Do you see how 2024 is behaving? Not very demure, not very mindful.
Because the past 12 months have been packed with news that's done more damage to the Internet than the seemingly endless memes…
Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior, has reiterated the commitment of President Bola Tinubu to improve the culture and tourism sector in Nigeria.
Tunji-Ojo made the emphasis at the 100-year anniversary of Oke-Agbe community in Akoko North West Local Government Area of Ondo State on Sunday.
According to him, the president, with the rebranding of the Ministry of Art, Culture, Tourism, and Creative Economy (FMACTCE), is passionate about the country’s cultural heritage, peace and unity.
“We aim to foster culture and inclusivity by celebrating Nigeria’s diverse identity and empowering economic opportunities through the creative industries.
“The president [Tinubu] has rebranded the Ministry of Creative Economy and Tourism, which has been living up to expectations, and the Federal Executive Council (FEC) has also approved the creative industry.
“I also congratulate our people in Oke-Agbe over the 100 years of unification, harmony, and co-existence, and we are looking forward to the year full of bliss,” he said.
Also, Gov. Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State urged traditional rulers in the state to continue promoting thier various cultures.
Aiyedatiwa, represented by the state Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Mr Rasheed Badmus, also tasked Oke-Agbe community to continue to maintain the path of peace and unity.
“We are happy that there is peace everywhere in Ondo State.
“For instance, we have four traditional rulers here, and they are all living as one, so we want them to continue in that spirit.
“We believe in our traditional leaders. Once there is peace among traditional rulers, it will be easier for us to promote our culture,” the governor said.
Responding on behalf of the traditional rulers in the community, the Ajana of Afa Okeagbe, Oba Mofolorunso Arasanyin, extolled the virtues of Tunji-Ojo and Aiyedatiwa.
He also noted that the prevailing peace in the community would be sustained
For a better society
_______________________________
Follow us across our platforms:
Instagram – https://www.instagram.com/championnewsonline/
Facebook – https://web.facebook.com/championnewsonline
LinkedIn – https://www.linkedin.com/company/champion-newspapers-limited/
https://x.com/championnewsng/
You can also like and comment on our YouTube videos.
https://youtu.be/QIBfD1tT80w?si=R4Qf3so2LxYu3GC2
Renowned actress Ayo Adesanya issues a cautionary message to young girls, urging them to avoid the fast money routes, including hookup culture.
Speaking during an interview with Saturday Beats, the actress emphasized the importance of making wise choices, especially during the festive season.
Adesanya expressed concern over the failure of many parents to adequately guide their children in navigating life’s challenges. She stressed that success requires hard work and patience, warning against the illusion of shortcuts.
“Many of us who ought to be mentors have taught the children terrible things. To the young girls, your parents can’t teach you everything, but know that many of what you see on the internet are fake,” she said.
Addressing the rising trend of hookups for fast money, Adesanya highlighted the dangers of such practices, urging young women to be prayerful and cautious.
She noted, “Young girls need to know there is no easy money out there. With the kind of economic meltdown across the world, one can barely give you anything for free. If he is not collecting your destiny for an exchange, he is grooming you for something.”
The Federal Government is set to launch a digital repository of Nigeria’s cultural practices and traditions known as “DuduPlugs.”
“DuduPlugs is a cutting-edge global digital platform developed by ACITeksystem, a Nigerian-American company, in collaboration with the National Institute for Cultural Orientation (NICO).
Otunba Biodun Ajiboye, Executive Secretary/CEO of NICO, at the pre-launch on Tuesday in Abuja, said DuduPlugs allow users to explore, share, and celebrate nine distinct cultural categories.
They include music, fashion, art, film, food, dance, green/artistic building, technology, language, and literature using technology as an enabler.
Ajiboye said the platform would serve as a repository and connecting platform for Nigeria’s culture and creativity, as well as increase international exposure of Nigeria’s cultural assets and ingenuity.
“This seamless combination of social connectivity aims to promote and preserve Nigeria’s rich cultural heritage with the view to passing it down to younger generations.
“It will attract global acceptance and accessibility; attract foreign exchange earnings as well as evoke appreciation of the Nigerian culture, thereby strengthening its economy and international image.
“You will agree with me that today, our nation bleeds for lack of inflow of foreign exchange, and even internal production is stifling.
“This is why we have decided to think outside the box to use culture, a hitherto forgotten sector, to rescue this impending catastrophe within our own space and ability.
“DuduPlugs also seeks to position Nigeria as a prime cultural destination, promoting tourism and global appreciation of the country’s heritage.
“It will serve as an accessible educational resource and foster collaborations between cultural organisations, government agencies, and individuals to create a sustainable platform for cultural preservation and knowledge-sharing,” he said.
Foluke Michael, the project management executive, said the project was over 80 per cent completed and, when launched, would serve as a tool for cultural diplomacy for Nigeria and create jobs for its teeming youths.
“Dudu Plugs is coming at this time to reintroduce Nigeria in a positive light with 9 Plugs, including culture, art, and creativity, and bringing them together is possible in Nigeria.
“I also want the world to know that we are not just cut out for what they read in the news, and there is something positive about our nation.
“This project is actually domiciled in America, and that is why we keep saying Nigerian-American organisation, as we are a group of passionate Nigerians telling Nigeria’s story,” she said.
In her address, Hannatu Musawa, Minister of Art, Culture, and Creative Economy, lauded NICO for championing the initiative, adding that the platform would endear Nigeria’s rich cultural and creative sectors to the world.
Musawa, who was represented by Ibiene Roberts, Permanent Secretary in the ministry, said the platform would serve as a veritable tool for national unity.
“As we unveil DuduPlugs today, may it serve as a symbol of unity and pride in our cultural heritage because it reflects the colours, stories, and experiences that define who we are as a people.
“I, therefore, encourage each of you to embrace this initiative to engage with what the platform provides and to collaborate in celebrating our unique narratives.
“Our celebration of life through our numerous festivals will also be projected to an audience in the Diaspora, which encompasses Brazil, Cuba, Trinidad and Tobago, Jamaica, and the large African-American population.
“They are not only thirsty for a substantial taste of our vibrant Nigerian cultures but are also yearning for a return to their roots,” she said.
In his goodwill message, Bayo Onanuga, Special Advisor to the President on Information and Strategy, commended the Ajiboye-led management of NICO for the initiative.
He said that the President Bola Tinubu administration was committed to ensuring that the culture and creative sectors become robust sources of national income and job creation.
NAN reports that top government functionaries, including heads of agencies under the Federal Ministry of Arts, Culture, and Creative Economy, were present at the pre-launch event.
ALSO READ THESE TOP STORIES FROM NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
Africa is a continent with a rich history in culture and modern technology. It has undergone a massive transformation from its apparent “backward background” to a more innovative example. African celebrities and other innovators have come forward to embrace the cultural and technological aspects of Africa by presenting themselves as great examples to accelerate its dynamics.
From flagship technological projects to promoting sustainable business models, they are driving change by not only inspiring fans but also changing entire industries. In this blog, we’ll look into four celebrities who have positively influenced the changes in Africa through cultural activities, technological mindset and more.
Let’s start from the fact that the boom of cryptocurrencies does not know geographic limits, hence many countries around the world are highly invested in this new form of financial innovation. The wave of interest comes from different industries adopting crypto as a primary payment method, and one brilliant example is the online gaming and casino industry, which could transform the traditional game of slot machines into contemporary Bitcoin slots and crypto slots. But why would a crypto game attract so many people around the globe?
The main benefit lies in how crypto games have faster and more secure transactions that offer a smooth user experience. Unlike the normal payment methods which take time and are prone to leaks, crypto is becoming popular due to the way technology has integrated as a financial instrument to facilitate transactions in a much better way. In the case of online gaming, the way crypto ensures anonymity and speed is what makes it popular in different regions including Africa.
You are currently viewing a placeholder content from Default. To access the actual content, click the button below. Please note that doing so will share data with third-party providers.
Now this popularity has allowed celebrities and other innovators to explore the power of cryptocurrencies. A standout example of this in Africa is Akon. The Senegalese-American musician has deeply understood the value of cryptocurrencies and decided to start his own project, called Akoin. The project aims to provide a decentralized financial instrument that can encourage and empower economic growth in many parts of Africa and the globe.
The birth of this project is not just for investors and ordinary people to use it as a coin, but more to make a statement and to break the traditional barriers associated with traditional banking. The project is also aimed to create a self-sustaining city in Senegal called “Akon City” which will fully operate on Akoin as its base for transactions.
Nigeria is also seeing an eco-friendly initiative from a famous musician who has constantly advocated for green solutions. Yemi Alade has been an advocate for promoting environmental and sustainable practices in the lives of Africans and Nigerians. She has been a frequent advocate for using her platform to support African heritage and partnering up with local fashion designers to design eco-friendly fashion that aligns with Africa’s culture.
One of the best moves made by Yemi Alade as part of her eco-friendly initiative is to collaborate with Nigerian fashion designers to create clothes and fashion that focus on ethical production. This sets an example of how style and sustainability can go together and help African designers gain international recognition.
Many celebrities and inventors who are not even related to Africa have understood the technological and geographical importance of Africa in business and innovation. Elon Musk, although not born in Africa, has embraced his South African roots by focusing his global connectivity project “Starlink” on Africa. Starlink is a high-connectivity satellite project by SpaceX to deliver high-speed connections even to remote parts of the world, and in the case of Africa, the entry of Starlink seems like a good place to start and test its effectiveness.
African countries like Nigeria, Kenya, and South Africa are beginning to explore and integrate Starlink to provide reliable internet access everywhere which could open doors for more educational institutions, research centers, telemedicine, and entrepreneurship all over the continent. This can enable millions of Africans to globally connect with the world and empower them to be more forward-thinking and know more about the digital economy and world with this simple innovation by Elon Musk.
Now coming to art, Kenyan actress Lupita Nyong’o has been a great supporter of spreading Africa’s art and storytelling to the rest of the world. Through her platform, she has been able to voice her opinion on African art and filmography and advocated the need to include and support African narratives. She has also collaborated with filmmakers and other artists across Africa to bring their artistic innovations to the global screen.
She has also regularly used social media to highlight the importance of African media, art, and culture and the need to preserve Africa’s history and heritage through cultural appreciation. Her influence can be set forward as an example of what artists must do to preserve the very core of their roots.
To sum everything up, African and international celebrities have come forward to realize the importance of the core dynamics of African culture by bringing innovations in culture, technology, and more. They have successfully used their influence and resources to inspire fans and followers to take pride in Africa’s heritage and work towards a more sustainable and connected future.
The governorship candidate of the Labour Party, LP in Imo State, Senator Nnejilenanim Athan Achonu, has expressed deep concerns over the current political culture in Nigeria where the judiciary, rather than the electorate, determine election outcomes.
Achonu, who called out the ruling All Progressives Congress, APC for allegedly manipulating election results and displaying arrogance by directing opposition parties to seek redress in court, warned that it was a dangerous trend that should alarm every patriotic Nigerian.
He also criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, accusing it of functioning as an extension of the APC, thus compromising the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The Labour Party chieftain lamented that the judiciary has been unable to ensure that INEC adheres to proper procedures in election petition matters, further eroding public trust in the electoral process.
In a statement released on Tuesday, Achonu, while reflecting on the legal battle over the November 11, 2023, Governorship Election, which culminated in a Supreme Court verdict, stated that he respects the judiciary’s role but voiced his dissatisfaction with the circumstances surrounding the judgment.
He stressed that his concerns were driven by a commitment to justice and fairness rather than personal bitterness.
Part of the statement reads, “While I respect the judiciary as the final arbiter in our legal system, I must express my deep concerns regarding the circumstances surrounding this judgment.
“These concerns are not borne out of bitterness but out of a steadfast commitment to the principles of justice and fairness that our democracy should uphold.
“It is worthy of mention that a dangerous and unhealthy political culture has been introduced by the ruling party, the APC. They manipulate election results and, in a brazen display of arrogance, tell the opposition to go to court.
”It is clear now that in Nigeria, it is no longer the people who decide who wins an election; it is the judiciary. The audacity of this practice, where the judiciary’s pronouncements outweigh the people’s votes, should alarm every patriotic Nigerian.
“It has also become painfully evident that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has become another arm of the ruling party, the APC, turning our entire democratic institution into a mere circus.
“Unfortunately, the Judiciary is not able to ensure INEC does the right thing in election petition matters such as this.”
Achonu also criticized what he termed as “deliberate misinformation” by Osita Chidoka, regarding comments made on Channels TV before the Supreme Court’s final ruling.
He suggested that Chidoka’s remarks seemed strategically aimed at conditioning public perception in favor of a predetermined outcome.
“Let us also reflect on what looks like deliberate misinformation by Osita Chidoka, which he presented on Channels TV a day before the final judgment by the Supreme Court on the Imo State Governorship Election debacle.
“His presentation seemed like a strategic act to condition the minds of the people on a predetermined outcome. On one hand, he acknowledged that there was an illegality (over-voting), on the other he suggested that the same process that gave birth to the illegality can be trusted to wear the robe of legality. Be it as it may, this is a matter for another day.” Achonu stated.
Despite the judicial setback, Achonu vowed that the Labour Party and his campaign organization would continue to play a constructive role as the opposition.
He therefore urged his supporters and the people of Imo State to remain vigilant, calling for opposition politicking to be conducted with decency and decorum, for the collective good of the state.
“While I recognise the importance of unity and cooperation, I want to assure you that as the opposition, the Labour Party and my campaign organization will remain vigilant. We must play the role of an opposition guided by decency, decorum, and constructive criticism.
“Let us call out the government where it is failing and encourage it where it is doing well. Let us redefine how opposition politicking should be conducted, for Imo State is our collective patrimony.
“We must avoid anything that could tarnish our State’s image, impede its progress, or harm the livelihood of our people
Achonu finally expressed gratitude to his supporters, reaffirming his commitment to serving the people of Imo State and championing their interests.
He emphasized the importance of unity and cooperation in building a prosperous and sustainable Imo State.
In a bid to foster cultural and business ties, Crossroads of Culture Project between the City of Brampton and Nigeria is to encourage entrepreneurs, growth, promote cultural diversity, community bond and celebrate the contributions of Africans in Diaspora.
A statement by the Convener, Chuks Anyaduba, said as a maiden event, it will feature two flagship Afro Commerce Connect and the Flavours of Nigeria Festival in Canada.
According to the convener of the event, Anyaduba, “We are thrilled to bring together such dynamic events to Canada under the Crossroads of Culture Festival.”
Also, Mr Akin Oduntan, who is also a co-convener, opined that Afro Commerce Connect and the Flavours of Nigeria Festival offer unique opportunities to celebrate cultural heritage, support entrepreneurial growth, and strengthen community bonds.
“These events slated to take place August 9th and 10th, 2024, respectively, at Brampton City Hall arena noted that is also dedicated to fostering dialogue and connections within the Nigerian diaspora business community in Canada.
“It will explore the unique challenges and opportunities faced by other African entrepreneurs through engaging discussions, panels, and networking sessions.
Also, keynote speakers such as Jaipaul Massy-Singh, CEO Brampton Board of Trade and Clare Barnett Director, Brampton Economic Development will share insights on the role of Canadian government through Brampton Economic Community in supporting entrepreneurs and startups.
Panelists include Adewale Rabiu – CEO Grey Matlock Bakery, Jaipaul Massey-Singh – CEO Brampton Board of Trade, Maryam Muritala – Founder, Canada Vendors and Gillian Aideyan – of Century 21 Empire Realty.
The panel will be moderated by Uche Okugo – Investment Attraction Coordinator, Brampton.
While on August 10th, the festival will continue with the Flavours of Nigeria Festival at Ken Whillans Square, Brampton City Hall.
This vibrant event will celebrate the rich cultural heritage of Nigeria through its exquisite cuisine, lively music, captivating dance performances, and intricate arts.
The event will feature the presentation of the Special Culture Custodian Award to His Royal Majesty Ogiame Atuwase III, the Olu of Warri, in recognition of his exemplary leadership and significant contributions to the development and prosperity of the Warri Kingdom.
A massive tree planting culture is returning in Nigeria as the country plugs into global energy transition initiative.
As part of its unwavering commitment to environmental sustainability, the Nigerian Bottling Company (NBC) launched a nationwide tree-planting initiative to commemorate World Environment Day.
This effort, aligned with the theme “Land Restoration, Desertification, and Drought Resilience,” saw tree planting activities across Abuja, Lagos, Oyo, Edo, and Imo states.
In concurrence with these tree planting exercises, NBC organised roadshows, rallies, lectures, and symposiums to raise awareness about the benefits of tree planting and its positive impact on climate change.
Designated areas in Abuja, Owerri, Lagos, and Asejire, Oyo State, were also targeted to reinforce global efforts against climate change and desertification.
A highlight of the campaign in Lagos was an environmental sustainability event in partnership with LASPARK, LAWMA, and Hope for Life Initiative. This event engaged students of Oregun High School on the importance of annual tree planting.
Deputy Director, Mr. Victor Adedeji, representing LAWMA’s Managing Director, Dr. Muyiwa Gbadegeshin, emphasised the initiative’s role in providing students with practical tree-planting experience and raising climate change awareness.
Similarly, Assistant Director of LASPARK’s Tree Planting and Maintenance Department, Mrs. Adebimpe Kuponu, underscored the importance of ongoing tree-planting efforts in environmental preservation.
National Environment Manager of NBC,
Mr. Temitope Ogunrinde, highlighted the transgenerational impact of these tree-planting efforts and encouraged the students of Oregun High School to nurture and protect the newly planted trees, ensuring they benefit both current and future generations.
In Oyo, residents were encouraged to participate in gardening activities to combat desertification, in Benin, tree seedlings were distributed to strengthen drought resilience and a community cleanup exercise was organised.
In Owerri a nature walk was conducted to emphasize land restoration measures aimed at protecting the environment from drought.
Also as part of the Decarbonisation Initiative, the WEOG has initiated the planting of over 10 million special trees that have higher rates of carbon absorption.
National President of WEOG in Nigeria and CEO of Blackgold Energy Authorities, Oladunni Owo, made the disclosure during the Decarbonization Initiative Press Conference on Tuesday in Abuja.
Speaking on the theme “Collaboration, Innovation, and Action for a Low Carbon Oil & Gas Industry,” Owo noted that despite advancements in human investments and industrialization, there is more carbon in the atmosphere than is sustainable for human life.
Owo emphasised that, in Africa and Nigeria, there is a significant energy gap, so a diverse range of energy resources, including solar, wind, hydrogen, nuclear, and gas, is needed to close these gaps.
This is why WEOG is initiating the concept of bringing decarbonisation to the forefront.
New Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca, is looking to change the culture and bring more aggression into the team to turn around the fortunes of last season’s Premier League under-achievers.
Chelsea languished in mid-table for the larger period of the campaign before a late charge under former manager Mauricio Pochettino secured sixth place and qualification for the Europa Conference League.
Maresca, 44, guided Leicester City to promotion to the English top flight in his first season in charge.
“In this moment, when you join a club you try to analyse what the club and team needs to improve and do the right things,” Maresca said at his first news conference on Monday.
“For me, it’s clear we need to create as soon as possible the right mentality and culture, a culture the fans can be proud of.
“We are going to try to be an aggressive team on the ball and off the ball and we need to create this connection between the fans and the club, especially at home.”
Maresca is Chelsea’s seventh Italian manager and is aiming to follow compatriots Carlo Ancelotti, Antonio Conte and Roberto Di Matteo, who won six major trophies between them at the London club.
Welcome to DopeReporters, the leading resource for accurate, timely, and influential news. Covering important events in Nigeria and around the world is part of our mission to create stories that have an impact. Giving you a comprehensive perspective on politics, sports, entertainment, current events, and more is our goal.
©2022 DopeReporters. All Right Reserved. Designed and Developed by multiplatforms
