
billionaire today because I play by strict ethics
and integrity, and I’m very transparent.
Lonadek is very transparent in our business.
We always translate our audits and ISO
certification; ISO 9120 fifteen certifications
are something we are committed to. We are
also committed to integrity, honesty, integrity
and transparency. This is an area where we
made a decision that we are gonna be an
exemplary company even though it has cost us
a lot of opportunities, in terms of people who
play dirty in the oil and gas industry. I’m very
pleased to say that we have also benefited
from international opportunities because some
multi-national companies seek to do business
with us… whose footprint is integrity, honesty
and transparency.
One just has to decide whether you want to
play dirty or whether you want to play clean.
The oil and gas industry is known for bribery
and corruption, but we have not taken any of
those routes. We’ve lost opportunities based on
our position on ethics, but we are proud to say
that integrity has also created opportunities for
us. Many people we’ve trained, over the years,
now serve as executives in multi-nationals and
even international companies outside Nigeria.
I’ve visited places like Aberdeen, Houston,
and Qatar, where some of our trainees are
doing exceptionally well. So, if you are a person
of integrity, your work must speak for you at
some point. We work very hard and are diligent,
quality-conscious in all our deliverables. So, we
get jobs on merit and not based on privacy and
corruption.
Some activists argue that fossil fuel should
be completely phased out. What is your
perspective on this, and do you believe there
is a future for the oil industry in a sustainable
world?
Nigeria has yet to fully optimize its oil and
gas resources, regarding domestic use and
petroleum assets; with the Dangote refinery just
coming on stream or about to come on stream.
When you are
exposed to bribery
and corruption
opportunities, it’s up
to you to take or not
take. Like I always
tell people, I’m not
a billionaire today
because I play by
strict ethics and
integrity, and I’m very
transparent.
Hopefully, Nigeria has a huge opportunity for
industrialization using petroleum products.
So, I would say that there is not even a point
in optimizing our oil and gas resources for
industrialization until we domesticate our
manufacturing processes and we get to a
point where we have uninterrupted power
supply based on our petroleum assets.
Petroleum assets have not been fully
optimized because since oil and gas or
petroleum was discovered in 1956 in Oloibiri,
Nigeria is yet to fully use its speculum assets
for industrialization until we are able to go
for uninterrupted power supply. We need
to have a strategy where, over the next ten
years, we optimize gas to power and ensure
that domestic use of gas creates industries.
Nigeria will rise to industrialization phase, and
off the grid; we can use solar and renewable
energy… Be it geothermal, wind energy,
biomass or solar. We could use renewable
energy to augment the ungreased gas to
power solutions.
Still, the ultimate is to ensure that we
have the right energy mix from conventional
sources of energy and non-conventional
sources of energy to ensure that we
industrialize as a country. We will get
uninterrupted power supply and the quality of
life in Nigeria will improve and until Nigerian
citizens on the streets get the dividend of our
hydrocarbon footprints, we have not really
40
Accomplish Magazine

done the right thing.
I hope we will get to optimize our oil and gas
resources for industrialization, creating jobs
and wealth in Nigeria with uninterrupted power
supply. Then, we can look at the energy mix by
reducing our carbon footprints. You can’t sit in
the World Bank or in the United Nations until
Africa is ready to decarbonize because Africa
is not producing the amount of carbon that the
Western world is doing. It is in different phases.
It’s not every size fits and whilst the Western
world is decarbonizing, Africa still needs to
go through its industrialization phase before
decarbonizing.
So, our energy mix will be hydrocarbon
dependent on the gas side, pending when we
are fully industrialized to the point where we
can maximize renewable energy to provide
uninterrupted power supply.
As we conclude, knowing fully well that you are a
successful entrepreneur, what advice would you
give to aspiring individuals, particularly women
who are interested in pursuing a career in the oil
in oil and gas industry?
My first advice is to know who you are and
your calling. You must know what you stand for,
and you must remain focused.
That’s the first thing. The second thing is
ensuring you have the right support system so
you don’t joke with your family and siblings. My
parents played a significant role in defining
who I am in business and my private life.
I mean, I’ve been fortunate to have an
understanding husband who allowed me
to travel when I had to travel and grow my
career and business, provided I had done
my duty and responsibility in the home. I
also have responsible friends who have
supported me with great advice, and I’ve
been blessed with mentors and coaches.
I’m involved in the right networks and
committed to continuing professional
development in the relevant associations,
institutions and societies. In recent times, l
have become very much engaged in women
empowerment initiatives. So, it’s vital to
connect women to Commonwealth business,
women’s network, and Women in Energy
Network, where I’m a co-founder. I’m very
much involved in women in empowerment
initiatives. That’s why, as I told you earlier, I
give much of my time and resources to girls
in STEM and women in engineering, energy
and entrepreneurship. I want to see them
succeed and be even more successful than
myself.
I have been able to mentor and coach
young women in male-dominated sectors so
that they don’t go through as many hurdles
as I had to do. Being in a male-dominated
environment is not easy, but by the special
grace of God and with the right support
system and advice, you can succeed. Lastly,
I’d like to thank you, and I’d also like to
recognize my supportive husband, and my
three young adult children, who have given
me this space to express myself and do what
makes me happy.
You are welcome, ma’am.
Tolulope
Akinruli
AUTHOR BIO
My love to impact knowledge
to the
young and old led me to research and writing.
Also, l have been business-oriented, right from
childhood, which made me focus more on driving
the business world and also to help people grow
their business. As a writer, I aim to create an
insightful image in the minds of every reader for
maximum wealth and health.
Accomplish Magazine 41

Swedish Style:
Stockholm
Plans to Build
the Largest
Timber City
in the World
By Damian Ikenna Ngere
Stockholm Wood City is
being designed by the
Scandinavian studio
Henning Larsen and White
Arkitekter.
It will be the largest masstimber
construction in the world
and have the “serenity of a
forest.”
Developer Atrium Ljungberg
dubbed the project, which will
be built in the Stockholm area
of Sickla, the “world’s largest
wooden city” since it will utilise
more wood than any other
project now under construction.
The 250,000 square metre
Stockholm Wood City is being
planned by the Swedish
company White Arkitekter and
the Danish studio Henning
Larsen. It will include 2,000
houses and 7,000 office spaces.
The district, according to the
developer, was intended to have
a forest-like ambiance and will
include elements inspired
by nature.
“We sought to create
an urban environment
infused with the serenity
of a forest, resulting in a
dense, open space that
bears the distinctively
minimalistic and functional
aesthetic of Scandinavian
design,” Atrium Ljungberg
told Dezeen.
“The architects innovatively
incorporated natural elements
into the structures – for instance,
green roofs for better insulation
and large windows to let in
natural light, embodying our
vision of a city that thrives in
harmony with nature,” it added.
The buildings will be
constructed from fire-proofed
mass timber.
“Engineered wood forms a
protective char layer on the
surface that retains much of its
structural
strength, contributing
to a safer structure,” the developer
said.
There are other advantages
to building cities out of wood,
which also has the dual properties
of sequestering carbon and
ewmitting fewer emissions than
concrete, it continued.
“Wooden construction
means significantly reduced
climate impact both during the
construction phase and through
the whole life cycle,” Atrium
Ljungberg said.
“Research has also proven other
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GRAND
DESIGN
strong benefits, such as improved
well-being for people and a faster,
quieter construction process.”
According to the developer,
Stockholm Wood City will also
feature self-produced, stored, and
shared energy, albeit he withheld
specifics of the project’s energy
generation.
The first buildings are expected
to be finished in 2027 when the
development breaks ground in 2025.
“We are building the project in
phases to learn new things during
each phase which we can then
apply in the following phases,”
the developer said.
“We will learn much more
from doing this at such a big
scale. Our core strategy is to
develop large interconnected
areas,” it added.
“In this way, we can create
places full of variety that people
enjoy and where they want to
be, as opposed to just setting up
a single building.”
Stockholm Wood City will
contain restaurants and shops
in addition to residences and
workplaces.
It is the most recent in a string
of substantial wooden projects
that are now being built,
including a waterfront project in
Toronto that will include designs
by Adjaye Architects, Alison
Brooks Architects, and Henning
Larsen.
In addition, Sara Kulturhus,
a 20-story mass-timber cultural
structure in northern Sweden
that we examined in further
detail as part of our Timber
Revolution series, was designed
by White Arkitekter.
Damian
Ikenna Ngere
AUTHOR BIO
Ikenna is a graduate of
Physics and Education,
who works as a freelance
writer. He has interest in
technology, humanity and
sports.
Accomplish Magazine 43

Unprecedented
Historical Auction:
Ancient Hebrew Bible
Fetches Eye-Watering
$38.1 Million
By Damian Ikenna Ngere
• A Pricey Piece of
History
In a thrilling five-minute
bidding duel at Sotheby’s in New
York, United States of America,
a Hebrew Bible fetched an
astounding $38.1 million, securing
its place as the second-highest
auctioned historical artifact.
• The Codex
Sassoon
The book, called the Codex
Sassoon, contains all 24 books
of the Hebrew Bible, except for
about eight pages. It’s believed
to be from the late ninth or
early 10th century, making
it the oldest near-complete
Hebrew Bible known to exist. Not
many scholars have had the
chance to see it because it was
owned by a Swiss financier and
collector named Jacqui Safra.
• A Generous
Donation
After the auction, it was
announced that the buyer was
the American Friends of ANU —
Museum of the Jewish People
in Tel Aviv. The purchase was
made possible by a donation
from Alfred H. Moses, a former
ambassador to Romania, and
his family. The Codex Sassoon
will be donated to the museum
and become part of its core
exhibition.
• A Historic
Treasure
The Hebrew Bible is incredibly
important and has had a huge
impact on Western Civilization.
Alfred H. Moses said, “I rejoice
in knowing that it belongs to
the Jewish people. It was my
mission to see it resides in a
place with global access to all
people.”
• A Record-
Breaking Sale
While $38.1 million may not
seem like much compared to
the prices of famous artworks,
it’s actually a lot for a book
or historical document. The
previous record was held by the
Codex Leicester, a Leonardo
da Vinci manuscript bought by
Bill Gates for $30.8 million. But in
November 2021, a first printing
of the U.S. Constitution sold for
$43.2 million!
• A Masterpiece of
Scribal Art
The Codex Sassoon is a true
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ARTS &
THE MASTERS
work of art. It was written by
a single scribe and required
the skins of over 100 animals
to create its 400 parchment
leaves. Although it’s slightly
worn with stains and tears, the
text is still clear and readable.
• A Journey
Through Time
This Bible is one of only two
complete or nearly complete
Hebrew Bibles from that time
period. It was made in presentday
Israel or Syria and contains
the Masoretic text, which was
carefully annotated by scholarscribes
to ensure its proper
reading and transmission.
The book also has
inscriptions that tell us about its
ownership over the centuries.
It was sold by Khalaf ben
Abraham to Isaac ben Ezekiel
el-Attar around 1000 A.D. Later, it
was dedicated to a synagogue
in Syria and entrusted to a man
named Salama bin Abi al-Fakhr.
Unfortunately, the synagogue
was destroyed, and the Bible’s
journey from then until 1929,
when it was purchased by
David Solomon Sassoon,
remains a mystery.
• A Homecoming
Now, the Codex Sassoon
is finally returning to Israel.
Irina Nevzlin, the chair of the
museum’s board, said, “It’s
coming back to Israel, and
it’s coming home. It’s the right
place to be.”
Damian
Ikenna Ngere
AUTHOR BIO
Ikenna is a graduate of
Physics and Education,
who works as a freelance
writer. He has interest in
technology, humanity and
sports.
Accomplish Magazine 45

ARTS &
THE MASTERS
Unraveling the
Mystery:
Historian Claims
Mona Lisa’s Bridge
Exists in Real-Life
By Damian
Ikenna Ngere
One of the most wellknown
pieces of art
in the entire world
is Leonardo Da
Vinci’s “Mona Lisa”,
which is renowned
for both its beauty
and the secrecy surrounding
the identity of the model and
the setting depicted behind her.
The village of Ponte Buriano,
a suburb of Arezzo in the
Tuscany region of Italy, has long
been the subject of controversy.
However, they are so convinced
that the bridge behind the
Mona Lisa is the Ponte Buriano
that they have made it a focal
point of their local tourism
campaign and even claimed
ownership of the bridge on the
village’s welcome sign.
The bridge behind the Mona
Lisa model is actually the
Romito Bridge in the nearby
Tuscan town of Laterina,
according to historian Silvano
Vinceti.
“The distinctive form of the
Arno [River] along that stretch
of territory corresponds to
what Leonardo portrayed in
the landscape to the left of
the woman depicted in the
famous painting,” Vinceti said
at a media conference at the
Foreign Press Association in
Rome on May 3, 2023.
In order to demonstrate the
similarities, Vinceti also created
a virtual recreation of the bridge
and drew on materials from the
Florence state archives.
It is important to note that
the “Mona Lisa” was painted in
the early 16th century. Vinceti
discovered that Da Vinci resided
with Cardinal Cesare Borgia
close to Laterina between
1501 and 1503. As shown in the
artwork, the bridge had four
arches and was in use.
Conversely, the Ponte Bobbio
in Piacenza, which some claim
is depicted in the artwork, has
more than six arches, according
to Vinceti, while the Buriano
Bridge has six.
The Romito bridge, which
connected Florence, Arezzo,
and Fiesole, is now in ruins.
According to Vinceti, the
“Etruscan-Roman Romito bridge
is unmistakably” the one in
the background after years of
studying pictures, ruins, and
drone footage of the riverbanks
and its surroundings.
The Mayor of Laterina,
Simona Neri, who was
present at the news briefing,
is enthusiastic about the
possibility of using the
bridge to draw tourists to her
3,500-person town.
“We really hope that this
wonderful news will intrigue
and fascinate local and foreign
tourists, with the knowledge that
it will be a great opportunity
to relaunch the tourism of our
territory on which we can work
a lot starting from naturalistic,
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PORTRAIT OF MONA LISA
cultural and monumental
valuation,” she said.
“We need to try to protect
what’s left of the bridge, which
will require funding,” Neri said,
noting that there are funds
available for most areas tied to
Da Vinci and other masters.
“There’ll be some rivalry; we’ll
need to put a poster up, too,”
she added.
Millions of people visit the
Louvre in Paris each year to
witness the 16th-century masterwork
by Leonardo da Vinci.
However, analysts contend
that rather than any particular
aesthetic merit, it owes its
widespread fame to the fact
that it was stolen from the
gallery by Italian handyman,
Vincenzo Peruggia in 1911.
“If a different one of
Leonardo’s works had been
stolen, then that would have
been the most famous work in
the world — not the ‘Mona Lisa,’”
Noah Charney, professor of
Art History and author of “The
Thefts of the Mona Lisa,” said
in 2013, which marked the 100-
year anniversary of when the
painting was recovered.
“There was nothing that
really distinguished it per se,
other than it was a very good
work by a very famous artist
— that’s until it was stolen,” he
added. “The theft is what really
skyrocketed its appeal and
made it a household name.”
Damian
Ikenna Ngere
AUTHOR BIO
Ikenna is a graduate of
Physics and Education,
who works as a freelance
writer. He has interest in
technology, humanity and
sports.
Accomplish Magazine 47

5 Remarkable
Benefits of
Drinking
Water
Early in the
Morning
Tolulope Akinruli
AUTHOR BIO
My love to impact knowledge
to the young and old led me to
research and writing. Also, l
have been business-oriented,
right from childhood, which
made me focus more on driving
the business world and also to
help people grow their business.
As a writer, I aim to create an
insightful image in the minds
of every reader for maximum
wealth and health.
By Tolulope Akinruli
Water is the essence of life, and its consumption
plays a pivotal role in maintaining optimal
health. While it’s important to stay hydrated
throughout the day, drinking water - first thing in the
morning - has numerous advantages that can set the
tone for a healthier lifestyle.
We will explore five remarkable benefits of starting
your day with a glass of water, as published by
entrepreneurng.com.
1. Rehydration and Kick-starting
Your Metabolism.
After a long night’s sleep, your body craves
hydration. Drinking water as soon as you wake up helps
replenish the fluids lost during the night, rehydrating
your body and jump-starting your metabolism. Proper
hydration supports various bodily functions, including
digestion, nutrient absorption, circulation, and
temperature regulation. A well-hydrated body tends
to have increased energy levels, improved focus, and
better overall performance throughout the day.
2. Flushes Out Toxins and Aids in
Detoxification1
Drinking water on an empty stomach, in the
morning, can effectively flush out toxins and waste
products accumulated in your body over-night.
As water moves through your digestive system, it
stimulates bowel movements, aiding regular and
healthy bowel function. This early
morning detoxification process helps
to remove harmful substances,
promotes a clean digestive tract, and
improves overall gut health.
3. Promotes Weight
Loss and Healthy
Digestion
For individuals aiming to lose weight or maintain
a healthy weight, drinking water in the morning can
be a beneficial practice. Consuming water before
breakfast can help suppress appetite, reducing calorie
intake during the first meal of the day. Additionally,
water enhances the body’s ability to break down food,
aiding digestion and nutrient absorption. By promoting
healthy digestion and curbing over-eating, water assists
in achieving and maintaining healthy weight.
4. Boosts Brain Function and
Mental Clarity.
Proper hydration is essential for optimal brain
function. When you wake up dehydrated, your
cognitive abilities may be affected, leading to
fatigue, difficulty in concentrating, and lack of
mental clarity. Drinking water in the morning
increases blood flow to the brain, providing it
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Accomplish Magazine

with the necessary oxygen and
nutrients to function efficiently.
Improved hydration can enhance
cognitive performance, memory
retention, and overall mental
alertness, setting a positive tone
for the day ahead.
5. Enhances
Skin Health and
Radiance.
One of the simplest and most
cost-effective ways to achieve
healthy, glowing skin is by
hydrating yourself adequately.
Water helps to replenish and
moisturize your skin cells,
improving elasticity and reducing
the appearance of wrinkles and
fine lines. By drinking water in the
morning, you hydrate your skin
from within, promoting a clear
complexion and a youthful glow.
Additionally, sufficient hydration
aids detoxification, leading to the
elimination of toxins that may
contribute to skin issues such as
acne and dullness.
Conclusion:
Drinking water early in the
morning is a powerful habit
with numerous health benefits.
From rehydrating your body and
kick-starting your metabolism
to promoting weight loss,
detoxification, improved brain
function, and enhanced skin
health, the advantages are
HEALTH
plentiful. Incorporating this simple
practice into your daily routine
can set a positive tone for the rest
of your day and contribute to your
overall well-being. So, make it
a habit to reach for that glass of
water as soon as you wake up and
enjoy the myriad benefits it offers.
Stay hydrated, stay
healthy!
Accomplish Magazine 49

HEALTH
THE ADVANTAGES
OF ADDING GARLIC
TO YOUR DIET:
5
WAYS IT BENEFITS
YOUR HEALTH
By Tolulope Akinruli
Garlic, with its pungent aroma and distinctive taste, has been
used for centuries in various cuisines worldwide. Apart
from being a flavourful ingredient, garlic is also renowned
for its numerous health benefits. Rich in nutrients and medicinal
properties, this humble bulb can greatly enhance your well-being,
as captioned by entrepreneurng.com.
Here are five compelling reasons to include garlic in your diet:
1. Boosts
Immune
System
Garlic is known for its
immune-boosting properties.
It contains compounds like
allicin, which has anti-microbial
and anti-viral effects. Regular
consumption of garlic can help
strengthen your immune system,
making you less susceptible to
infections and illnesses. It has
been found to stimulate the
production of white blood cells,
which are crucial for fighting off
pathogens.
2. Supports
Heart Health
Including garlic in your diet
can have significant benefits
for your cardiovascular health.
Studies have shown that garlic
can help lower blood pressure
and reduce cholesterol levels.
Allicin and other sulphur
compounds in garlic assist in
widening the blood vessels,
promoting better blood flow
and reducing the risk of blood
clots. By maintaining healthy
blood pressure and cholesterol
levels, garlic can contribute to a
healthier heart.
3. Antiinflammatory
Effects
Chronic inflammation is
associated with numerous health
conditions, including arthritis,
diabetes, and cardiovascular
diseases. Garlic possesses potent
anti-inflammatory properties that
can help combat inflammation in
the body. Its sulphur compounds
inhibit the production of
inflammatory substances,
thereby reducing swelling and
easing symptoms in various
inflammatory conditions.
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Incorporating Garlic into
Your Diet
To enjoy the health benefits of garlic, it’s important
to consume it in the right way. Raw garlic is the most
potent form, but it may not be suitable for everyone due
to its strong taste and potential digestive discomfort.
Cooking garlic lightly can help preserve its beneficial
compounds while making it more palatable.
Here are a few ideas to incorporate
garlic into your diet:
a. Add minced or
crushed garlic to sautéed
vegetables, soups, stews,
and sauces.
b. Roast whole garlic
bulbs and spread the soft,
caramelized cloves on
bread or mix them into
mashed potatoes for a
flavourful twist.
c. Make home-made,
garlic-infused oils for
drizzling over salads or
dipping bread.
d. Use garlic in
marinades for meat, fish,
or tofu, enhancing both
the flavour and the health
benefits.
In conclusion, garlic
is a versatile ingredient
that not only adds flavour
to your dishes but also
provides several health
benefits. From boosting
the immune system
to supporting heart
health and reducing
inflammation, garlic has
proven its medicinal
value over the years.
By including garlic in
your diet regularly, you
can harness its powerful
properties and improve
your overall well-being.
4. Anti-oxidant
Powerhouse
Garlic is a rich source of antioxidants,
which play a crucial
role in neutralizing harmful
free-radicals in the body. Freeradicals
can cause oxidative
stress, leading to cellular damage
and an increased risk of chronic
diseases like cancer. Garlic’s
anti-oxidant properties help to
protect cells from damage and
promote overall health. Regular
consumption of garlic may also
have a preventive effect against
certain types of cancer.
5. Promotes
Digestive
Health
Garlic has been traditionally
used to support digestive
health and alleviate various
gastro-intestinal issues. It
possesses pre-biotic properties,
which means it acts as food for
beneficial gut bacteria. A healthy
gut microbiota is essential for
proper digestion and absorption
of nutrients. Additionally, garlic’s
anti-microbial properties can
help combat harmful bacteria in
the digestive system, promoting
balanced gut environment.
Tolulope Akinruli
AUTHOR BIO
My love to impact knowledge
to the young and old led me
to research and writing. Also,
l have been business-oriented,
right from childhood, which
made me focus more on
driving the business world
and also to help people grow
their business. As a writer, I
aim to create an insightful
image in the minds of every
reader for maximum wealth
and health.
Accomplish Magazine 51

ALTERNATIVE
MEDICINE
THE HEALTH
BENEFITS OF SNAIL
SHELLS
By Dr. Joel N. Logbo
Snail shells, especially
after they have been
properly ground into
powder, have been used
in traditional medicine for
various health benefits. In
Traditional Medicine, snail
shells are not considered
as waste. In fact, it is true
that nothing in nature is a
waste. It only inadequate
knowledge of a natural
substance could make one
consider it a waste.
Here are a few
medicinal uses of
giant snail shells:
Calcium and
Minerals:
Snail shells are primarily
composed of calcium
carbonate, which is a rich
source of calcium. Calcium
is essential for maintaining
strong bones and teeth,
aiding in muscle function,
and supporting nerve
transmission. If you choose
to consume snail shells for
calcium, make sure that you
include other nutrients that
aid calcium absorption.
Antiinflammatory
Properties:
In Traditional Medicine,
snail shells possess antiinflammatory
properties
and are used for treating
inflammatory diseases. You
can mix snail shell powder
with shea butter on fuluncle
(boil). You can also lick the
powder to manage asthma
and heart diseases.
Skin Health:
Ground snail shell is used as
an ingredient in skin-care
products. It is believed to
have exfoliating properties.
It may help to remove dead
skin cells and improve skin
texture. It also promotes
healthier complexion.
Collagen
Production:
Some researchers claim
that snail shell extracts or
components may stimulate
collagen production in the
skin. Collagen is a protein
that supports skin elasticity
and can help to reduce signs
of aging.
You can also mix snail shell
powder with raw honey to
scrub your body for better
glow.
Traditional
Medicine
Remedies:
In some traditional medicine
practices, snail shell powder
or extracts are used to
alleviate conditions such as
stomach ulcers, arthritis, and
joint pain.
It is important to note that
snail shell products should
be obtained from trusted
sources and used as
directed for required results.
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Accomplish Magazine

Joel N. Logbo `
AUTHOR BIO
Dr. Joel N. Logbo is a patient-centred
Natural Medicine doctor with 12 solid
years of industry experience in Lagos,
Nigeria and Wales, Scotland. He is currently
seeking more international collaborations to provide
holistic, non-invasive medical care for patients and the
public on health promotion.
His unique approach that has led to admirable
achievements include meeting with patients to assess
their health and wellness, learn their health goals and
create treatment plans. He also collaborates with various
teams of medical professionals to provide first-line and
supplemental medical treatments through a holistic,
natural approach.He loves traveling, adventures,
cooking and driving.
Accomplish Magazine 53

FOOD & WINE
World’s Most
Expensive Wine
S
ure, good wine
comes at a price,
but $40,000 seems
pretty expensive.
However, Hungarian
winemaker, Royal
Tokaji, says their limited-edition
2008 Essencia Decanter is worth it.
Only 20 examples of this unique
1.5 litre magnum designed by
Hungarian artist, James Carcass,
exist, 18 of which were released
last year.
Essencia 2008 Magnum was
described at launch as “the most
expensive wine in the world”,
and while that claim is difficult
to quantify, the Essencia 2008
Magnum was definitely the most
expensive wine sold in 2019. Each
carafe comes in a black box with a
switch that lights up the bottle and
is specially mouth blown, meaning
no two are the same. Around 11
bottles of have already been sold,
so it is likely that Royal Tokaji will
sell the remaining 7 bottles before
the 2300 wine’s expiry date.
The dessert wines produced
here rely on the botrytis cinerea
mold known as “noble rot”, which
causes the grapes on the vine to
dry out and shrivel up, looking like
brown raisins.
Essencia uses only the best aszú
grapes and is made entirely from
the juice of the aszú berries (other
wines produced in the region have
base wine added to dilute their
sweetness). Tourists can arrange
a private tour of the winery, about
a two-and-a-half-hour drive from
Budapest, to taste it.
“Essencia in itself is a miracle
of nature,” says London-based
Hungarian wine expert Orsi
Szentkiralyi. “It was very labourintensive
and required years of
painstaking work in the cellar…
It has only a few degrees of
alcohol but lots and lots of natural
sweetness. It is so rich that it is
usually served on a spoon rather
than a glass.”
Essencia can only be produced
in years when the climatic
conditions for Botrytis are more
or less perfect. 2008 was a
particularly impressive year. A
bottle of centilitre wine requires
around 20 kilogrammes of grapes
reduced to aszú berries, usually
with an alcohol content of around
3%.
“When we bottle Essencia,
the winemaker always makes the
decision,” says Zoltan Kovacs,
general manager of Royal Tokaj
Winery in the Tokaj district of
Mád… It can take three years,
four years or even after 10 years.
This [2008] Essencia was bottled
after eight years of ageing. This
is a somewhat unusual type
of Essencia, as it has a higher
alcohol content – around 4%.” This
produces a clear and extremely
intense aroma with hints of honey,
apricot and tea, almost unbearably
sweet.
The liquid is so viscous and syrupy
that it is usually drunk by the
spoonful. It’s so mouth-watering
that it’s hard to imagine taking a
few more sips without feeling light-
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headed
Although the 2008 Essencia
has already been released, it is
the uniqueness of this particular
set that makes this decanter more
valuable than the standard bottle.
Royal Tokaji must obtain special
permission from the Hungarian
government to serve Essencia in
1.5 litre containers – current law
only allows a maximum capacity
of 0.
5 litres.
“It’s really unique,” said
Charlie Mount, managing director
of Royal Tokaji. “I don’t know if
we will ever be able to repeat the
same mistakes.” The design of this
unusual decanter was apparently
inspired by wine “slowly dripping
from individually picked aszo
berries”.
Once finished, the decanters
are shipped to Portugal where
they are scanned and fitted with
personalized stoppers before
returning to Royal Tokaj where
they are filled and sealed by hand.
According to the Royal Tokaji team,
founded in 1990 by British wine
historian Hugh Johnson, one of
the company’s greatest successes
is having Hungarian wine talked
about again in the world.
“This project is the symbol of
one of Hungary’s biggest exports,”
said Mount. “Hungarians are very
proud of the diversity of wines
produced in the country... They
make a wide variety of wines.
But I think Tokaj wines have this
mystery for foreigners.
It is even mentioned in the
Hungarian national anthem.”
Szentkiralyi agrees with this
sentiment and points out that the
country still has a lot of untapped
potential in terms of the wine
industry. “A long wine-making
tradition, pleasant climate and
variety of wine styles make it
a wonderful wine-producing
country, but most of the product is
still consumed locally,” she said.
Although the range has put
Tokaj wines, and even Hungarian
wines, back in the limelight, its
appeal, especially that of Essencia,
dates back centuries. “Even in
the early 20th century, Tokaj was
the most expensive wine in the
world,” says Mount. “Doctors used
to prescribe it to their patients. If
you were lucky enough to afford it,
you would prescribe one teaspoon
of Essencia in the morning and
one teaspoon in the evening.”
“Tokaj’s famous sweet wine has
been enjoyed by wealthy people
all over the world for centuries,”
says Szentkiralyi. “Essencia is
a very unique product that may
have been a royal privilege, but
anyone can seek out and enjoy
a glass of Hungarian wine and
witness the quality.”
“Certainly expensive,” Mount
admits. “But true wine collectors
spend many times [$40,000] a year
to build the perfect wine cellar.
While all rare vintages increase
in value over time, Essencia offers
a particularly attractive shelf life
due to its high sugar and acidity
(2300). Years are certainly worth
more.
Editor’s Note: This publication
first appeared in worldtitbit.com.
Photo credit goes to fortune.com.
Accomplish Magazine 55

FOOD & WINE
How To
Prepare
The Perfect
Egusi Soup
At Home
By Chef Amaka
E
gusi is a West African name for the
seeds of plants like squash, melons,
and gourds that, when dried and
ground, become a staple ingredient in
many West African dishes.
Particularly, in Nigerian culture, egusi is popular
with pounded yam. These seeds are rich in fat
and protein, and add these essential nutrients
into West African Cuisine.
Nigerian Egusi Soup is a soup thickened with
ground melon seeds and contains leafy and
other vegetables.
It is one of the most popular soups prepared by
most tribes in Nigeria with considerable variation
and often eaten with dishes like Pounded Yams.
Prepare it with goat, beef, fish, or shellfish!
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RECIPE
• 1 cup blended onions
(about 3- 5 and fresh chilies,
to taste)
• 4 cups egusi (melon
seeds, ground or milled)
• 1/2 – 1 cup palm oil
• 2 teaspoons fresh
Une (Iru, locust beans)
• Salt (to taste)
• Ground crayfish (to
taste)
• 7– 8 cups stock
• Cooked Meat & fish
(quantity and variety to
personal preference)
• 2 cups cut pumpkin
leaves
• 1 cup waterleaf (cut)
• 3 tablespoons bitter
leaf (washed)
EGUSI PASTE
Prepare the egusi paste:
Blend egusi seeds and
onion mixture. Set aside.
MAKE THE SOUP
• In a large pot, heat
the palm oil on medium for
a minute and then add the
Une.
• Slowly add the
stock and set on low heat to
simmer.
• Scoop teaspoon
size balls of the egusi paste
mixture into the stock. Be
sure to keep ball shape.
• Leave to simmer for
20 – 30 minutes so the balls
cook through.
• Add the meat and
fish and other bits which
you’d like to use.
• Add cut-up
pumpkin leaves.
• Add the waterleaf.
• Stir and put a lid on
the pot and allow to cook
for 7–10 minutes, till the
leaves wilt.
• Add the bitter leaf.
Leave the lid off while the
cooking finishes for another
5-10 minutes.
• Stir, check
seasoning and adjust
accordingly.
Accomplish Magazine 57

TRAVEL
Locations
In Nigeria
To Visit
How did you spend
Independence Day last
year? The mall? Or perhaps
you are like me and didn’t go
anywhere and stayed indoors
due to the perception that all the
fun places would be packed full
of people.
Well, who says you have
to spend this independence
holiday in an eatery or mall?
Here are the top 10 locations in
Nigeria that you should consider.
By Amenna Daayo
A holiday is a special bonding
time for most families. The
connections and memories
formed during such family
adventures make for stories that
will last for generations. We can
also learn a lot from visiting new
environments and interacting
with people from different
backgrounds.
Here are a few of the most
beautiful places in Nigeria to
visit.
Yankari Game
Reserve
One beautiful place in
Nigeria to take the family
is Yankari Game Reserve.
Located in Bauchi State,
the resort is home to several
natural warm water springs,
as well as the remaining
elephants and lions in Nigeria.
Be sure to take a dive in the
crystal clear warm springs, get
a view of some wildlife, and
your family vacation is set to
be a memorable one.
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Erin-Ijesha
Waterfalls
Erin-Ijesha Waterfalls
is a collection of seven
cascades that pour over a
cliff, creating an impressive
seven-part waterfall. Each
part forms seven different
levels with each level giving
a whole new experience.
With that said, Erin-Ijesha
waterfall is definitely a
beautiful place in Nigeria to
bring the family for a day out
of the city.
Awhum
Waterfalls
The Awhum Waterfall is
formed out of a massive
outcrop of granite rock
with water flowing at the
top, forming a stream. The
best time to visit is during
the rainy season so be
sure to pack comfortable
clothes and shoes and
be prepared to get a little
wet as you explore this
beautiful place in Nigeria.
Zuma Rock
Zuma Rock is a large
monolith near
Abuja. Sometimes
referred to as
the “Gateway
to Abuja from
Suleja”, Zuma
rock is a large
natural monolith
located
immediately
west of Nigeria’s
capital, Abuja.
Be sure to go
along with an
experienced hiker
when visiting this
beautiful place in Nigeria.
Accomplish Magazine 59

TRAVEL
Idanre Hills
Idanre Hills is located in an
ancient city set upon a hill
in the city of Idanre Akure,
Ondo State. Ensure you take
the 682 steps it takes to get
to the top of the hill and bask
in the beautiful landscape of
the city with your family.
Mpape Crushed Rock
Mpape Crushed Rock is an abandoned quarry
in Abuja. This beautiful place in Nigeria is such
a picturesque location, perfect for a picnic with
the family, a photoshoot, or a refreshing hike.
Pack a basket, put on some comfortable shoes,
and head over to this scenic wonder.
Olumo
Rock
Olumo rock is a massive
outcrop of granite rocks.
The rock is a historical
monument that served
as shelter for the locals
during intercity wars. If the
kids aren’t up for a hike
up the rock, there are
elevators available so they
can still have a look at this
beautiful place in Nigeria.
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Lekki
Conservation
Centre
If you’re an animal-loving family,
Lekki Conservation Centre is the
perfect place for you to visit.
Take a walk down the longest
canopy walkway in Africa, get a
view of the birds, monkeys, and
some endangered species in
the reserve.
Ikogosi Warm
Springs
A list of beautiful places in Nigeria
is incomplete without Ikogosi Warm
Springs, one of Nigeria’s major tourist
attractions. It’s a must to experience
the natural wonder of two springs
meeting while maintaining their
individual temperatures. Put on your
hiking shoes and get your camera
ready for an amazing adventure.
Obudu
Mountain
Resort
If you are a tourist looking
for adventure and tranquillity,
Obudu Mountain Resort is
for you. Known as Africa’s
finest and one of the most
beautiful places in Nigeria,
the resort is located in the
highlands and deep tropical
forests of Cross River State.
Enjoy the cable cars, canopy
walkways and so much more
with your family.
Accomplish Magazine 61

Access
Holdings
Receives Karlsruhe
Award for Outstanding
Business Sustainability
Achievement for the
Eighth Consecutive Time
Presented at
the Global
Sustainable
Finance
Conference (GSFC)
organised by the
European Organisation for
Sustainable Development
(EOSD) in partnership with the
city of Karlsruhe, Germany, the Award
underscores the sustainability commitment
demonstrated in the way Access Holdings
conducts its business operations and
activities.
Delivering the opening remarks at the
Awards event, the Lord Mayor of Karlsruhe,
Dr. Frank Mentrup, lauded the unwavering
commitment of the organisations present
and urged all stakeholders to collaborate to
achieve the global sustainability vision.
OMOBOLANLE
VICTOR-LANIYAN
“In today’s globalised
world, the responsibility of
each one of us does not
end at our borders. We
need to work together to
make our world more just,
more peaceful, and more
sustainable. This requires a high
level of commitment and allocation
of resources – including finance and
investments,” Mentrup said.
Reiterating Access Holdings’ commitment
to driving the achievement of the SDGs,
Omobolanle Victor-Laniyan, Head, Group
Sustainability, at Access Holdings Plc
said, “We are pleased to receive the
Karlsruhe Award for Outstanding Business
Sustainability Achievement for the eighth
consecutive time. At Access Holdings,
we believe that businesses must play a
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CORPORATE
SUITE
significant role in addressing sustainability
challenges and driving positive impact. In
line with this, our approach to sustainability
reflects our dedication to creating long-term
value for our stakeholders in Africa and
beyond.”
The 2-day Global Sustainable Finance
Conference and Awards also had in
attendance other notable stakeholders
such as Arshad Rab, Chairman, International
Council of Sustainability Standards and
CEO, European Organisation for Sustainable
Development; Dr. Jesimen Chipika, Deputy
Governor, Reserve Bank of Zimbabwe;
Amaechi Okobi, Group Head, Corporate
Communications, Access Holdings Plc;
Rolando Victoria, President and CEO, Aski
Group, Philippines; Romani de Silva, Deputy
Chairman and CEO, Alliance Finance, Sri
Lanka; Mr. Krishnan Vimalanandavally Shaji,
Chairman, National Bank for Agriculture
and Rural Development, India; Mrs. Sylvi J.
Gani, Director, PT. Sarana Multi Infrastruktur
(Persero), Indonesia; Dr. Kao Thach, The
Delegate of the Royal Government of
Cambodia; Jide Akintunde, Director, Nigeria
Development and Finance Forum (NDFF) and
Nigeria Country Representative, European
Organization for Sustainable Development
(EOSD), and Tom Hoyem, Former Cabinet
Minister of the Kingdom of Denmark and
Member, City Council of Karlsruhe, Germany.
Access Holdings has been widely
recognised as one of Africa’s most
responsible companies, earning numerous
national and international honours and
awards including the World Finance Award
for Most Sustainable Bank (eleven-time
winner) and Global Brand Awards for Best
CSR Bank and Investor Relations (four-time
winner).
Accomplish Magazine 63

ZENITH BANK SIGNS
AGREEMENT WITH
AfCFTA TO DEVELOP
SMARTAfCFTA
PORTAL
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CORPORATE
SUITE
Zenith Bank Plc has
signed a Memorandum
of Understanding
(MoU) with the African
Continental Free Trade
Area (AfCFTA) Secretariat
for the development of the
SMARTAfCFTA Portal, for trade
promotion within the African
continent. The SMARTAfCFTA
Portal, which has the capacity
to provide information like
trade indicators, market
trends, custom tariffs, trade
agreements, rules of origin,
market access requirements
of relevant jurisdictions, export
potentials, export diversification
indicators and contact details
of business partners in target
markets and other traderelated
information about
Africa, will help to unlock the
vast opportunities for trade on
the African continent.
The MoU was signed by the
Group Managing Director/
CEO of Zenith Bank Plc, Dr.
Ebenezer Onyeagwu and the
Secretary-General of the AfCFTA
Secretariat, His Excellency
Wamkele Mene, during the 8th
Annual Edition of the Zenith
Bank International Trade
Seminar on Non-Oil Export
themed “Nigerian Non-Oil
Export Industry: The Present, The
Future”, held on Wednesday,
August 8, 2023, at the Civic
Centre, Victoria Island, Lagos
and virtually.
Speaking on the
partnership with AfCFTA
for the development of the
SMARTAfCFTA Portal, the
Group Managing Director/
CEO of Zenith Bank, Dr.
Ebenezer Onyeagwu, said: “This
collaboration aims to unlock the
vast opportunities presented
by AfCFTA not only for Nigeria’s
economic prosperity but also
for advancing trade across
African countries”.
Dr. Onyeagwu noted the
key role that the annual Zenith
Bank Trade Seminar plays in
deepening the conversation
on promoting non-oil export in
Nigeria by bringing together
non-oil export practitioners
and relevant government
agencies to interact and
explore the opportunities
and proffer solutions to the
challenges of non-oil export
in the country, noting that
previous editions’ outcomes
have found expression and
influenced policy initiatives.
For instance, the extension
of the period of repatriation
of Non-Oil Export proceeds
from 90 days to 180 days,
and the policy mandating
shippers not to carry export
without a Nigeria Export
Proceeds (NXP) Form Number
were recommendations
from previous seminars.
Also, the need to incentivise
exporters to repatriate their
export proceeds through
the official channels and the
recommendation to create
export terminals across various
export hubs in the country
were also from past seminars.
Also, previous editions
recommended having Export
Desks in commercial banks,
which has now been instituted.
In his keynote address at the
Zenith Bank International Trade
Seminar, the Secretary-General
of the AfCFTA Secretariat, His
Excellency Wamkele Mene,
thanked the Founder and
Chairman of Zenith Bank, Jim
Ovia, CFR, for partnering with
the AfCFTA for the development
of the SMARTAfCFTA Portal.
In his words: “Zenith Bank
was the first bank to say “we
want to partner with you”. We
went to see the Founder and
Chairman, and he said that
Zenith Bank wants to make a
contribution to digitise trade
in Africa. And so the portal
was not my idea, it was not our
idea at the AfCTA Secretariat,
it was Zenith Bank that
stepped up and said, ‘this has
to be done!’. So I want to thank
you very much, GMD for this
collaboration.”
In his goodwill message, Dr.
Kingsley Obiora, the Deputy
Governor of Economic Policy
representing the Acting
Governor of the Central Bank
of Nigeria, Mr. Folashodun
Adebisi Shonubi, commended
Zenith Bank for leading
Nigeria’s non-oil export
promotion advocacy. He
bemoaned the 1.2 per cent
non-oil export to total GDP
ratio and emphasised the
need for concerted efforts
to boost non-oil exports in
Nigeria.
Zenith Bank launched the
Non-Oil Export Seminar in 2016
as an initiative to deepen
the discourse on promoting
the non-oil export business in
Nigeria. The 2023 International
Trade Seminar also featured
a goodwill message from
the Secretary of the National
Action Committee on AfCFTA,
Mr. Olusegun Awolowo.
There were also two-panel
discussions, with the first panel
discussion titled: “Nigeria
Non-Oil Export Industry –
Growth Opportunities”, while
the second panel discussion
was titled: “Harnessing the
Opportunities in Service
Export”.
Accomplish Magazine 65

APPEAL TO VOTERS
By Diiyi William-West
Not a few Nigerians
have lost hope in
their patriotic preelection
pursuit to
take back Nigeria
from the admixture
of cabals and deceptive fiends
in power! Many Nigerians think
that the horde of the crooked
in the corridors of power, the
self-serving equivocators in
the kitchens of power and
the band of hypocrites in the
tributaries of power have
totally overran the movement
that sought to entrench real,
progressive and pan-Nigeria
development; equitable
development that shall be
driven by true appreciation
of the numerous human and
natural resources the country
is bless with and equitable
harnessing and exploitation of
same for equitable benefiting
of the peoples of the country.
Let’s say it as it is. The fears
of those who have embraced
doubts and despair in the
fulfillment of the loud hopes
of the many who lined up at
polling stations across the
country on February 18, 2023
can’t be laughed at or taken
for granted. It looks quite like
their fears are true and their
preferred candidate’s case in
the chambers of the Law are
dead on arrival.
Making the effort to
appreciate why those patriots
bear flagging faith is the
reason we should continue to
point out why the seeming lull
of apparent activism should
not be taken for the defeat of
our patriotic cause. Those of us
who understand the unfolding
realities at the Presidential
Election Petitions Tribunal’s
proceedings should continue to
point out how incontrovertible
facts and truth can’t cower
to steeped falsehoods,
desperately reactive
shenanigans and panic-driven
propaganda. Rather than get
vexed with the recent doubters
among us or even mocking
them, we should caringly help
them to rise in faith again by
pointing out how unfolding
facts can’t be buried with legal
technicalities if the judges are
conscientious.
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IN DESPAIR
LAST WORD
We shall enjoy a lasting
victory shout! And, the real but
delayed greatness of Nigeria
will soar!
While we wait with positive
expectation at the outcome
of what looks like a longwinding
legal battle, let us
seek innovative ideas and take
necessary steps to increase
our respective incomes
legitimately to stand above
recent government policies
that are afflicting our financial
wellbeing.
Please, let us all keep up our
good work on all fronts and all
our spheres of influence going.
HAPPY NEW MONTH!
Let all concerned persons
rest assured that by the grace
of God and the efforts of our
persona directly or indirectly
involved in the legal battle
at the Presidential Election
Petitions Tribunal, we shall be
the ones rejoicing with the
victory shout! Oh yes! We may
be dragged to the Appeal
Court and the Supreme Court.
Just keep warming your victoryshout
engines! Yes, of course,
sustain powerful, animated
prayers too! We can’t over-pray
even as diligent legal steps are
being taken in the courts.
The walls of the ‘Jericho
cabals ‘ are already falling!
We shall have the last laugh!
Diiyi
William-West
AUTHOR BIO
More fondly known as
DDWEST, he has several
years of media practice
experience spanning
magazines, newspapers,
television and radio; laying
emphasis on maintaining
standards in media
practice. He practised and
lectured Public Relations
for nearly a decade before
going into leadership
consulting and real estate
consultancy.
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