The city of Mississauga in Ontario, Canada was agog with the display of Nigeria and Africa’s rich cultural heritage at the maiden edition of The Drum Festival, (Ayan-Agalu) with the theme “Rejigging Yoruba Cultural Heritage: As Catalyst for National and International Unity, Progress and Development on July 28, 2023. The cultural fiesta which was organized by The Drum Online Media Incorporation, was well packaged and attended by the crème de la crème eminent personalities, such as government functionaries, royal fathers, political and religious leaders, cultural enthusiasts, socialites among others, from The North America, Europe, Asia, Africa, especially from Nigeria. The maiden edition festival was celebrated uniquely with the massive turnout of tourists, from within Canada and abroad, visitors, fun seekers, journalists, and residents. Various dance groups from Brazil, Iran, Uganda, Kenya, Nigeria communities in Canada and drummers played to the admiration of culture enthusiasts. People were fed with different kinds of local and continental foods. In his welcome address, Publisher of the Drum Online Media Incorporation and convener of the Drum Festival (Ayan-Agalu) Festival, Prince Segun Akanni said the prestigious event could not have come up as a better time and moment given the avalanche of social, economic, political and religious challenges plaguing Africa as a continent. In his words “There can be no gainsaying that the festival’s theme “Rejigging Yoruba Cultural Heritage as Catalyst for National and International Unity, Progress and Development- The Ayan-Agalu Example” is not only apt but timely given the legion of cultural erosion and neglect of core societal values that has pervaded most African countries, especially among the Yorubas’ of Southwest in Nigeria”. Celebrating culture through the drums reinforces our collective desire and zeal to rejuvenate our moribund cultural heritages. My involvement in the preservation, restoration, promotion of Africa’s and Yoruba’s Cultural Heritage and values dates back to over twenty years,
Metro
Adron Homes Extend Tentacles, Launches Snowfall Park and Gardens Estate in Jos
In a bid to extend its tentacles by building cities and communities creating a soft landing for low-income earners to become homeowners across the country; leading Real estate firm, Adron Home and Properties has launched a new estate named Snowfall Park and Gardens Estate in Jos; Plateau State in the North Central Region of Nigeria. During the grand opening of the estate by the Group Managing Director of Adron Homes; Aare Adetola Emmanuel-King, he divulged that Adron Home is not relenting in his oars in taking over the real estate business with affordable housing in Nigeria. The real estate mogul reiterates that his team is working assiduously to ensure they cover more locations across the country to assist middle-class and low-income earners in transit from being a tenant to becoming a landlord. He further stated that; Adron Homes is bridging the gap in housing deficit in the country in line with its mission statement which is to give tenants the power to decide their faith in building their dream home at an affordable price with a seamless payment method. “It’s a groundbreaking event here and we are excited. We can’t wait to replicate our magic wand here in Jos. Jos is a prime location blessed with a robust culture, welcoming ambiance, and accommodating people.” “The cold weather also attracts foreign tourists which has made it a tourism and agricultural hub in the country. We are here to change the narrative by making more people landlords by building communities as we have done in Lagos, Ogun, Oyo, Ekiti, Osun, Niger, and Abuja. We are ready to make Snowfall Park and Garden Estate envy for all.” According to Aare Adetola, plots of land are currently selling at a cheaper price with a seamless payment plan that allows customers to pay in instalments by spreading their
Sweden announces s3x as sport, to host first s3x competition on June 8
Sweden has officially declared sex as a sport and finalised arrangements to launch its maiden sex tournament on Thursday, June 8. The contestants in the sex tournament will have daily sexual encounters that can last up to six hours. According to Swedish local media, a panel of judges will select the winners of the sex competition, and the audience will also share opinions and analyses on the choices. The European Sex Championship slated for June 8 is scheduled to last for six weeks, as participants will engage in sexual activity daily for 45 to one hour depending on the length of their bouts. The report disclosed that the competition has three levels, and in order to advance to the next level, the contestant must obtain a certain minimum number of points at each one. The sex contenders have the opportunity to earn between 5 and 10 points in each discipline, which are decided by a mix of public votes and a panel of five judges. According to the report, the audience will watch the sex competitions and will take note of various features of the sexual activity. The couple’s chemistry, their understanding of sex, their level of endurance, and other vital sexual features will all be considered when deciding who emerges winner. The head of the Swedish Federation of Sex, Dragan Bratych, said he hoped that one day sex would be regarded as a sport globally. He underlined the value of education and the possibility that engaging in sexual activity can improve one’s physical and mental health. “Like any sport, getting the results you want in sex requires training,” he stated. As a result, competition will inevitably start to develop in this area as well. He emphasised the unique aspects of this sport, where the object is to make the opponent extremely happy. He added the ability of the competitor to satisfy
Ikeja Electric, Sahara Group Foundation Build Travelers’ Lodge for Ipaja Police Divisional Headquarters
Nigeria’s leading Electricity Distribution Company, Ikeja Electric Plc (IE) has built and commissioned a brand-new travelers lodge for police officers in transit, at the Ipaja Police Divisional Headquarters, Alagolo, Lagos state. The project, which was executed through Sahara Group Foundation, the corporate social sustainability vehicle for the Sahara Group, is in line with IE’s commitment to impacting the environment where she operates through sustainable interventions that helps to make a positive difference in the society. Speaking at the commissioning ceremony, Folake Soetan, Chief Executive Officer of Ikeja Electric said “the new traveler’s lodge would help to boost the morale of the Police officers in the station. Therefore, promoting efficiency, as well as an enabling environment for them.” She also reinforced Ikeja Electric commitment to supporting sustainable development across its host communities and environs through projects like this. Contributing to improved wellbeing for all. The Ipaja Police Station travelers’ lodge features a range of facilities and amenities, including a two- room hostel block with lavatory and kitchen fittings, overhead tank for water supply, wardrobes, reading tables and chairs. Also speaking at the commissioning event, Ejiro Gray, Director, Sahara Group Foundation, said “the decision to build this traveler’s lodge was an easy one, as it helps to reflect the Foundation’s commitment to supporting improved security across communities, in ways that enhance the efficiency of the police force thereby promoting sustainable societies”. Gray also thanked the officers of the Ipaja Police Divisional Headquarters, Alagolo, for providing adequate support during the construction of the lodge, stating that the importance of collaboration cannot be overstated if we are to improve security in our society. In his remarks, the Deputy Commissioner of Police, Lagos state, DCP Ewah Bassey, thanked both Ikeja Electric and the Sahara Group Foundation for the traveler’s lodge. He also endorsed the message of collaboration, stating that “achieving effective policing
Children’s Day 2023: Davido Joins Wema Bank To Empower Teenagers With Skills Acquisition
Wema Bank Plc, the leading innovative financial institution in Nigeria, has celebrated the 2023 Children's Day with a remarkable initiative aimed at equipping teenagers with valuable skills in coding, data analysis, graphics design, and much more. As part of the empowerment program, the bank arranged a surprise visit from renowned Nigerian music artist, Davido, to further add excitement and inspiration to the day. Children's Day serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of nurturing the younger generation and providing them with opportunities to excel. Wema Bank, which is known for its commitment to innovation and empowerment, took a proactive approach in celebrating this day by organizing a skills acquisition program. The focus on coding, data analysis, and graphics design reflects the growing importance of digital skills in today's world. Participants in the program had the unique opportunity to learn and engage with industry experts, acquiring practical knowledge and developing their capabilities in coding, data analysis, and graphics design. This initiative aimed to equip teenagers with essential skills for the future, empowering them to embrace the digital age and thrive in an increasingly technology-driven world. "At Wema Bank, we believe in investing in the future of our children. Our celebration of Children's Day with the skills acquisition program signifies our commitment to equipping teenagers with relevant digital skills. By partnering with experts and influencers like Davido, we aim to inspire and empower the younger generation, enabling them to embrace new opportunities and excel in the digital landscape.", stated Divisional Head, People, Brand & Culture, Wema Bank Ololade Ogungbenro, in her address to the participants. The arrival of Davido, Wema Bank Brand Ambassador and a prominent figure in the entertainment industry, turned up the excitement and added inspiration to the participants. The presence of the music superstar and entrepreneur further underscored Wema Bank's commitment to celebrating
LAGOS GOVT, FIRST BANK PARTNER TO BOOST HEALTHCARE DELIVERY IN IJE-ODODO COMMUNITY
…Over 10,000 residents to benefit from new primary healthcare centre BY EDU ABADE In a bid to boost healthcare delivery to thousands of residents, the Lagos State Government has built and unveiled a new Primary Healthcare Centre (PHC) in Ije-Ododo Community, Iba Local Council Development Area (LCDA), under the Ojo Council Area of the state. The facility, which has been under construction since 2021 in partnership with First Bank of Nigeria Limited, was unveiled in the community in an opening ceremony attended by the Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu, representatives of the state government, the state Primary Health Care Board, community leaders, as well as traditional rulers of Iba, Ije-Ododo and Ijagemo, among others. In his welcome address, the governor, who was represented by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mrs. Folashade Sherifat Jaji, said the opening of the health facility under the SSG’s One Community At A Time (OCAAT) initiative, formed part of activities to herald the inauguration of his second term in office on Monday, May 29, 2023. Maintaining that the attention being paid to the healthcare sector was deliberate to ensure a healthier populace, he said the state government under his watch would deploy more resources to the health sector for easier access to health services, especially in underserved communities. He enjoined members of the community to take full advantage of the health benefits that will be provided in the facility and charged them to take ownership and protect the assets and the facility at all times. Speaking, Permanent Secretary, Primary Healthcare Board, Dr. Ibrahim Mustapha, commended First Bank of Nigeria Limited and the contractor for completing the project within the stipulated time frame, but also requested more assistance to make the facility functional by providing equipment and other necessary medical gadgets. On his part, Chief Executive Officer of FirstBank, Dr. Adesola Adeduntan, who was represented
Two EKEDC Officials Electrocuted In Lagos – Naijanewsdirect
The Police Command in Lagos State on Sunday confirmed the electrocution of two members of staff of the Eko Electricity Distribution Company (EKEDC) in Lagos State. The incident took place in the Obalande area of Lagos Island. The Police Public Relations Officer in Lagos, SP Benjamin Hundeyin confirmed the incident. Mr. Hundeyin said the case was reported to the Lion Building Division of the command on Saturday at about 5.55 pm, by another member of staff of the EKEDC from Lagos Island. He said the EKEDC worker reported that on Saturday, one of his colleagues simply identified as Umaru, 51 years old, allegedly got electrocuted while digging to locate a faulty transformer cable at the P&T Obalende area. “In the process, another colleague named Sunday Awaruwa, 48-year-old, who tried to rescue the victim was also electrocuted. “Based on the report, detectives visited and photographed the scene, rescued the victims, and rushed them to the Lagos Island General Hospital, where they were confirmed dead by the doctor on duty. “Their remains were deposited at the IDH Morgue, Yaba for autopsy. Meanwhile, investigation is in progress,” he said. Courtesy: NAN
Chief R.O Ore: Remembering A Consummate Mobiliser, Teacher, Politician 25 Years After His Demise
For youngsters and even the old, who grew up and lived in Ayetoro Gbede, Ijumu Local Government area of Kogi State in the 1980s and early 1990s, the sight and sound of a megaphone wielding Chief Raphael Olorunfemi Ore will most certainly and always bring back fond memories of nostalgia, of their early years growing up and the sheer conviviality and serenity of their beloved hometown. Though Ayetoro Gbede is home to several iconic figures and men who distinguished themselves in the service of the community and humanity in that era, Chief R.O Ore, as he was fondly called, stands out for many reasons. Two of the very popular songs many will always remember Chief R.O Ore for include omi ero l’Ayetoro Gbede and Ayetoro Day, Ayetoro Day, songs that drummed support and encouraged government to give the fast expanding town pipe borne water and also mobilising indigenes and residents for the annual Ayetoro Gbede Day celebrated on the 26th of December. It was common place to see the revered chief go from street to street with his megaphone singing and mobilising indigenes and residents alike, with youngsters trooping to watch him do his thing with admiration. Early Life, Education and Work Chief R.O Ore was born to the family of Chief Abraham Elea Ore and Mrs Mesele Ore in Ayetoro Gbede, now in Ijumu Local Government Area of Kogi State in 1935 Like every other child in that era, Chief R.O Ore grew up in the farmstead, helping his father in the farm, but off course, he had his eyes on being educated. He started his education at LEA primary School Ayetoro Gbede before proceeding to Offa Grammar School, Offa, Kwara State. He however left Offa Grammar School in 1958 to become to become a teacher at Ayeh Gbede, where he taught for 3 years before proceeding to Gombe Teachers College After
Realtors Hangout: “Show Tenacity To Curb Nigeria’s Housing Deficit”, Metro & Castle Boss, Adekunle Abdul Urges Realtors
Metro & Castle boss, Adekunle Abdul, has urged realtors to be tenacious in order to curb Nigeria's housing deficit. Adekunle Abdul made this known on Saturday, 6th May, 2023, when he hosted stakeholders to brainstorm on issues affecting the housing industry. The event was held in Lagos at the premises of one of the newly built facilities at Metro Homes in Lekki axis of the State, and was well-attended by notable personalities in real estate and other business sectors. Speaking to journalists, the Chief Executive Officer of Metro & Castle Limited, Mr. Adekunle Abdul said what inspired him to venture into real estate started while he was in a construction management school in the US. He said; "Real estate for me started after I realized that anytime I come to Nigeria, housing was more or less almost impossible for some people. I decided to relocate back to Nigeria in 2018 and embarked on affordable housing for the people. So, our goal is to ensure that there is a roof over everybody's head even if you don't have money, you can work out a mortgage plan for yourself. And majority of our clients are people in the diaspora because of my background of education and because some of them have trust issues. So they rather deal with who they know and who have some kind of integrity. Also, those who decided to move back to Nigeria to buy a property have been able to do so through us. He said; "At Metro Homes, we keep to our promises of providing electricity, swimming pool, gym house among others. Currently, we are on 66 hectares of land and we will keep moving from place to place because we are coming up with all kinds of apartments like terraces, smaller terraces, even single-family houses this year and in the
5,000 Corps Members Set to Graduate From Polaris Bank DigiCorper Training Programme
...Beneficiaries Express Gratitude Fresh graduates serving under the National Youth Service Scheme ( NYSC) across 12 States have commended Polaris Bank for enhancing their digital literacy skills and preparing them for the emerging opportunities in Nigeria's digital economy. Polaris Bank, in partnership with the NYSC and Nerdz Factory, had in November 2022 commenced a high-impact capacity-building workshop on digital skills targeted at 5,000 National Youth Service Corps members across 12 states in Nigeria. The 6-month training program aims to equip fresh graduates with the necessary skills to thrive. Providing a progress report on the initiative, Polaris Bank's Group Head, Strategic Brand Management, Nduneche Ezurike said that the programme aims to equip young Nigerians with relevant work-ready digital skills on innovation, creativity and digital skills, as well as develop their business acumen. He further noted that "the Bank understands the importance of digital literacy in today's job market. That's why we are committed to helping fresh graduates improve their skills through our training program. We believe that by doing so, we are helping them succeed in their careers and contributing to the growth and development of the national economy as a whole." Commending the programme, Halimah Usman noted: "I am grateful to the Bank for providing me with the opportunity to improve my digital skills through their training programme. The skills I have acquired will help me secure a job in the digital marketing industry, and I am confident that with these skills, I will be able to succeed in my career." Eze Obioma, another Corps member participating in the training, said: "The Bank's training programme is a step in the right direction, and it is hoped that other organizations will follow suit in helping fresh graduates develop the digital skills they need to succeed in their careers". Another participant, Ajayi Adeyemi, added, "The trainers were very supportive, and