OU Journal

The President After My Heart

2012-01-25T17:41:00.001-05:00

Did you listen to Obama's State of the Union address?

Give me a BHO and I'll put GEJ up for barter. I mentioned in my review of GEJ's inaugural speech which was published in Punch Newspaper and OU Journal - Only once in Mr. President’s inaugural address did we see a [seeming] firm active voice, “The urgent task of my administration is to provide a suitable environment, for productive activities to flourish. I therefore call on the good people of Nigeria, to enlist as agents of this great transformation.” But even that was vague. A leader must have integrity and must be accountable; I mean a real active and vibrant leader.

Nigerians must be able to hold our president accountable. But how can we do that when manifesto and inaugural speech was filled with sensational statements? The entire 20-point inaugural speech can be broken into the following key messages:

1. Gratitude and appreciation for votes and promise of being worthy of our trust. Special appreciation of Nigerians for collective commitment to building a democratic country, of course PDP was specifically mentioned.

2. Acknowledgement of “brother heads of state and government” or representatives, chair person of African Union, world leaders, development partners and guests.

3. Salutation of his friend and brother, Mr. VP Sambo for being a pillar of support, First Lady, Madam Peace for galvanizing and mobilizing Nigerian women for the cause of democracy and salutation to his parents. Congratulations to elected Governors, Senators, members of the House of Representatives and those of the States Houses of Assembly.

4. Tribute to the late President, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and to Nigeria’s founding fathers for their enduring sacrifice

5. Acknowledgment of the over 70M that registered to vote and those who struggled against limitations and challenges to vote, and of the spirit of resilience to build a strong nation

6. Affirmation of Nigeria’s unity, unshakable determination to unite our nation and improve the living standards of all our peoples. Mr President’s confidence that a people that are truly committed to a noble ideal, cannot be denied the realization of their vision and an assurance that Nigeria’s dream that is so deeply felt by millions will indeed come to reality. An affirmation of the sacrifice that gave the people’s mandate to a candidate from the minorities.

7. A note of sympathy for a fan that overwhelmed by the joy of victory, after campaigning enthusiastically, collapsed and passed on three days later. A sympathetic acknowledgement of the many patriotic and diligent souls especially members of the Armed Forces and the NYSC that were lost in re-birthing our democracy

8. A charge to those elected for patriotism and passion, demonstrable leadership, statesmanship, vision, capacity, and sacrifice, to transform our nation to match the hopes and aspirations of the great people. We must strengthen common grounds, develop new areas of understanding and collaboration, and seek fresh ideas that will enrich our national consensus. It is the supreme task of this generation to give hope to the hopeless, strength to the weak and protection to the defenceless.

9. A promise of transformation in all the critical sectors, by harnessing the creative energies of our people.

10. A promise to grow the economy, create jobs, and generate enduring happiness for Nigerians and trust in the ability of Nigerians to transform Nigeria. “The urgent task of my administration is to provide a suitable environment, for productive activities to flourish. I therefore call on the good people of Nigeria, to enlist as agents of this great transformation”.

Unfortunately, we have had in the recent past, presidents who never chose to be president. Jonathan got their by luck, Yar'adua was a response to the North's prayer...

So we have occcupied Nigeria, occupied the media and even occupied external territories with protests that only seem to have made our corrupt learders position themselves to be innovate with regards to how they fool the citizenry. Despite the government’s win, the protest got a huge buy in this time because it went beyond organised labour.

But take a moment to trace to the past and you'd see a tradition... price hike, brouhaha, silly negotiations, back track to the actually intended hike which in this case was N100. So those in the corridors of power are actually laughing hopefully we can make them laugh from their behind.

The turnout was unprecedented so we should have insisted on N65 or nothing. But again, few corrupt folks in the corridor of power, a bunch of rich and equally corrupt supporters and a group of security dogs who feed on Naira outsmarted a country with over 150m people.

If nothing else, we must celebrate the little milestone we have made. Today, Nigerians are wiser especially considering the huge outflow of information that made it across the country and all over the world virally. The can of worms we have opened will keep crawling. I hope these worms will crawl all over every corrupt person and crawl over their humanhood and force them to be accountable and join the fight against corruption.

Subsidy Made Simple

2012-01-15T20:52:00.004-05:00

This is transcript of SMS by Pastor 'Tunde Bakare

FACTS YOU MUST KNOW: SUBSIDY MADE SIMPLE (SMS)

1) DEFINITION

To subsidise is to sell a product below the cost of production. Since the federal government has been secretive about the state of our refineries and their production capacity, we will focus on importation rather than production. So, in essence, within the Nigerian Fuel Subsidy context, to subsidise is to sell petrol below the cost of importation.

2) THE UNSUBSTANTIATED CLAIMS OF THE FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

The Nigerian government claims that Nigerians consume 34 million litres of petrol per day. The government has also said publicly that N141 per litre is the unsubsidised pump price of petrol imported into Nigeria. (N131.70 kobo being the landing price and N9.30 kobo being profit.)

3) ANNUAL COST OF IMPORTATION

Daily Fuel Consumption: 34 million litres
Cost at Pump: N141.00
No. of days in a regular year: 365 days

Total cost of all petrol imported yearly into Nigeria:
LitresxNairaxDays
34m x 141 x 365 = N1.75 trillion

4) COST BORNE BY THE CONSUMERS

Nigerians have been paying N65 per litre for fuel, haven’t we? Therefore, cost borne by the consumers =

LitresxNairaxDays
34m x 65 x 365 = N807 billion

5) COST OF SUBSIDY BORNE BY THE GOVERNMENT

In 2011 alone, government claimed to have spent N1.3 trillion by October – the bill for the full year, assuming a constant rate of consumption is N1.56 trillion.

Consequently, the true cost of subsidy borne by the government is:

Total cost of importation minus total borne by consumers, i.e. N1.75 trillion minus N807 billion = N943 billion.

Unexplainable difference: N617 billion

The Federal Government of Nigeria cannot explain the difference between the amount actually disbursed for subsidy and the cost borne by Nigerians (N1.56 trillion minus N943 billion = N617 billion).

6) BOGUS CLAIM BY THE GOVERNMENT

A government official has claimed that the shortfall of N617 billion is what goes to subsidising our neighbours through smuggling. This is pathetic. But let us assume (assumption being the lowest level of knowledge) that the government is unable to protect our borders and checkmate the brisk smuggling going on. Even then, the figures still don’t add up. This is because even if 50% of the petrol consumed in each of our neighbouring countries is illegally exported from Nigeria, the figures are still inaccurate. Why?

WORLD BANK’S FIGURES: POPULATIONS OF WEST AFRICAN COUNTRIES

NIGERIA: 158.4 million

BENIN: 8.8 million

TOGO: 6 million

CAMEROUN: 19.2 million

NIGER: 15.5 million

CHAD: 11.2 million

GHANA: 24.4 million

The total population of all our six (6) neighbours is 85.5 million.

Let’s do some more arithmetic:

a) Rate of Petrol Consumption in Nigeria: Total consumed divided by total population:
34 million litres divided by 158.8 million people = 0.21 litres per person per day

b) Rate of Petrol Consumption in all our 6 neighbouring countries, assumed to be the same as Nigeria:
0.2 litres x 85.5 million people = 18.35 million litres per day

Now, if we assume that 50% of the petrol consumed in all the six neighbouring countries comes from Nigeria, this value come to 9.18 million litres per day.

7) PATHETIC ABSURDITY

There are two illogicalities flowing from this smuggling saga.

a) If 9.18 million litres of petrol is truly smuggled out of our borders per day, then ours is the most porous nation in the word. This is why: The biggest fuel tankers in Nigeria have a capacity of about 36,000 litres. To smuggle 9.18 million litres of fuel, you need 254 trucks. What our government is telling us is that 254 huge tankers pass through our borders every day and they cannot do anything about it. This is not just acute incompetence, but also a serious security challenge. For if the government cannot stop 254 tanker trailers from crossing the border daily, how can they stop importation of weapons or even invasion by a foreign country?

b) 2nd illogicality: Even if we believe the government and assume that about 9.18 million litres is actually taken to our neighbours by way of smuggling every day, and all this is subsidised by the Nigerian government, the figures being touted as subsidy still don’t add up. This is why:

Difference between pump price before and after subsidy removal =
N141.00 – N65.00 = N76.00

Total spent on subsidizing petrol to our neighbours annually =
N76.00 x 9.18 million litres x 365 days = N255 billion

If you take the N255 billion away from the N617 billion shortfall that the government cannot explain, there is still a shortfall of N362 billion. The government still needs to tell us what/who is eating up this N362 billion ($2.26 billion USD).

8) ILLOGICAL ASSUMPTIONS

i) We have assumed that there are no working refineries in Nigeria and so no local petrol production whatsoever – yet, there is, even if the refineries are working below capacity.

ii) Nigeria actually consumes 34 million litres of petrol per day. Most experts disagree and give a figure between 20 and 25 million litres per day. Yet there is still an unexplainable shortfall even if we use the exaggerated figure of the government.

iii) Ghana, Togo, Benin, Cameroun, Niger, and Chad all consume the same rate as Nigeria and get 50% of their petrol illegally from Nigeria through smuggling.

These figures simply show the incompetence and insincerity of our government officials. This is pure banditry.

9) FACT 9: The simplest part of the fuel subsidy arithmetic will reveal one startling fact: That the government
does not need to subsidise our petrol at all if we reject corruption and sleaze as a way of life. Check this out:

a) NNPC crude oil allocation for local consumption = 400,000 barrels per day (from a total of 2.450 million barrels per day).

b) If our refineries work at just 30%, 280,000 barrels can be sold on the international market, leaving the rest for local production.

c) Money accruing to the federal government through NNPC on the sale, using $80/bbl – a conservative figure as against the current price of $100/bbl – would be $22.4m per day. Annually this translates to $8.176bn or N1.3 trillion.

d) The government does not need to subsidise our petrol imports - at least not from the Federation Account. The same crude that should have been refined by NNPC is simply sold on the international market (since our refineries barely work) and the money is used to buy petrol. The 400,000 barrels per day given to NNPC for local consumption can either be refined by NNPC or sold to pay for imports. This absurdity called subsidy should be funded with this money, not the regular FGN budget.

If the FGN uses it regular budget for subsidising petrol, then what happens to the crude oil given to NNPC for local refining that gets sold on the international market?

10) TACTICAL BLUNDER

The Federal Government is making the deregulation issue a revenue problem. Nigerians are not against deregulation. We have seen deregulation in the telecom sector and Nigerians are better for it, as even the poor have access to telephones now right before the eyes of those who think it is not for them. What is happening presently is not deregulation but an all-time high fuel pump increase, unprecedented in the history of our nation by a government that has gone broke due to excessive and reckless spending largely on themselves. If the excesses of all the three tiers of government are seriously curbed, that would free enough money for infrastructural development without unduly punishing the poor citizens of this country.

Let me just cite, in closing, the example of National Assembly excesses and misplaced spending as contained in the 2012 budget proposal:

Number of Senators 109
Number of Members of the House of Representatives 360
Total Number of Legislators 469
2012 Budget Proposal for the National Assembly N150 billion
Average Cost of Maintaining Each Member N320 million
Average Cost of Maintaining Each Member in USD $2.1 million/year

Time has come for the citizens of this country to hold the government accountable and demand the prosecution of those bleeding our nation to death. Until this government downsizes, cuts down its profligacy and leads by example in modesty and moderation, the poor people of this country will not and must not subsidise the excesses of the oil sector fat cats and the immorality cum fiscal scandal of the self-centred and indulgent lifestyles of those in government.

Here is a hidden treasure of wisdom for those in power while there is still time to make amends:
PROVERBS 21:6&7

“Getting treasures by a lying tongue is the fleeting fantasy of those who seek death. The violence of the wicked will destroy them because they refuse to do just.”

A word of counsel for those who voted for such soulishly indulgent leadership:

“Never trust a man who once had no shoes, or you may end up losing your legs.”

This is the conclusion of the matter on subsidy removal:

i) “If a ruler pays attention to lies, all his servants become wicked.” (Proverbs 29:12)

ii) “The Righteous God wisely considers the house of the wicked, overthrowing the wicked for their wickedness. Whoever shuts his ears to the cry of the poor will also cry himself and will not be heard.” (Proverbs 21:12&13)

Thanks for your attention. God bless you all.

Pastor ‘Tunde Bakare

Fuel Subsidy Series I

2012-01-13T08:26:00.001-05:00

I have read a number of articles and viewed pictures about the ongoing fuel saga. While some are well thought out and others quite illogical; it was pure rage I felt at the sight of the naked body of the gunned teenager. That boy is someone's son and displaying him in such a state kills the message and changes the focus of the story. The bullet did not undress him... Let's take care not to distort the real meaning of our messages. I'll share some of the materials... Feel free to read and comment. Okonjo Iweala’s Anti-subsidy movie Bayo Onanuga On the eve of Nigeria’s general strike to protest the removal of petrol subsidy in the country by the Goodluck Jonathan administration, I have been researching the archives, using the Freedom of Information law as cover, to find out how President Jonathan reached his present anti-people policy. It all started on 6 December last year, when Ngozi Okonjo Iweala, the Finance minister and the coordinating minister for the economy (a position not provided in our constitution) presented ‘briefs’ to the Federal Executive Council on why the Jonathan administration must end the subsidy in less than a month. When Nigerians go through these so called facts, they will find that Okonjo’s conclusions are the typical, ‘working to the answer’. Her thesis cannot stand the test of a strict scrutiny and indeed calls into question her credentials as a financial expert. For starters: 1. Okonjo’s thesis was wrong from the beginning: she says that subsidy does not reach the poor, that only the rich and the middle class are the beneficiaries. The hollowness and shallowness of the position have been profoundly proven by the cries of agony by Nigerians. Who have been the most hit by the anti-people measure? The poor. Who have been crying loudest? The poor. Even, if we accept her theory that the rich and middle class are the greatest beneficiaries of oil subsidy, are they not Nigerians? Are they not entitled to some goodies from their government? 2. Okonjo posited that Nigeria had spent N3.6 trillion on subsidy in five years, an average of N660 billion yearly, but fails to explain how the figure rose to N1.3 trillion in 2011, the same year like 2008 when international oil prices shot to the roof. Using Okonjo’s statistics, the average crude oil price in 2008 was $101.78 dollars, compared with $113.98 in 2011. The amount of subsidy in those years was at variance by more than 10 per cent that any reasonable, rational, logical person will expect. What accounted for this difference? Was subsidy fund stolen to fund Jonathan’s re-election campaign? Was the increase in subsidy expenses because the oil cabal presented bogus claims for settlement? Mrs. Okonjo Iweala did not explain and no one provided any details. 3. Okonjo’s analysis to paint subsidy as bad and to justify why it must go, were based on two oil prices and it was obvious she did so to arrive at her bogus conclusion. In one breath, she used $113 dollars as the base price of crude oil to determine how Nigeria’s subsidized oil price ranks with other African countries. At 46 cents, petrol is cheapest in Nigeria, compared with mainly non-oil producing countries, such as Cape Verde, CAR, Malawi, Ivory Coast, Egypt, Equatorial Guinea, and Mali etc. Angola, an oil producer is also classified as selling its petrol higher than Nigeria at 69 cents a litre. If only Mrs. Okonjo had looked at her figures and graph, she would have seen two other oil producers in Africa, seating pretty below Nigeria on this price graph. These countries are Algeria, which unlike Nigeria sells more refined products than Nigeria, which sells its crude to the world, without trying to add value, by refining and creating jobs at home. The other country is Libya. Algeria sells a litre of petrol at 32 cents and Libya sells its own at 17 cents. They are fellow oil producers like our country. According to Okonjo, these countries offer cheap fuel to their people because they are not as populated like Nigeria and because they have higher per capita than Nigeria. However missing from her explanation was whether those countries behave like Nigeria’s irresponsible rulers, spending three-quarters of their budget on recurrent expenditure, cutlery, bullet proof cars and so on. 4. In another breath, Mrs. Okonjo compared Nigeria’s oil price last year, with a mixed bag of European, Latin America and African nations, all oil producers. These statistics showed that Nigeria’s price at N65 was not the cheapest in the world. Although petrol sold cheaper here then than Angola and Sudan, in Venezuela, it is almost free at 3 cents. Brunei, Yemen, Oman, Algeria, Kuwait, Bahrain, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Iran all offer their petrol very cheap to their people. In Iran, it is 10 cents, compared with Nigeria’s January 2012 price of almost $1. The Saudis sell their oil at 17 cents, Kuwait at 22 cents. 5. With subsidy removed, we can already feel the effects the increase has had on the Nigerian people: it has further pauperized them and has made things more difficult for the 90 per cent living on less than $2 a day, according to Sanusi Lamido Sanusi, the Central bank governor. 6. In further analysis, Okonjo presented another graph that shows Nigeria’s position, among other oil producers and African nations after the subsidy removal. The graph puts the cost of fuel at 69 cents, using another oil price as basis—$90 per barrel. Of course all Nigerians know that the fuel they are selling at gas stations is between N141 and N150, which is very close to $1. Curiously, on the same graph sits USA. There, a litre of oil is 80 cents, cheaper than what the Russians (84 cents), the Indonesians (83 cents), war-torn Iraq (81 cents) pay for a litre of fuel. 7. Nigerians need to ask Okonjo the logic that supports citizens of an oil-producing nation, like Nigeria, paying more money for fuel than the Americans, oil importers, pay. America has a greater per capita than Nigeria; the least income earner in America earns at least $24,000 a year, compared with Nigeria where 90 per cent live on $2 a day. Will this policy not diminish further our people’s capacity to get out of the vicious bracket of poverty? How now will 90 per cent of Nigerians starving on $2 a day, not be economically asphyxiated when commodity prices have jumped, in some cases by 100 per cent? In my view, her argument and the entire policy of removing the fuel subsidy are ill thought out and ‘callous’ as some Nigerians have said.

Steve Jobs, 1955 - 2011

2011-10-06T11:00:00.003-04:00

Adieu Great Steve Paul Jobs, 1955-2011. What a pity that even though Nigeria is one of the beneficiaries of your vision and innovations, no local source has the story. But please don't take this as an indication that we don't appreciate your work; our culture of Nigerian time (worse than African time) is what got a hold of us. Soon we'd have reports, programmes, pages.... branded for you. Sleep well great soul.

A FLY ON THE WALL OF GHL

2011-09-19T15:44:00.000-04:00

I used the opportunity of an ailing man being wheeled into the theatre to buzz my way amidst the confusion into the hospital. Now in, I buzzed around freely wondering whether it was the lack of finesse or the confusion that trailed the accidental entrance that made them wheel him in in such a rusty stretcher.

Once in the theatre, a family member was asked to go and make payment to process his admission. Shouldn’t such have been nearby for emergency purposes? Or perhaps, administration could have waited till later. But I guess dying or dead, protocol is protocol at GHL. Off I went with her to the payment office... An office accessed via 3 cubicles; first she had to make it through the queue to make the payment. Receipt in hand, she went to the second cubicle to record the payment. Then she moved to the third cubicle where she received a small card. Off she went to the records department where a folder was opened. Even though the card says not to be handled by patients, same was given to the confused woman who rushed with the folder almost knocking off one or two passersby in the process. But why the hurry, the man remained on the stretcher as nurses and aides offer comforting comments. “Sorry daddy, the doctors will soon be here; they have gone to call them from ward round”. “Ha, you must be in so much pain, but you have to be a man”... “Madam, he will need blood o”, said one nurse to the woman still clutching the folder, “You should make arrangement for that”. The nuurse collected the folder and went about her business like blood can be sourced from the pure gutter - sorry – water seller outside. Not only did she look confused, I bet she had no idea where to get blood or what blood group of family member she should go in search of. An hour gone by since arrival; though the man is still sprawled on the stretcher, he appeared stable I buzzed off to another unit.

Here in the Physio-wing things seem to be moving alright except that almost everyone who complained about back or upper body pain got sold neck collars. Even though one can read here and there that cash is only to be paid to the official “bank”, folks don’t have a minute to think as they focus on wellness. As a patient made payment for his neck collar, I heard another grumbling that he ended up using his for two days! Perhaps there should be money back guarantee for unused or fairly used collars. As I listened to interactions which included doctors talking down at patients, I buzzed off towards a mid-age woman being wheeled away in a rickety wheelchair by her brother. Shouldn’t they have nursing aides? Not knowing the route, the brother who had a folder under his arm ended up jabbing the chair here and there as the woman screamed with every drive into pot holes or ditches. Shouldn’t this entire place be wheel chair accessible?

Finally, they arrived at one of the female wards where the matron in charge refused admittance on the basis that the woman should have been accompanied by a nurse who would explain the new inmate’s diagnosis. Off the brother went, leaving his sister who was by now in so much pain from the rough ride on the wheel chair. Thank God, the nurse came in a jiffy; absolving herself of blame, she explained that the patient took off on her own. The conversation did not take 3 minutes but the patient had to hang in a dead wheel chair while the brother made the round trip to get the nurse.

The admission done, patient was conned into buying an un-hemmed piece of white cloth as approved cover cloth and a night dress. The patient was too glad to finally find a resting place that she couldn’t care less about the faded bed sheet which bore the brand name of a nearby church. As I buzzed off with the woman’s brother, I wondered why such a faded glory still had a pride of place here. Why not? The beds and lockers are rusty, the windows are dusty, the nets harbour flies and mosquitoes; I guess faded and dingy go together.

As he drove off, I wondered why such a seemingly comfortable person would choose GHL, just then an angry guest lamented, “If not that they have medical specialists here, what will I be doing here! After wasting all our time now they are saying we should have gone to Island Maternity. You see what this girl has decided to put me through.” She beckoned to the nursing aide to bring her teenage daughter who appeared to be pregnant. As they crossed the road, I buzzed after them but they stopped in their tracks as they got to the gate. “Where is this gateman?” Someone shouted. A minute, two, three... but no sight of him, “My sister, you may have to stand up”, “I am very weak”, she complained. Just then a good Samaritan walked by, “Why don’t we carry her?” They lifted the wheel chair through the pedestrian gate only to be faced with a bigger problem of how to wheel the chair through the packed cars. Shouldn’t the entrance to a maternity home or any hospital at that be obstruction free? I was getting hungry so I made my way through the kitchen feeding fat on the lack of hygiene.

Now fully fed, I buzzed around the GHL and LIMH environment observing abandoned vehicles, overgrown grass, dilapidated areas... Just then the rain began and I took refuge under a dingy car. What a blessing! The rain took forever and I wondered how work may have been grounded by this outpouring. An idea flashed through my mind, what if all the halls were linked by covered walkways. What if there was an overhead pedestrian bridge that linked GHL to LIMH so that visitors, outpatients and patients do not require crossing or wheeling across the road.

Well rested, it was time to return to secret service. As I made my way through the side entrance of LIMH at about 1am, strewn on the floor were bodies of men and women in scattered symmetry. Some laid on the bench or on bare floor others on wrappers or mats. They seem set to spend the night. On my way towards the Emergency Unit, a woman stood clutching the door as her mother came forward to request for a wheel chair; with none in site, she began to walk towards the EU. Pain and ache was written all over her as she moved one step, two steps in snail speed with her hands behind her back for support. The pain became unbearable at which point she had to be supported by a good Samaritan to make the journey through to the EU.

To my shock, the nurse on duty was sleeping! Not a light nap but deep, deep, sleep with light snoring. The mother to the patient tried to call her to life to no avail. After what seem like ten minutes, taps on the shoulder brought her to life. She shook off the sleep and began to attend to the patient in a somewhat professional way confirming that she would be attended to when the doctor arrived. But come to think of it all she did was make the patient comfortable on the bare bed; no first aide, no analgesic and to say this is EU!

If I knew that the sleepy lady with one trouser leg rolled up like an area woman is the medical intern they waited about an hour to see while the doctor snored away in the lounge, I really wouldn’t have bothered. Little did I know that my horror tale was just beginning.

Omolola Anne Famuyiwa is Project Director of Cares Global Network.

Light A Candle

2011-06-19T06:00:00.002-04:00

A candle loses none of its light by lighting another candle!

One day in a year is definitely not enough to celebrate the courage of patients, educate the populace and create awareness about a disease that has eaten deep into the fabric of the nation. Almost every family has a story.

Nnamdi’s birth was celebrated with pomp and pageantry. By the age of three, he had made so many rounds to the hospital that his parents lost count. One day, his parents travelled to the city with him and he had a seizure and was hospitalised. It was then that his parents realised that the union of AS and AS birthed SS.

Fola and Aminu knew they were both carriers yet their love for each other was so strong that all warnings fell on deaf ears. After 10 years of marriage and two burials of offspring, they individually began to wonder whether love is stronger than the pangs of mourning.

Ajadi enjoyed good health until a sore in his old age led him to visit the hospital. There he was tested and told he is a “sickler”. Since the kinds of symptoms described were alien to him, doctors began to question him about his diet. Ajadi from Ekiti for most of his life had eaten more of yam for breakfast and pounded yam for lunch. His diet only recently changed leading to the breakdown of his immunity. From the research that was conducted, it was discovered that Yam has anti-sickling agents and because it is natural it has little or no side effect. Ugwu was also discovered to produce iron and increase blood count. So, what magic can a diet of yam and ugwu do to an anaemic patient?

Nigeria is blessed with many natural and human resources meant to sustain us, unfortunately these resources are not well researched neither are medicinal properties of herbs and foods harnessed for maximum benefit.

Ignorance about the sickle cell anaemia has birthed more patients. According to Deaconess Toyin Adesola, author of Still Standing, whose parents though medical personnel – surgeon and nurse – got married despite both having the AS genotype, “My parents got married in the ‘60s and there was hardly anybody that knew about the SCA then.” Lack of information and education about the transmission, effects and management of the s-cell continue to lead many to regret pleading the love amendment.

Some years back, Ms. Funke Akiyode, the Founder of Shout Global Health Inc, attended a Sickle Cell Conference in Baltimore where she met with a man she identified as “Baba”. Baba who was then in his sixties had come to share a rare herb recipe that has become a saving grace for children living with the s-cell in his community. Not too long thereafter, Baba transited to the great beyond, but not without passing on the recipe to his children. Not finding the $3M required for Research and Development (R & D), Baba’s children sold this miracle recipe to business savvy Indians. The Indians not only got the R & D underway, they, based on a pact and the need to be close to the botanical properties, located the factory in Nigeria. True or False; this is said to be the story that birthed Nicosan.

The commissioning of the Xechem factory by President Olusegun Obasanjo was done amidst a lot of media bling-bling. Commercial production began in 2006 but the drug which was sold for N3, 000 i.e. $20 was of course not affordable to the average Nigerian.

But the originally indigenous Nicosan (Hemoxin in US) formerly known as Niprisan and Nix 0699 which was researched by the National Institute for Pharmaceutical Research and Development (NIPRD) became a miracle drug having prevented informed and economically capable s-cell patients from pain and from making monthly rounds to the hospital for transfusion or the likes thus leading them to live normal lives. Unfortunately the medication became inaccessible due to the stop order on production.

With the embargo on Nicosan production, more Nigerians living with the s-cell have turned to Hydroxyuleria - a drug for cellular abnormality diseases like leukemia – which increases the production of fetal haemoglobin, needed to rejuvenate red blood cells. Though Hydroxyuleria work for some, it has so many side effects including the possibility of increasing cell growth which may lead to cancer.

In a spirited letter to NEXIM, Diamond Bank and Bank PHB – Ms. Tosin Ola, a self-described sickle cell warrior wrote, “Last month, I ran out of Nicosan. Now I am in the same boat as my friends, waiting for the evil crises to descend on me like a specter of doom. I am afraid of falling sick again, I am afraid of having to go to the hospital, because sickle cell patients are dying in hospitals from ‘sickle cell related complications’ at an alarming rate. Not just here in the United States, but in Bahrain, Nigeria, India, Jamaica and Brazil. There is a huge stigma that exists for sickle cell patients around the world, and every time we pass through a hospital, we are playing dice with death. Why would you allow this to be our fate?”

I wonder why those in the corridors of power would continue to stand akimbo while our human resources are depleted daily due to a disease that can be managed by a locally produced drug. It is sad that foreign bodies are more concerned about health related issues which explains why initiatives for the eradication of Polio, prevention of HIV/Aids etc are usually externally driven.

The good news is that short term plans by Xechem Pharmaceuticals include the closure of the New Jersey Headquarters to minimise operations cost and the resumption of production in Nigeria.

June 19 is the World Sickle Cell Awareness Day, an event that commemorates the date in 2008 when the General Assembly of the United Nations adopted a resolution recognising sickle cell anaemia, one of the world’s foremost genetic diseases, as a public health concern. The day affords everyone especially advocates and the media an opportunity to educate people, create awareness and possibly eliminate harmful prejudices about the disease. The disease has severe physical, psychological and social consequences for those affected and their families.

The World Health Organisation estimates that Nigeria has 7 million people living with SCD and that SCD contributes to 5% of the deaths of children below aged 5 years in some African countries. While an increasing proportion of affected children now survive past 5 years of age, many remain at risk of premature death. With early detection and use of public health interventions such as penicillin, many of these deaths can be prevented. Additionally, the burden of this disease can be reduced with increased global resources and effective partnerships.

Our government and indeed the health sector need to seek greater cooperation to facilitate access to information, education, communication, management, and treatment for sickle-cell anaemia. Increase research to determine prevalence of SCD, develop better management guidelines, and more effectively monitor complications of the disease. There should be a pro-active stance towards the improvement of proper management of sickle-cell anaemia to decrease mortality from related diseases. International institutions, development partners, civil society and corporate bodies should be encouraged to support health systems and primary health-care delivery.

So how can you commemorate the day: Raise awareness especially via social media. Have a presentation at your place of worship. Partner with NGO and Civil Society. Educate someone or provide free information pamphlet. Encourage people to get screened for the trait, donate blood or donate money to sickle cell research. Organise a benefit programme or media briefing. Lobby legislators to come up with policies that support the establishment of free clinics for indigent patients. Support a patient or parent. Take a moment to reflect and to pray.

The SCD is an inherited group of red blood cell disorders. In people living with the SCD, "sickle" or abnormally shaped red blood cells get stuck in small blood vessels and block the flow of blood and oxygen to organs in the body. These blockages can cause repeated episodes of severe pain, organ damage, and serious infections, or even stroke. SCD affects millions of people throughout the world and is particularly common among blacks.

The specific aim of the 2011 World Sickle Cell Awareness Day theme - Educate and Unite - is to achieve the United Nations Millennium Development Goal 4 i.e. to reduce child mortality by 2015.

Ms. Tosin Ola gave a charge: “The power of intercessory prayer and a shared global consciousness is real, so please lift up all our brothers and sisters. So many of us are down, in pain, or in the hospital, and we could all use some well wishes and love.”

To all our loved ones living with the s-cell, I admire your courage and I pray God strengthen you mentally to outlive the anaemic cell. Together we can change the face of sickle cell.

Omolola Famuyiwa is Project Director of Cares Global Network. This article also appeared in Punch Newspapers of 22.06.11.

Protect Children Now

2011-06-16T10:00:00.004-04:00

Children are the future of the world. Children are the hope of Nigeria. Children are tomorrow’s people. They are the new inspiration. Children, our joy, our pride, our future! Little wonder Nigerians celebrate the arrival of a child with pomp and pageantry. The child’s mother receives many gifts as more and more people gather to care and cook. Where the new baby’s parents’ can boast of wealth, the family rolls out drums to celebrate the bundle of joy. Different cultures have different ways by which they celebrate the best gift ever – children.

With the way we celebrate children at birth, you would think people would never hurt children? But they do… These precious souls soon become subjects of neglect, exploitation and abuse. Hundreds of children die every week from physical and sexual abuse. Many are raped, molested, violated... Even with the Convention on the Rights of the Child, the Child Rights Act and numerous provisions in the best interest of children, 1 in ten children are made to swallow the bitter pill of abuse during childhood. An estimated 34% are neglected, 30% are sexual abused, 28% are physically abused with another 8% suffering various kinds of emotional abuse.

Do you know that the United Nations has estimated the population of street children worldwide at 150 million, with the number rising daily? In Lagos, countless children roam the streets. Sadly, the society have come to accept them and even labelled some of them as “area boys” or “area girls”. Some are on the streets to beg, while others are there to sell or steal. Though some children were driven to the streets by poverty; most had to take refuge on the streets as a result of one form of abuse or another. Some have a place to retire to at night but others have come to accept the street as home. Have you ever asked how they got there?

Street children and thousands of others who remain within but have their minds far away from home, are the defenseless victims of abuse, abject neglect, brutal violence, sexual exploitation and drug addiction. Some end up being murdered by clean up squads hired locally or by police.

Sadly, 90% of children know their abusers. Surprisingly, they are often people who the victim have come to trust - family friend, relation, care giver or even parent! We may need to rethink our customs, beliefs, practices and attitudes that are harmful to children

1 in ten are abused during child hood

“My father used to slap me and beat my mother when I go out to visit friends, he later raped me when my Mum travelled to the village” – Titilayo, 13 years

“My mother abuses me all the time; she said I should have been a boy” – Nneka, 8 years

“My aunty beats me whenever I return home without selling all my plantain. It became too much, one day, I ran away, far away to live on the street.” Amadu, 11 years

Most children are afraid to open up about being abused for fear of reprimand but how can you tell that a child has been sexually abused? The child would have knowledge of sexual intercourse, may have medical problems such as sexually transmitted diseases, react extremely to corrections e.g. run away or attempt suicide, the child would feel insecure and may be wary of known persons.

How can you tell that a child has been physically abused? There would be bruises, usually unexplained, and such a child may refrain from undressing either for medical examination or for games. Other indicators are self destructive tendencies and may be afraid of physical contact.

How can you tell if a child has been neglected? The child would be constantly hungry or may be malnourished, the child may be unkempt, the child may be constantly tired and fall asleep at the slightest comfort, the child may have untreated medical problems and may withdraw from social interaction. Also, the child may become a compulsive scavenger.

A child suffering from emotional abuse would have noticeable physical, mental and emotional development inhibition. The child may begin to stutter or have sudden speech disorder, lack self-appreciation, over reacts to mistakes, respond inappropriately to pain, fear new situations and be extremely passive or extremely aggressive.

If you know any child that is being abused, PLEASE encourage the child to speak to someone, it could be the child’s parent, guardian, friend, mentor, counselor or someone the child can trust. If you know an abuser, the onus is on you to report to the police or via the various Helplines by non-governmental organisations or the Lagos State Ministry of Women Affairs and Poverty Alleviation (WAPA) Helpline – 01.761.7508, 01.730.8112.

The Child Rights Law must be fully implemented and such initiatives as the Yellow Card for Child Abuse must be publicised. Our legislators must begin to talk about prosecuting child rights offenders. There must be serious retributive consequences for those who abuse children. Child abuse should be a criminal offence especially considering that some children carry the negative effect throughout life. Record of child abusers should be published via the media – television, radio, print, internet - to ensure such offenders are prevented from hurting other children.

Parents and guardians must learn to communicate with their children so as to gain their trust as confidants. They must also teach children skills that prevent children from abuse. The National Broadcasting Commission and the Media should take up their roles as stakeholders by ensuring that materials containing adult content are not shown during children’s belt. Any content that celebrates child abuse must not be aired.

In 1976, thousands of black school children took to the streets of Soweto, South Africa. In a march more than half a mile long, they protested the inferior quality of their education and demanded their right to be taught in their own languages. In the two weeks that followed, during what came to be known as the Soweto Uprising, hundreds of innocent people especially young boys and girls were massacred and thousands were injured.

To honour the memory of those who courageously paid the price for the voice of children to be heard, not just in South Africa but across the continent of Africa, the Day of the African Child was initiated by the Organisation of African Unity (now the African Union) and has been celebrated on 16 June every year since 1991.

The Day draws attention to the lives of African children. This year, the Day focuses on the plight of the estimated 30 million "street children" in Africa under the theme of "All Together for Urgent Actions in Favour of Street Children. The 2011 observance of this Day seeks to contribute to widespread awareness of the dangers street children face, promote the taking of urgent steps to protect them and determine strategies for providing effective child protection

As part of Vanguard Newspaper’s 1st Parenting Summit in commemoration of the Day of the African Child, Cares Global Network, publisher of Willows Magazine went to Obalende, Lagos to give out lunch packs to street children. There will be a Road Walk by students (June 16) to re-enact the vision of those that marched in Soweto.

The Day of the African Child is a day of reflection, one during which we all should reflect on the special needs of children in Africa; the need to increase equal access to suitable education, health, and the protection against abuses such as physical, emotional and sexual abuse, child exploitation, the recruitment of child soldiers, child labour and child marriages.

Though commemoration of the day has brought the African child under the global klieg light, we are yet to see the true recognition of the African child. The true worth of the African child will come only when their voices are truly heard and an investment in their collective future is seen; when one sees an end to gender inequality, when children are protected from all forms of abuse, when their little bodies are no longer seen as disposable and an end to demand is seen for their use as tools of the sex trade, labour and weapons of war. Until that day children across the continent of Africa continue to suffer unjustly, their abusers receive little recourse for their actions, and the majority of the governments sit idly by.

As we commemorate yet another Day of the African Child, let’s take a moment to share their strides and aspirations, let’s share their stories of courage and hope, only then will tomorrow be a better day for children everywhere.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child (1989) states that, every child has the right to good health, education, right to be treated equally, the right to be protected, and the right to participate in matters that affect them. Will you make this happen? Will you protect children now against violence, exploitation and all forms of abuse? I will. Will you?

Exerpt from this article by Omolola Famuyiwa, Project Director of Cares Global Network, was published in Punch Newspapers on 16.06.11 with the title, For the sake of the African Child.

Inaugural Agenda

2011-06-03T16:14:00.002-04:00

Using the 20-point inaugural speech posted online, Mr. President’s address can be broken into the following key messages:

2. Acknowledgement of “brother heads of state and government” or representatives, chair person of African Union, world leaders, development partners and guests. Mr. President should learn to be gender sensitive. Madam President from Liberia – Mrs. Helen Sirleaf Johnson – and other worthy females were present at the inauguration.

4. Tribute to the late President, Alhaji Umaru Musa Yar’Adua and to Nigeria’s founding fathers for their enduring sacrifice

5. Acknowledgment of the over 70M that registered to vote and those who struggled against limitations and challenges to vote, and of the spirit of resilience to build a strong nation

9. A promise of transformation in all the critical sectors, by harnessing the creative energies of our people.

Only once in Mr. President’s inaugural address did we see a firm active voice, “The urgent task of my administration is to provide a suitable environment, for productive activities to flourish. I therefore call on the good people of Nigeria, to enlist as agents of this great transformation.”

I request that you review Mr. President's Agenda and share your thoughts on whether we have a worthwhile journey to look forward to.

Omolola Famuyiwa is Project Director of Cares Global Network.

The Song of Freedom

2011-06-03T16:01:00.000-04:00

It was heart warming to witness the inauguration of the third democratically elected president in Nigeria after the restoration of civilian governance in 1999. The glitz, the media attention and the global recognition was well worth the sacrifice we made at the polls and the decision of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the April 2011 elections.

But while some are proud of Nigeria for swinging a beautiful ceremony, a number of Nigerians are of the opinion that the huge “unsubstantiated” budget was unnecessary if not wasteful. It would be interesting to know the committee that came up with or reviewed the budget. Were there dissenting voices to the event, if yes, how were they accomodated? Who drove the expenditure? Was it Mr. President or Messers Lackeys? Is this spending in line with Mr. President's character or what he projects to be his character. If not, how does he hope to fix the disconnect?

For the educated, the argument is based on the fact that the Nigerian constitution requires and mandates only the oath taking to 'enter on the Execution' of the office of the presidency. According to a Nigerian living abroad, Mr. Dean Arutoghor, technically, the inauguration should be a simple oath-taking that requires the coming together of the president elect who should not be paid for signing into service, a judge who may be given a week day off in lieu of having to work on a work-free day and a handful of witnesses. Of course as a newsworthy event, the national media can bear the logistics of recording the event. Something really simple - like the re-taking of the oath by President Obama in the Oval Office after he fluffed his lines during the original inauguration despite all the razzle-dazzle - would have been sufficient. For the poor, the budget could have been translated into roads, water pumps, schools, market stalls, fertilizers, small loans, BCG vaccines etc.

In this age of technological advancement, could the invited dignitaries not have given their goodwill message via online video messaging? After all they all would not have had an opportunity to meet one on one with the president during the inaugural ceremonies.

But like the Director General of National Orientation Agency (NOA) Alhaji Idi M. Faruk said, the N1B budgeted is justified considering the various activities slated for the event and based on the international recognition that would accrue from Nigeria being seen as a democratic country to be emulated by other African countries. On the other side of the kobo are folks like Alhaji Faruk and Mr. Lanre Sarumi, a Movie Director, who defended that the money expended was well worth it as the Presidential Inauguration like the Royal Wedding is a national event where all the invited dignitaries had an opportunity to have a taste of Nigeria first hand as well as brought in foreign currency which was ploughed back into the nation.

So what was the real figure expended for the inauguration at Federal and State level? There have been a number of complaints about the Federal budget but did any State Governor declare their inauguration budget? Whether it is 600M or 850M or even 5B Naira, the fact that the week of inaugural festivities is over means that the money have been spent. The question we need to ask is whether it was extravagant or perhaps those complaining are just being sentimental? Should a country at the brink of economic crisis expend so much to celebrate the coming of age with regards to a budding democracy? How much of hard-pressed tax payers money was squandered? Do we need to expend so much to prove that we are willing to deepen the culture and practice of democracy especially considering that many lives were lost in the re-birthing of our democracy? According to the Human Rights Watch, the 2011 election was the bloodiest since the restoration of civilian governance. The bloodbath continued on the day of election as bomb attack and violence was recorded in Bauchi, Zaria, Kaduna, Maiduguri, around Abuja and Owerri.

So the money has been spent and our future remains ahead of us. While folks like the NaijaCyberHactivists can decide to dent our image further by posting gory images on government-owned websites, we may choose to begin to ask questions about who and who would make up Mr. President’s cabinet. We can begin to question whether they are people-oriented and qualified for the positions to which they would be elected. We need to begin to ask how Mr. President intends to solve the problem of electricity, employment, healthcare, education, infrastructural and socio-economic development in the country.

Mr. President should learn to be gender sensitive. Madam President from Liberia – Mrs. Helen Sirleaf Johnson – and other worthy females were present at the inauguration yet Mr. President acknowledged, “brother heads of state and government.” Only once in Mr. President’s inaugural address did we see a firm active voice, “The urgent task of my administration is to provide a suitable environment, for productive activities to flourish. I therefore call on the good people of Nigeria, to enlist as agents of this great transformation.”

Across the nation, prayer was said to begin and close the inauguration but how much of God do we allow in the nation’s governance. As we journey through and pray for the new leadership, we need Mr. President to take a definite stand on the things that matter – healthcare, roads, electricity, education...

As we settle into a new dispensation, Mr. President need to make the loss of lives, unwavering sacrifice of the living and the expectation of all, regardless of how they voted, count for something. Mr. President needs to extend the olive branch to reach beyond the disgruntled to the pained. We are one Nigeria; Mr. President should work at understanding the northern, western, eastern and southern dynamic as this is very important to the progress of our dear nation.

Already, steps taken by Mr. President in the wake of assuming leadership is proving positive. The signing by Nigeria’s President Goodluck Jonathan of a Freedom of Information (FoI) law is a victory for democracy, transparency, justice and development. "With the new law, Nigerians finally have vital tools to uncover facts, fight corruption and hold officials and institutions accountable," Ms. Ene Enonche, Coordinator of the Right to Know Initiative, said.

Going by the new legislation which expects all institutions spending public funds to be open about their operations and expenditure, we as citizens can ask questions about the exact figure that was spent on the inauguration and how these was expended. We can find out whether the N850B declared as actual budget by Alhaji Yayale Ahmed, the Chairman of the presidential inauguration committee is true. We can also request information on the actual figures voted for public address system, multimedia projectors and screens,

ministers, air conditioning and refurbishing (not rebuilding) of the church. Under the new law, citizens will have the right to access information and whistleblowers who report malfeasance by their employers or organisations or politicians will be protected from reprisals.

Edetaen Ojo, Executive Director, Media Rights Agenda said: “The signing of the FoI Bill into law is the clearest demonstration ever of the power of civil society working together to influence public policy and initiate reform. We are committed to continuing our concerted efforts to ensure that the new law achieves its ultimate objective of making government work for the people.”

It has been a long, rough road since the first submission of the FoI Bill in 1999 when the country returned to democratic rule. I must commend journalists, the media and of course the civil societies locally and globally for taking a stand for freedom. Now we can chant Bob Marley’s Redemption Song as we pay homage to the heroes who paid the capital price and look forward to real unity and faith, peace and progress.

Omolola Famuyiwa is Project Director of Cares Global Network.

From Used Cars to Private Jet: The Story of the Pentecostal Movement

2011-05-20T13:52:00.003-04:00

As I sat to tea, ‘Ms. Olutola’ said to me, I remember when we started the ministry somewhere around Surulere. Bishop drove a beetle then, a used Volkswagen. One thing I remembered is that despite the challenges we faced as a small fellowship, he always preached the Bible undiluted.

Most people can relate with ministers with used cars, some getting late to church because the rickety vehicle broke down on the highway. We can look back to the years between 1985 and 1990, when worshippers took refuge in not so sophisticated buildings which had become a place of refuge as we cringed from the terror by day masked as Chief of Staff. Those from the shacks of Ajegunle and the shores of Alpine took the battle against the junta in one accord to God. At that time, I would say there were neither Christians nor Muslims, only worshippers with a common enemy. Worship by the leaders and followers at that time could in my opinion be rated genuine.

Time travel from 1985 to 2005 and you’ll see a mind blowing transformation especially in the churches. Wooden benches gave way to high quality upholstery, berets gave way to hats as milliners churn out creativity to outdo one another, cloth banners gave way to large flex prints, wooden altar boards stepped aside for artistically decorated backdrops and of course used cars gradually became accursed amongst men and women of God.

It is easy for many people to zero the transformation down to the high-handedness of Pastors who lord it over their congregation; compelling members to spend beyond their means to give the place of worship a befitting face lift. Some would even go as far as condemning men and women of God for luring members to give their all so that they can live large at the expense of unsuspecting parishioners. But, for a second let’s look beyond the few negative indices at the value that the transformation in the Pentecostal Movement has brought to our nation.

Let’s start with entertainment. The need to turn to praise in the late 80s was a survival strategy. The melancholy that wore down the nation spread into the churches. To give a glimmer of hope most churches saw the need to re-engineer praise in order to keep the gloom out. Naturally the choir was thrown the challenge of giving people a reason to come to church. Today, many entertainers especially singers trace their beginning back to when they were choir or youth group members. To celebrate the exit of the junta, praise got even better which opened the door to better equipments leading to a boom in the music industry with dealers and sellers smiling to the banks.

Rev Jackie McCullough, a native of Jamaica and the Senior Pastor at Betha Rapha Church, recanted to her congregation in New Jersey, the story of how she received a gift of Maxima. This was at a time when she was merely one of the Pastors in a church where she served; long before she started her own ministry. A sister who had been blessed through the occasional sermons she shared walked up to her and handed over the key to the car. Was the sister forced? My guess is no. In my opinion, the lady was merely reacting to the impact Rev. McCullough had created. What the sister may not have known then is that Pastor Jackie had sown her own vehicle to the work of the ministry. Today, she has a ministry that birthed a mission that supported Jamaica with medical assistance and leadership training.

I once gave my pay packet to a Pastor. Yes, I was motivated by a sermon I heard but the truth is I came to a decision to do it weeks or months after because I realised I had benefited tremendously from the wealth of experienced I garnered from the Pastor. I was also motivated by the need to sow into a life that had become a trail blazer for excellence. I made the donation as anonymous so it wasn’t to curry favour of any kind. If the trainings – leadership, financial management, wealth creation, social interaction – I received were given a price tag; I would not have been able to afford it. So for me, parting with my pay packet was the least of the many ways I could say thank you to a man of God who has given so much.

As a tutor in America, I remember a day when one of my students walked up to me with a handmade card with these words: Ms. O, thank you for guarding us! That means a lot and I don’t think your language is funny! Thanks! On the paper she had a huge heart shape decorated in green and red. It was her way of appreciating my effort; her reference to language was in condemnation of her classmates who had laughed when I taught them how to greet in Yoruba. I have no doubt that she would have written the words on a cake if she could afford or make one.

How much do you think Dominique Strauss-Kahn, the IMF Chief would have paid to avoid the shame he has come face to face with? If a man of God had given a revelation that would change his story, how much value would he have placed on the revelation and how would he have rewarded the gesture? Perhaps with a new car, a new church building or even a brand new jet! The Holy Book did say to whom much is given; much is expected.

The Pentecostal Movement despite the claims a number may have about high-handedness, corruption, extravagance etc, which I daresay must not be swept under the carpet, has given the Nigerian economy so much and it is high time we commended that sacrifice. I’ll name some of the industries that have benefitted from the transformation – the media and advertising industry. Before the 80s, how much advert or airtime did churches pay for? Whether it is used to celebrate the gospel or celebrate the gospel bearer, one thing we can all agree on is that these sectors have benefitted from the largesse especially with almost all churches now having media and publicity units. The fashion industry: the creative hats, handmade ties, seamless shirts, well designed shoes and bespoke suits… have upped that industry such that even the Okrika sellers and Aba folks had to rethink quality. Have you ever seen the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) Mass Choir, or indeed any mass choir, in their beautiful Ankara? You would agree that some tailors smiled to the bank. The Aso-Oke and George weavers have not been left out as church events often call for one aso-ebi or the other. Fans have given way to air conditioners and “I better pass my neighbour” generators have given way to high powered diesel engines. Bulletins have taken the backseat to well-designed newsletters or even magazines; no doubt the printing business got a boost, not with the specially crafted fliers and invitation cards be it to announce programmes or celebrate weddings. Unschooled cleaners have been compelled to sign up under corporate organisations as garbage collection translated to waste management businesses. How can you leave out the catering and events management sectors? Where an eatery is not located by a church, you can be sure a church member has signed into the business to cash in on the many functions and events that take place in and around the church.

You may still find it hard to comprehend the value of all these to Nigeria’s economy. But, let’s look at three major areas – education, health, human development – and how the transformation in the Pentecostal Movement has positively affected these important areas.

It is a known fact that those in the Nigerian corridors of power have no articulate plan for our children. Ask the incoming President what plans he has for children born last year who will in 4 years be expected to sign into primary education and he’ll send for the Minister of Education who may likely send for the Commissioners and the masquerade dance comes alive. Okay ask an easier question, “How many spaces will be open in tertiary institutions by the end of the next school session and how many students leaving secondary schools can be guaranteed a place?” And he may just be lost in the maze. But one thing most churches have done to bail Nigeria out was to create schools. Catholic, Baptist, Anglican, Methodist, Winners, Seventh Day Adventist, Redeemed, etc can all boast of schools. Unfortunately some schools previously taken over by the government have been driven to the brink of collapse. While the government had no plans whatsoever for children who were forced to stay at home during the registration process for the 2011 General Elections, most churches organised tutoring to ensure the children are kept busy while their parents went to work. A number of churches also organise lessons during holidays. Millions in Nigeria’s work force have the religious bodies to thank for their formal and informal education.

I never felt the impact of the Catholic Churches in the area of health until I was rushed some years back to the St. Joseph’s Catholic Hospital in Ijebu Igbo where I was promptly and nicely attended to by I guess a Nun. I remember Ms. Anita Roper, a Baptist Missionary, who taught me so many skills including research skills as a member of the Girls Auxilliary. This was ever before my classroom teachers mentioned the word research. One of the projects she guided me through was the comparison of religions; this saw me visiting an Imam, an Herbalist and a Prophet just so I can know the difference and strengthen my faith. Ms. Roper gave up her own country, her own people, to sign up for a life of mentoring in Nigeria. What money could have been given or what brain washing could have been done for anyone to sign into celibacy just so she or he can be dedicated to a life of service? But over and beyond that, what value can we place on the millions of lives that have been saved by the hospitals or millions that have been guarded aright by the sacrifice? Many churches today carry out free weekly or monthly medical services, not only for church members but to those within their immediate community.

The contribution to human development is PRICELESS! To start with, churches have become employers of labour. Another way to look at this is the building of personnel. The man that has come to be known as “The Walking Bible”, Rev. George Adegboye of the Rhema Chapel International Churches is an extraordinary human capital expert who has mentored pastors locally and globally. He hardly spends one month of the year with his own family. Look around you and you’d find that most churches in building their workforce through rigorous leadership trainings have provided a ready pool for corporations, civil service, politics etc. Not only have most churches floated training institutes; they have through sermons continued to teach the virtues and values needed for nation building and democratic governance. Initiatives like the training of street urchins, known as Area Boys by the RCCG or rehabilitation of prostitutes by the Real Women Foundation birthed by Pastor Nike Adeyemi or guiding of singles and married by the Bimbo Odukoya Foundation or counselling of prison inmates by The Redeemed Evangelical Mission (TREM) has had a multiplying effect on our economy as those who would never have been able to contribute to the nation have been transformed and equipped to do so.

I am not saying that the church is perfect but more effort should be made to harness the benefits that have accrued from the progressive transformation. If all the churches were under one umbrella as a business entity; the entity would have been recorded in the top echelon of the Fortune 500 list. But the church as a place of worship where worshippers strive to give their best in the spirit of excellence should not be overlooked as a worthy business model.

Many more continue to give their widow’s mite not because they are coaxed but because they have benefitted or in religious parlance, they have been blessed. Last year the 1984-1990 Alumni of FGCO Odogbolu decided to give back a N2.5M project to the school. Why? The set members came to the conclusion that the school gave them so much more than they could ever afford to pay back. The students went further to appreciate their indefatigable Principal – Mr. Tunde Adefolaju – in a way that left him speechless. It would not have been enough, if Mr. Adefolaju got a new car or even a jet; after 20 years, we agreed that his contribution to our lives was priceless.

So people give back to churches, pastors, principals, teachers, employers etc but the question is, how well have Nigerians been blessed by Nigeria? Will there come a time when our children will think of giving back? Or are we propping them up to plunder Nigeria for abusing their childhood?

By now my cup of tea was empty. As I made to leave, I asked Ms. Olutola, was he called a Bishop then? No she said; we called him Pastor. Who would have imagined that in just a few years the small fellowship venue would be transformed to an estate and his used beetle given way to a jet? Indeed God is good, she concluded. Well, if a title is all it takes to celebrate a life of service, he deserves to be called an Archbishop.

Omolola Famuyiwa is Project Director of Cares Global Network and Editor of Willows Magazine.

Real or Official Age

2011-05-16T18:09:00.002-04:00

The “birther” controversy in the United States against President Barack Obama raises two pertinent issues for us as Nigerians; the issue of age and race.

If our birth were to be contended by anyone, how easy would it be for us (as Nigerians) to pull out our real birth certificates? I know of a young lad who lost an admission to a school abroad because he mistakenly quoted his real age on his application form. To get into primary school years back, his parents had sworn an affidavit for him showing that he was six years when in actual fact he was only four years. So, all his life he was compelled to use his “official” age. I know of a friend who ended up marrying a younger guy against her wish; the guy claimed his “social status” age. The younger “official” age that was quoted on the curriculum vitae was the reason a dear one said no to having a relationship with a great guy; only to find out his real age as he laid in the coffin! I bet you have more stories. Needless to say there is no better time to put your records straight than now when a lot of seemingly honest people are called to the courts to answer for their supposedly hidden past.

Come to think of it, how, when, where, why, and what led to people using the so-called “official age”? Some say it is motivated by social, economic, health, educational or employment reason but I say it is plain dishonesty which has eaten deep into the fabric of our society. Official age, how glamorous! We glamourise what others are put behind the bars for in other countries.

But sadly, this dishonesty is motivated and encouraged by our society. How do you explain that employers of labour continue to ask for 25 years with 5 years work experience? Well, with the advent of private universities, the children of the rich may fit into the profile of 25 with 5 years experience. So what should a middle class 28-year-old do; remain unemployed or tell a lie that has become accepted? Try granting liberty to all those in private service to change their age to real age without repercussion and you’d be shocked at the population that falls into the category of using official age. These days, children (especially of the middle and lower class) enter higher institutions late (if at all); no thanks to the Joint Admissions Matriculation Board, Post-JAMB and of course the almighty strike is there to ensure they are well advanced in age before getting their certificates. So who is to blame; the government, for not providing the enabling infrastructure, the society for asking for the impossible or the court of law for wilfully issuing age declaration affidavits with reckless abandon?

Few years back, some banks sacked workers without university degrees and our government moped. Those who were children then learned one thing: polytechnic is not a place to go. So years down the line, we find millions trying to find a place in the universities that are grossly inadequate. They wait and wait till they gain admission only to spend donkey’s years to make sense of whether it was necessary to have bothered.

The second pertinent issue is the issue of race. At least by virtue of being born by an American mother, Obama can lay claim to his nationality as an American but what of his nationality as a Kenyan? Would he ever have been able to contest for any notable position in Kenya even if Kenya were to become the most important country in the whole world? Despite having risen to become what some may refer to as the world’s number one President, majority of the people he leads still question his nationality. This points to one fact: no matter how well you adapt, adopt, acclimatise; the colour of your skin speaks louder than your voice. At least in the world we live in today.

We as Nigerians need to value our culture and teach it to our children. Obama’s pride of place was fashioned by a mother who ensured he learnt her culture. If Obama were born in Kenya by an American woman, I have no doubt that she would have groomed him not as a Kenyan but an American. But what if his mother were Kenyan and he was born in America? I bet he would have been groomed as an American. How come most Africans, especially Nigerians, edit their culture from their children’s diet especially where such children are born outside Nigeria? As I travel all over the globe, I meet more and more Nigerians who have chosen not to share the Nigerian culture with their children. Versatility is great as long as you master the rudiment of navigating your own turf. It would be foolhardy not to learn the culture of where you reside but why relegate or worse still, forget your root when according to David Diop in the poem, Africa, “your blood flows in my veins.”

While discussing this issue with my Alumni Group, Mr. Ademola Awonaike, a human resource consultant whose family lives abroad had this to say:

My children speak Yoruba in the US and will prostrate for you when you see them. They yearn to come home and remind me of our local television programmes. We cannot forget our source because if we do, we may dry up like the river without a source.

But the truth is most Nigerians in the Diaspora have forgotten their roots. I’m proud of those who haven’t and my face always lit up when our children curtsy to me abroad or speak our language. Local television programmes for children would have been a great medium through which we can teach our culture but are they still in existence? Our poetry, folklores and plays have sunk into the back burners of globalisation.

Mr. Dean Arutoghor who previously worked with primary and secondary schools in London had this to say:

It amuses me when I come across professionals who have always spoken their mother-tongue and also speak good English claiming it confuses their children. Meanwhile millions of other Nigerian children are managing fine. I noticed that even Nigerian and other African children who could speak or understand their mother-tongues never spoke those languages to one another - in or out of school. Meanwhile, Chinese and Indian children are continually yapping away in and out of school in their mother-tongues as soon as they can speak. Another thing on language, African kids seem to be the only kids in the playgrounds in the schools I worked who were actually ashamed or awkward about (their own words) of openly speaking in their mother-tongues. African children seem to be the only children in the playgrounds in the schools I worked who were actually ashamed and felt awkward about openly speaking in their mother-tongue.

According to Mr. Arutoghor, these children – Chinese, Indians etc – come top in primary and secondary school examinations year in, year out in London. Chinese no.1 and Indians no.2 (you may check this out on Guardian Education and other reliable British media websites).

How come Nigerian parent erroneously believe that speaking their mother-tongue will stop you from getting to the top or from being able to speak with a British or American accent?

Every now and then when I insist that Yoruba children should speak Yoruba to me, you begin to hear all the unforgiveable errors! Most of them will say, “Mo gbo (I can hear), only I cannot speak.” A mix of rice and beans is neither rice nor beans it is adalu (mixture). And to think they say such arrant nonsense with a smile! Even my own brother who made so much noise about how his children would speak Yoruba has failed, claiming his wife did not teach them. But believe it or not, in my infrequent visits to the United Kingdom, these children learned Yoruba songs, games and signs. Mr. Awonaike confirmed that the agreement he had with his wife, who is with the children most of the time, is that they must learn, understand and speak the language. Such simple agreement is what is needed in most Nigerian homes not only abroad as this phenomenon of shying away from our language is gaining ground even at home. The job of instilling our culture in our children should not be left in the hands of one parent where both are available and accessible. One parent agreed, “I need to be on top of this [teaching our culture to children] as I seem to fall into complacency at times.”

The job of teaching our culture especially our language is the job for all. It is not enough that local languages are thought in schools. Government should make a conscious effort to celebrate our culture. When I say culture, I do not mean the language alone but greetings, dressing, eating etc. I am yet to see a child who was brought up with the Nigerian culture who would dress indecently given that our culture speaks of self-respect. Unfortunately today, not only have we shied away from teaching our culture, we are beginning to confuse our children even in the English we speak – students now mix British with American spellings, that is if they are not writing in short messaging codes. Most Nigerians commemorate the Mother’s Day for UK and USA. It is very easy to fall for anything when we don’t stand for something. If it is becoming increasingly difficult for adults especially those in the Diaspora to answer the question, who am I, then you may rest assured that our children are in the pit of confusion. I once heard an African say to his mum, “You yell too much!” This is definitely unheard of in the African culture except from children who have become unteachable.

Well, whether our language – be it Hausa, Igbo, Idoma, Egba, Ekiti, or Ishan... – becomes extinct is in our hands as parents, teachers, public servants etc. To corroborate what Mr. Arutoghor said, my Mum had never stepped out of Nigeria at the time I was birthed, in fact as at that time she was a school certificate holder working as a telephone operator with NET, now NITEL (that is a story for another day), yet I learned to speak English enough to dazzle the Queen Mother, making her subjects wonder if I was born abroad, and Yoruba very well enough to make my people wonder whether I have ever been out of Nigeria.

Perhaps I should let folks who believe that speaking “native” language or vernacular (as they now sadly call it) will rob their children of Queen’s English; you are wrong. A child below 5 years has the ability to learn and speak 5 languages she/he is exposed to on a daily basis. Amazing; that’s God’s work.

Another parent’s response to Dr. Akindele’s position is that parental effort might not be enough as the children of those black parents who do not bother to enlighten their children about the positives of their culture sometimes grow up to stab the children of those parents who do. There is too much self-hatred and dislike amongst black youths. And I daresay this can be attributed to the loss of identity. If we don’t tackle the negative image they have to contend with collectively, then who will?

We need to teach our children the simple values of honesty, diligence, self-esteem, respect for self and others and contentment etc. We also need to teach our culture and racial identity and the inner strength it offers. President Obama would never have been able to coordinate affairs in a place called White House if he did not come to terms with his blackness. In our quest for equity and equality, in our struggle for prominence in the global field, we must retain our identity and remain culturally relevant.

Let’s not keep this issue on this page; share it on social networks, at family or social functions; years down the line that man or woman, girl or boy who sneered at you for sharing will acknowledge you by saying adupe, nagode, dalu, merci, gracias, shukran.

For comments you may reach the writer via editor@willowsmagazine.com. The first part of the article was published on Friday, May 13, 2011 while the second was published on Monday, May 16, 2011.

Dr. Adeleke Akindele, a General Practitioner in the UK had a different take on the issue. He affirmed in a recent chat that languages like Chinese/Mandarin and other Asian ones are seen as ‘exotic’ hence the children don’t have a problem speaking them in public and their parents don’t have a problem teaching such language to them. Most black Africans try to lose the ‘African’ tag because it is less exotic and usually the impression of our continent is of the ‘heal the world’ era. These kids have to contend with being black and African which is not an easy task in most UK schools. What’s the solution? Teach you own child and leave the rest.

Media Freedom

2011-05-06T15:47:00.004-04:00

What do Dele Giwa, Sunday Bwede, Nathan Dabak, Bayo Ohu, Samson Boyi, Sam Nimfa-Jan, Fidelis Ikwuebe, Okezie Amaruben, Tunde Oladepo, Edo Ugbagwu, Paul Abayomi Ogundeji, Godwin Agbroko, Ephraim Audu, and Baguda Kaltho have in common? They were journalists. A profession that served them the death warrant in the hands of those who hate the freedom of expression. Their contribution to freedom of expression, democracy and peace is etched in the minds of those who continue to fearlessly practice the trade.

The United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) is UN’s agency with the mandate to evaluate and defend freedom of expression and promote freedom of the press. Article 1 of its Constitution requires the Organisation to “further universal respect for justice, for the rule of law and for the human rights and fundamental freedoms which are affirmed for the peoples of the world, without distinction of race, sex, language or religion, by the Charter of the United Nations.”

There is no better way to promote this mandate than the celebration of World Press Freedom Day which took place at a three-day conference in Washington DC from May 1 – 3 2011 at the Newseum and the National Press Centre. The event was attended by over 600 journalists, new media innovators, policymakers and press freedom advocates from across the globe including Omoyele Sowore, Publisher of Sahara Reporters, who was one of the panelists in the Censorship Without Bothers breakout session. The World Press Freedom Day was born 20 years ago by a group of journalists gathered under the auspices of UNESCO in Windhoek, Namibia. Twenty years on, the media landscape has changed beyond recognition but UNESCO’s objective according to the Director General remains the same; “to promote freedom of expression as the foundation of human dignity and as a cornerstone of democracy”. After Windhoek, events every day show that promoting freedom of expression remains as important and as challenging as ever.

While speaking at the opening ceremony, Irina Bokova, first female Director-General of UNESCO says that freedom of expression is vital for strong democracies and for human development and security and UNESCO is dedicated to ensuring that the internet becomes a global public resource as a means of fostering the freedom of expression and access to information. This according to Ms. Bokova calls for media and internet literacy and it requires defending the integrity and safety of journalists everywhere. She reiterated that violations of fundamental human rights cannot go unanswered.

In presenting the results of the annual press freedom report, Karin Karlekar, Senior Researcher at Freedom House said the 8-year decline experienced between 2002 and 2010 may be coming to an end going by the strides made globally especially with Subsaharan Africa showing some improvements. For most region, narrowing of space for independent broadcasting, control of new means of information disemination and suppression of press freedom has continued. The survey rated in terms of press freedom, four countries as improved - Moldova, Guinea, Liberia and Niger, having moved from, “not free“ to “partly free“ or from “partly free“ to “free“ and five as being worse off - Egypt, Mexico, South Korea, Honduras and Thailand, having moved from “free“ to “partly free“ or from “partly free“ to “not free“ as the case may be. A large map showing how countries faired graced the Newseum during the conference. Details of the survey and analysis can be found in the report; Freedom of the Press 2011: A Global Survey of Media Independence.

According to Stephen King, Investment Partner, Omidyar Network, host of opening reception, “For those who share interest or passion in seeing that press freedom is protected and promoted, we can all take advantage of the opportunities presented by new technologies to further these freedoms." As part of its efforts to promote government transparency, Omidyar Network in conjunction with a group of outside donors, including the Gates Foundation and the Mo Ibrahim Foundation will be giving $2 million grant over two years to the Media Development Loan Fund, $450, 000 over three years to the Sahara Reporters, $800, 000 to the Committee to Protect Journalists over the next year and $1.7 million over the next two years to the African Media Initiative, a consortium of private and independent African outlets aiming to strengthen the continent’s media landscape and promote transparency, rule of law and democratic governance.

Nigeria no doubt has made some strides. After 12 years of pushing against the tide, the House of Representatives unanimously passed the Freedom of Information Bill on February 24, 2011 while the Senate passed it on March 16, 2011. However, there are many differences between the versions of the Bill passed by both chambers of the National Assembly, some of which are quite significant and have far-reaching implications for the efficacy of the rights guaranteed under and the fulfillment of the obligations created by the Bill. Media Rights Agenda and members of other civil societies are anxious to conclude the harmonisation process so that the plenary sessions of both Chambers of the National Assembly can adopt the harmonised version of the Bill and fast track its transmission to the President for assent as required by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999, as amended before the end of the current administration.

The three-day conference, sponsored by the United States, UNESCO and other partners, concluded on Tuesday with a closing ceremony during which the jailed Iranian journalist, Ahmad Zeidabadi was awarded the Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize. Zeidabadi, the Editor-in-Chief of Azad Newspaper, is currently serving a six-year jail term following Iran’s disputed 2009 presidential election. Ahmad dedicated the award to his family and “to all whose sons never returned home. I dedicate it to tearful mothers, sisters, daughters and children who live with the pain of having their loved ones in prison. For remembering us, God will remember and reward you.”

“When free media is in jeopardy, all other freedoms are threatened,” said U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton who made the final remark via a video conference. The theme of the 2011 conference was New Media in the 21st Century: New Frontiers, New Barriers. To honour this theme, participants at the event took part in an online conversation on press freedom. Tweets were marked with the hash tags, #WPFD and #PressFreedom and participants were encouraged to share the event on other social media platforms. At the close of the conference, the Washington Declaration was presented and adopted.

Though the website of the Committee to Protect Journalists report that 861 journalists have been killed globally since 1992 with 15 for Nigeria, it is public knowledge that many more have died just for daring to bring the truth to the attention of all. As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day, we call on UNESCO to update the web page dedicated to journalists who were assassinated in the exercise of their profession. Instead of duplicating effort, UNESCO may work with the Committee to Protect Journalists to ensure that all known journalists felled in the line of duty are listed. This will be a constant reminder that the fight for access to information and freedom of expression must be won for the souls of many that have died or are still in chains for holding up information to the light of truth. In Maya Angelou’s words, we may encounter many defeats but we must not be defeated.

The power in information can never be over emphasised. In the words of a former American President, Thomas Jefferson, “Were it left to me to decide whether we should have a government without newspapers, or newspapers without a government, I should not hesitate a moment to prefer the latter.” As we commemorate the World Press Freedom day, I join millions of people globally to honour the heroism of all those who make great sacrifice to freely express themselves in whatever medium; daring all intimidation. I ask that you stand, as we did at the conference, for a minute of silence to honour our fallen heroes whose ultimate price is reason enough to keep up clamouring for free press everywhere.

Omolola Famuyiwa is Project Director of Cares Global Network.

Eradicating Mosquitoes or Reducing Malaria?

2011-05-05T20:29:00.005-04:00

On Saturday April 16, 2011 some prominent comedians in the United States of America put together an event at the Nokia Theatre, Los Angeles tagged, “Hollywood Bites Back”, a night of comedy to help support the fight against malaria, helped raise $750, 000 to end malaria in Africa, not because malaria is a comic disease but because they decided to add their quota to human development. According to the Associated Press, celebrities such as John Mayer, Orlando Bloom, Ted Danson and Elizabeth Banks and others recorded public service announcements about the disease, which reached millions nationwide and culminated in the live comedy show. Ironically, the comedy in this for me is the fact that billions of Naira after the discovery of this killer disease and decades after the eradication of malaria in some countries, Nigeria still grapples with this mosquito causing nuisance of a disease.

“Idol Gives Back” is another special fundraiser focused on fighting extreme poverty in Africa. In addition to generating more than $140 million in proceeds, this American Idol initiative also raised a great deal of awareness about the need to combat the spread of malaria (which no doubt is a poverty-based disease) in Africa. Many corporate organisations donated handsomely to the initiative at enabling the distribution of hundreds of thousands of bed nets throughout the disease-stricken communities in Africa. Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation should be commended for their efforts towards human development. This year, ExxonMobil is partnering with Family Care to promote and publicly broadcast various prevention and treatment tools and resources in Nigeria and a photo exhibition - Champions to End Malaria – at the United Nations Headquarters in New York, USA. Ironically, some of the oil wells and oil spills by oil producing companies have had the negative effect of causing malaria. According to researchers in Florida, “The Gulf oil spill could wipe out a potential cure for malaria and treatments for cancer and other diseases by killing off marine organisms that are the basis of experimental drugs.”

Anthony Lake, the UNICEF Executive Director, said in his World Malaria Day Address recently that, “Everyday, around 2,000 children die from a mosquito bite.” He went on to confirm that, “We have effective measures to combat this deadly disease - and we must use them to save lives.” The question is, why must we continue to bury our children (or anyone) when simple health procedures can rid us of this killer disease? For emphasis, I grew up learning that malaria is a preventable and curable disease. I grew up taking Sunday-Sunday Medicine (Daraprim) and learning that the use of bed net, spraying of insecticide in one’s bedroom hours before bedtime (to avoid choking, nasal congestion etc) and ensuring one’s environment is rid of breeding grounds for mosquito are great ways to fight the battle against malaria.

Malaria in humans is caused by a protozoon of the genus plasmodium and the four subspecies, falciparum, vivax, malariae, and ovale. The species that causes the greatest illness and death in Africa is plasmodium falciparum. The World Health Organisation reported 247 million cases of malaria and almost one million deaths in 2008, most of whom were African children. The disease is spread through mosquito bites and causes flu-like illness, fever, shaking, headache, chills, muscle aches, tiredness and vomiting and can be fatal if not treated, according to the WHO. The most severe manifestations are cerebral malaria (mainly in children and persons without previous immunity), anaemia (mainly in children and pregnant women), and kidney and other organ dysfunction (e.g., respiratory distress syndrome). Persons repeatedly exposed to the disease acquire a considerable degree of clinical immunity, which is unstable and disappears after a year away from the endemic-disease environment.

Over the years, however, business people have come to benefit immensely from the insecticide treated nets, insecticides with nice scents, repellants etc. Campaigns on malaria have become a source of income to the consultants, the media, printers etc. Malaria has opened more economic doors yet continues to drain out the lives of our precious ones, sending tears and wailings into the homes especially across Africa.

For me, the news about the researchers from Imperial College London and the University of Washington, Seattle genetically modifying large population of mosquitoes that could dramatically reduce the spread of the deadly disease eventually is heartwarming and should be followed through but the question is how many of such mosquitoes would be released into our environments and where? Hopefully, this will not have contra-effects on humans biten by the genetically modified mosquitoes (gmm). “This is an exciting technological development, one which I hope will pave the way for solutions to many global health problems,” said Andrea Crisanti of Imperial’s Life Sciences department, who led the study.

We definitely need to strengthen research capabilities. More biomedical research schools should be established and more young people should be encouraged to sign up for careers in scientific research. Research centres and laboratories should be refurbished, equipped and supplied with adequate technology and resources for field work.

According to the UNICEF, between 2004 and 2010, more than 400 million nets were delivered to malaria-endemic countries, with 290 million delivered since 2008 alone. These 290 million nets are enough to cover approximately 80 per cent of country-stated net need across Africa. These efforts have led to real progress as global malaria deaths dropped by 20 per cent between 2000 and 2009 - a figure that represents many thousands of individual children’s lives. But the question is, should we be talking about a drop in percentage or a landslide reduction or outright eradication? Why must we continue to offer nets when we can offer fishes as far as combating malaria is concerned?

As experts indicate, ninety seven per cent of the Nigerian population is said to be at risk of infection resulting in approximately 300,000 malaria deaths annually. A lot of these deaths occur among children under five years of age. Are we going to continue to respond to these deaths by increasing appropriate malaria treatment or implementing the Affordable Medicines for malaria or distributing millions of long lasting insecticidal nets? Or improving malaria case management with Artemisinin-based Combination Therapies for malaria or convening ministerial conferences on malaria or strengthening of the WHO/AFRO Task Force and the Multilateral Initiative on Malaria in Africa? Or, as many expect, are we going to put the tools for combating this killer disease in the hands of the populace especially people in the endemic countries?

Our forefathers survived the malaria epidemic by keeping their environments clean and instituting sanitation officers, referred to then as wole wole, and by using medicinal herbs. Even though the use of medicinal herbs as curative therapy has been challenged times and again, I grew up knowing about Dongoyaro and how it was researched by the West and is now used as one of the ingredients for malaria drugs. True or untrue, one thing I can confirm is that I have had to drink Dongoyaro, Ewuro (bitter leaf) and lemon grass tea to survive malarial bouts. Today, many people still settle for herbs either because of the real or perceived potency, absence of side effects (no itching) or because they are available and affordable. While I cannot condemn the use of herbs, there is definitely the need to do more research especially to determine how they should be taken, the constituents and of course, their dosage. We have entered into collaborative efforts for many years to combat many diseases; is it not high time we began to look inwards? Collaboration between herbalists, traditional doctors, medical doctors and bio-medical researchers will be a step in a progressive direction. Suffice it to say that this will surely serve the people good.

I remember a couple of people dying while I was in secondary school many years ago. They came down with malaria and because they were not adequately treated or perhaps their immunity was low, the disease graduated to what my matron described then as cerebral malaria (accute malaria of the brain). To me, it appears that the Federal Government like Donald Trump is chasing shadows or may have come down with philosophical ‘cerebral malaria’. Or, how do we explain that malaria has continued to wipe out our most precious assets – humans especially children – and all we do is wait for aid from far lands to combat this daylight killer? Look into our history and you’d see unconventional methods through which we have solved very serious problems and addressed complex challenges. Was it not with Pidgin English that we rewrote the history of colonialism? The Agbekoya Revolt of 1968-1969 was an unusual collective action against unpopular government policies. We have fought the war to remain a united country. Why then should mosquitoes bend our knees and like one of the television adverts and cause us to become shakky-shakky people.

According to Robert B. Zoellick, the President of the World Bank Group and Ellen Johnson Sirleaf, President of Liberia and the incoming Chair of the African Leaders Malaria Alliance, beyond the wide distribution of mosquito nets, ending malaria deaths will require making sure that effective diagnosis and timely treatment become available to every patient. Health authorities need to keep better track of where malaria still exists and which drugs produce the best health outcomes. We want funding to be effective, not simply throwing money at the problem.

Such initiatives as Malaria No More, Malaria Vaccine Initiative – MVI, Medicines for Malaria Venture – MMV, Nets for Life, PSI Malaria Control, Roll Back Malaria (RBM) Partnership, UN Foundation Nothing But Nets, have helped with reducing malaria but really does any of these initiatives have an expiry date? If no exit date, how feasible are plans to eradicate this scourge?

With all the elephant projects with rhinoceros names, malaria continues to gulp as fraudulent people map out ways to steal the funds that should go into education, better health facilities, ensuring our environment is rid of gutters and shanties... If all the funds had gone into enlightening and educating us into changing our behaviour and making our environments liveable, we would have signed off malaria long before now. Perhaps our best efforts are not directed in the best possible ways.

Malaria is a scourge that must be eradicated not merely reduced. If our pregnant women are safe from malaria, they will have healthy children. If the children stay healthy; deaths from malnutrition can be reduced. Fighting malaria not only saves children’s lives, but also yields many other health and economic benefits. Malaria has serious social, economic, and developmental implications for human development. We need not wait until citizens from malaria-endemic countries are disallowed from travelling overseas before taking drastic measures. To successfully combat this killer disease, we need to place the control strategy on a strong research base, enter into locally relevant collaboration and encourage sustainable private and government partnerships and initiatives to sustain their support for the eradication of the disease. “We cannot leave some children exposed to malaria and other children safe,” said Lake. “Whether it is insecticide-treated nets, proper diagnosis, or effective treatment, the challenge is to provide protection and care to every single child who is at risk.”

This article first appeared in Punch Newspaper of Friday, 29th April, 2011 with the concluding part on Monday, 2nd May, 2011. Famuyiwa is Project Director of Cares Global Network.

Mainstreaming Child Rights Issues

2010-08-25T11:20:00.004-04:00

Individual effort may move us forward but joint effort towards our goal will take us far. Those who advocate on media about issues relating to children need to come together. A decision to do at least one story/programme/interview etc on children or against child rights abuse will go a long way to mainstream these issues. See Nigeria Children Council. Together we can stop the abuse against the girl child, together we can promote quality media for children, together we can keep children on Nigeria's top agenda.

According to Olabisi Adesina, a former staff of Metro FM Nigeria and child rights advocate, "The issue about having a least a story, interview etc on children has been talked about years ago when we attended UNICEF workshops. These are issues that have always been raised. If only media professionals see the importance of children issues in the media we will not be going in circles and repeating ourselves. We should not be begging to have the voices or issues of children published or broadcast. We need to make a positive impact instead of celebrating the greedy leaders and politicians."

That's a valid point. Don’t even remind me! All those workshops that ended up being paper workshops; all those workshops after which we had to go and fight our ogas to do something for children. I can’t recollect how many productions I had to do with my money…

I was at TVC recently to discuss the possibility of having a defined children belt which fortunately is on their agenda. But dear friends, the PM I met was neither ready to enter into partnership nor programme production. Interestingly the PM saw the need for human interaction and agreed it is very important for children to have quality and cultural media but guess how the discussion ended, “That’s just my opinion, if we can’t get anyone to buy airtime, we’ll just slot in cartoons.” Honestly what you’ll get across the media is not different. Just tune in between 4 and 7 to any channel and see what has become of our so called Children Belt.

Cartoons are funny, usually fast paced, well produced with rich colour mix. Our children would stay glued to them even when they cannot make out the grammar or identify with the splendid locations. I grew up watching a number of them myself but back then we had the benefit of locally produced programmes that satisfied our yearnings for local content. Cartoon would have been okay if culturally produced or relevant to the need of our children for quality local media. Unfortunately, foreign cartoons have become a neo-colonisation and westernisation tool. Plus research has found some of these animations, which were previously seen as safe for children, to be very violent with high level of sexual connotations; some are even pornographic!

Creating media for children have become highly commercial and until we carry the placard to compel stakeholders to do something, we’d just have to make do with our drop in the ocean effort. Perhaps we should consider a 1000 March on Media for Children during ICDB next year. Let’s even start with NBC. From my thesis research, I discovered they have a BIG plan in the NBC Code but that’s all it is, a plan! So so mouth, no action. If NBC can compel television and radio stations (for a start) to have no less than 2 hours of local programming for children per day, then we’d be off to some start. Having a PBS would be more like it but that may take another decade if the attitude of our leaders and politicians is anything to go by.

Stepping Out

2009-08-11T19:12:00.011-04:00

Are you okay? Are you sure you are okay? Why? These are the type of queries my decision to return to my homeland elicited. Why shouldn't I return? When I stepped out four (4) years ago, it was to do a master programme and return home. I did not even think of waiting an extra year.

Fourth quarter into my program, I got an opportunity to study for a second master programme. Why not tap into it? My Mum has always been interested in me doing a course in education so I decided on a course of study in education. But, instead of administration which has always been my Mum's first choice, I chose Cultural Studies. One win for her, one win for me.

It all started when signed up for an outreach program which saw me visiting schools to share the Nigerian and African culture with students and teachers. It made so much impact that the Director awarded me an assistantship to work as Cultural Consultant. The award covered about 70% of the fees. Talk about God making a way. Thinking that the assistantship was for two (2) years and with one year of my first master program done, I decided on the second master. Since I stepped out in faith, God stepped in when I was notified that it was just for a year. God ensured that despite having to go through interviews again, the assistantship came to me a second time.

But here am I, two months after shocking family, friends and acquaintances by stepping out of the US in faith, I am besieged by the fear of the unknown and I'm waiting to see what Nigeria offers before stepping in. My plan was to get a place of abode, get a job, a car and maybe a man as icing on the cake; all before stepping in. Sure God can do it but isn't that a way of baiting God, of boxing Jesus into a corner. If you do this, that and those, I will... When it seem nothing had changed in the direction of my needs, I started singing the song of "I'm jobless, homeless and manless" perhaps someone will hear my solo and offer help. But my God does not share His glory with anyone. He ensured all promises in that line had the tag of "when you return, I'll see what I can do." But?

How did I get to this point where like Thomas I want to see before believing? Thinking back to where it all started, going to America was a miracle. How else do one explain that God took me to Brazil to meet an Associate Professor from the US as a way of orchestrating my study abroad which I prayed for in Nigeria. How else do you explain that in answer to my prayer, strangers were located at my point of arrival to drive me to school and become a family that stuck close throughout my sojourn. How else do you explain that without the help of anyone, God led me from Ohio to Maryland to reside in a home that met every specification I desired. Miracle has trailed my going but now that it is time to return, I want to see to what God is asking me to return. How so very Didymus!

I have thought long and I have thougth deep now I'm done waiting. While I have no doubt that this waiting period is in line with God's plan, it is time to mix faith with my desire to impact Nigeria. It is time to step out. It is time to step up into what God has prepared for me; a global enterprise not just a job, a home garnished with peace not just a place of abode, an extra-ordinary man not just a husband...

Two weeks from now I'll be home to step into God's awesome favour. My testimonies shall challenge many and my story shall be marked out as glory.

Blog Claim

2009-08-11T19:10:00.002-04:00

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Water! Water! Everywhere

2009-08-04T16:54:00.007-04:00

Do you remember that newspaper headline, “Water, water everywhere and not enough to drink!” Ponds, rivers, wells, yet folks complain about not having enough. That’s the way it seems with men.

Gone are the days when men were in shortfall due to being at the war front. The war has moved from the fields to our doorsteps or even our hearts; more within than without. If you think men are less than demand then you haven’t taken a virtual tour. You’d be amazed at the number of dating sites – the good, the bad and the ugly. And the array of men – never married, single with a clause, complicated, separated, even married – that grace these sites make you wonder why there are still fewer husbands.

In my dictionary, these men would be mentally blind, psychologically deaf and socially dumb otherwise how come the internet has become a reach out zone reducing folks, in search of love, to mere profiles. Or perhaps they’ve ditched all those within reach and need to save face. A man once asked me if I wanted him to beg for my love; honestly if you ask me, that’s daft. Even peacocks flaunt and flirt just to get attention. We’ve been so brainwashed that money, employment and promotion has become the only reasons for which we flaunt our skills or seek self-development. If only more people will do a periodic self-assessment and seek to genuinely improve, then we are off to more people not only getting married but staying married.

These days it is easier to find a job than to find a man with a good head on his shoulders who is willing to settle down and build a home. Two very important ingredients – eligibility and accessibility; if a man is eligible and not accessible, what’s the point. Everyone wonders why you aren’t married; they are quick to conclude you are proud, yet no one seem to know any great guy who is eligible and accessible. What is the use of money you don’t have access to, what’s the benefit of a man who is available but not ready for the plunge?

Have you ever attended a so called "single and married" conference? After ignoring such for years I decided to attend one organised by a Church I consider very forward looking. Unfortunately they did not disappoint me: the questions as usual were asked by the married, directed at the married and ratified by a panel made up of the married! A talk show where the seemingly wise married talked down at the seemingly foolish singles. To acknowledge the singles that made up a chunk of the congregation, a liberal woman was magnanimous enough to tilt her response to one of the 9 compound questions towards singles.

The Church used to be where folks looked to find sane folks but these days the insane ones have left the streets to take refuge in the Sanctuary. For the mere fact that the major way to depopulate the kingdom of satan lies in family union, you’d question the lackadaisical attitude with which Pastors take the issue of marriage. You’d be glad to find a Church these days that have a thriving “singles” group. That’s a label right there! Singles! No one organises meetings for “barren”, "childless” or “divorced”. If you do find a Church with a singles group at all, the age group may very well be 14 till marriage (absurd!) or the leader would be most likely married (of course single people are too dumb to manage themselves or how else do you explain the oversight).

With the alarming population on dating sites, I am forced to believe that men seeking women are traveling north while women seeking men are traveling south. The dividing wall of Jericho on the runway stops you from responding to the wink of those that catch your fancy. When you do survive the challenging obstacle course, you may well discover that the subject of your fancy is underage, hooked on the bottle, chimney personified, good with his fist, jobless and lazy (two incompatible traits), a free thinker (perhaps gay), sexually obsessed, uneducated or just plain simply daft! And then you wonder what combination of these personalities some of the married may have compromised.

There’s water and like men there’s still not a clean glass to quench your thirst. Should uncles and aunties poke you at weddings to say “you’re next”, simply poke them at funerals to say the same. The music may not thrill you, the joke may not be funny but while you are here, dance and laugh! Your bones can use the swirl and your soul can use the giggle.

Behold the First American Family

2008-12-01T21:38:00.002-05:00

It really doesn't matter whether you grew up in the back woods or in the house by the beach. It doesn't matter if you grew up playing with a diamond spoon or a toy spoon. It doesn't matter if your parents were never married or they grew apart as divorce stepped in. It doesn't matter whether you are classified as a midget or a giant. Neither does it matter that men call you brunette, blond or black.

Think about John Brown who dared to question the supreme law on behalf of blacks. Think about Wole Soyinka who stepped forward to win the Nobel Laureate. Think about Magic Johnson who has defied AIDS and continued to live positively. Think about Oprah who chose to reach for the stars when others sought comfort in stars that beautified the pages of their books.

What matters is that you believe in yourself and you dare to soar as the wind beneath you propel you to excel.

Believe!

Khaki Brutality

2008-11-13T00:47:00.003-05:00

This is sickening! It feels more like a shot from Abacha days! In this age, you'd expect that the military would recruit educated humans not those with slave-age animal instincts. I wonder why Arogundade has not explained or apologized for his bodyguards’ animalistic behaviour. I’m glad the media and people out there reported this nonsense and gave it wide spread publicity. Many thanks also to the wise person who caught it on camera. Like many others did, we discussed the issue extensively in my Alumni Google Group and encouraged everyone to speak out against such erratic behavior. The people of power should learn to fly if they can't cope with the traffic world they have helped to create or better yet, create a traffic free Lagos.

I recently read about the treatment doled out to the blogger who shared reports and pictures about Yar'adua's son. I doubt that this administration is committed to democracy but what do we expect when the rape of democracy birthed them! We can only continue to speak out against their evil deeds and pray for a better 9ja.

I learned Ms. Okere is a daughter of a retired Colonel as such this may be handled internally. But that notwithstanding, Arogundade should be compelled to publicly apologise and the kuruntus should lose their badges; they belong more in the zoo.

Arogundade may get off without a bait of his eyelids but the true judge will always hand out due retribution. My Dad been hit by his staff and getting beaten for complaining, sinking a ship load of Bibles and gaining access into an Ilori’s privacy was done by MKO in secret yet the Lord who always measures us in fair scale saw to it that payback day did not exclude this man. Only true repentance eventually melted the hearts of Nigerians towards him.

Some have argued that Arogundade was not in the vehicle. Some are of the opinion that Uzoma did not move an inch because she had the military blood flowing in her vein. Others say rtd. Colonel Okereke was reported to have supervised the brutality in the National Assembly around 2004. Whatever may be the case, the incidence is wrong and should be condemned. Uzoma may just be the Rosa Parks that begins the long walk towards the bus stop to brutality meted out to civilians by men in khaki.

According to Section 353 of the Nigerian Criminal Code, "Any person who unlawfully and indecently assaults any male person is guilty of a felony, and is liable to imprisonment for three years." But Section 360 of the same Criminal Code states, "Any person who unlawfully and indecently assaults a woman or girl is guilty of a misdemeanor, and is liable to imprisonment for two years.

How many of this still remains in our Constitution or Criminal Code? Women legislators should be nudged with a wakeup call. We all must continue to speak out. Ken Saro Wiwa got the noose; his death becomes a sacrifice when we save thousands from similar penalties. Whether here or there, let’s not become too complacent as not to complain; you just never know when the noise against human right violation will strike the right chord.

Obama!

2008-11-05T08:52:00.003-05:00

Yesterday, I sent this out to my family, friends and colleagues:

American don sneeze, the world do catch cold o. It is really a hot chase with both of them defying tradition as they campaign in a fight to finish bid. The polls showed Obama leading but the projections are dicey. And in a country where na onikun lo mo ika (na person who hide wickedness for im stomach no where e hide am) we are all waiting for the results as we keep upholdng dear Barry in prayers.

The election has not been without hitch with both sides trying to dig up as much rubbish as they can against each other. Right now it's more about craving the indulgence of those who are yet to vote. The McCain camp are trying to pull a dirty prank by making automated calls in Spanish to Latinos to tell them that Castro supports Obama and by implication they should not vote for him.

Reporters are having a swell time playing the game they know best. Their reports still have to play host to electoral results, malpractices, faulty machines, and by implication lawsuits. Evangelicans are split based on the issues of health, tax and economy. While McCain seem to have the edge, the split based on issues means folks may vote contrary to tradition. John took some "blue" states for granted and this may very well work against him.

Hmn, who get headache, who dey take panadol; you ma sef leave ya doormouth go watch election! Here, people are buzzing from one election party to another; hopefully drunk driving won't be the next issue after the results. Whatever happens tomorrow Barry has made history, he has raised the stakes and given the whites a run for their supremacist mentality and opened up the gateway to a level playing field. Indeed there is no discrimination against excelence. The money he raised which some question helped him to strategise and organise. Also, the fact that Hillary gave him a fight put him on his toes and made his natural abilities and leadership skills shine.

Contary to opinion that his grandma who died yesterday did not wait to see her son become President, she waited long enough to see him excel above the ordinary. It is indeed a bitter-sweet experience to be here to watch history as it unfolds in the midst of an economic regression.

Whoever becomes the President-elect will return to Congress to plan a transition into a dishevelled economy as we all continue to prayerfully take our future in our own very hands.

At 11.04P.M the story changed and I updated at 11.15:

If you are neither Thomas nor Pessimist then you'd accept that Barry is President-Elect of the UNited States of America.

Virginia, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Florida, Vermont, Maryland, North Carolina... bowed to Black Barrack Barry Obama. Indeed there is no discrimination against excellence; that is a maxim I hold very dear to my heart. MLK, Harriet Tubman and a host of freedom fighters must have rolled over in their graves as history is made today 4th November, 2008

Few months ago, for a time capsule project I predicted that Barak will break through century-old racial barrier to be President but gas price will be a challenge. Today I can only say:

We have made history, we have been part of history now the challenge is to shape history positively. Let us continue to pray to God to grant Senator Barack Obama optimum health, protection, wisdom, mental clarity and political prosperity for Barack Obama, as he seeks to becomes the President-Elect of the United States! Amen.

Reporting live from MD

Songs of Freedom

2008-10-01T03:26:00.002-04:00

The global community has a long list of query; some even wonder why we should celebrate. But dear friends, today, we will celebrate our achievements and tomorrow we will continue on the road that will make our aspirations worthy of celebration.

I read through reports and all I see is gloom, miles beyond what I see in our streets. The pains I see is incomparable to the horrors brought to me live as I thread a foreign land. Does that make the pain acceptable? Definitely not. The whining has continued about where Nigeria is even though it took years of painstaking contributions from the developing to get the developed to where they are.

We have been the source of power to neighboring communities, yet, we still cannot boast of uninterrupted power supply. But in a country where the noose is not hung around our neck for taxes, I really wonder what we expect. In a country where we only recently began to trade in our parents’ ethics of spending only our earnings for cute credit cards, I really wonder what will now become of us.

I visited a city in Europe and was shocked at the percentage of immigrants; dem drive dem commot? These aren’t nations with porous borders yet they have through the pen and ink snatched all the good seeds from our wailing lands. Our hospitals have become lean by the day as other nations through the power of bills and coins continue to magnetize our best brains. Our oil reserve dwindles as we sell our products at dictated rates. Our education is said to be in shambles, yet our best brains garnish universities all over the world. Isn’t it colleges from this same nation that laid the foundation on which others now proudly build?

No doubt our leaders have been corrupt. While I cannot hold forth for them, evidence of the West’s divide and rule is partly responsible for the corruption that has taken over our land of milk and honey. While the world planned and schemed to oust an Abacha who drove us against the walls, we having no exit strategy, danced to our own music. Then, we did the unconventional thing – PRAYED and GOD took care of business. The world may not always play by the rules of the West. The day we understand that lesson will be the day we truly begin to encourage nations to apply local solutions to indigenous problems. That day, nations will truly begin to breathe the air of peace.

I have come to accept, that whereas the West is seen through tinted bifocals, African countries and indeed one whose population may have an over bearing effect on the world, is analyzed through mounted binoculars.

If I had a wand, I will wave it to bring about a day when we learn to truly celebrate our achievements and aspirations. One day, when all we do is celebrate the inputs of our fore-parents who wrenched us from legalized slavery and the contributions that connect us to the rest of the world via technology; a day devoid of the many hands that spoil the soup.

For Associations of Nigerians at Ohio University, we have chosen to bring about that day when we share our rich cultural heritage and celebrate what binds us as one great nation.

NIGERIA IS 48!

2008-10-01T01:47:00.001-04:00

My People,

As we celebrate our 48th Independence (October 1, 1960); I want to congratulate you (hopefully you never cancel ya citizenship). It has been a long road, yet we have not become weary (or have we?).

As Nigerians, we should continue to identify our stake in the nation which has laid the foundation directly or indirectly for whatever we lay claim to. Our greatness will be magnified as we individually and collectively work to celebrate our strengths and work through the opportunities presented by our weaknesses.

Before the great explorer, Mungo Park was credited as discovering River Niger; the people who lived on the bank of the Nigerian river used the river as source of water and knew its course. In essence; he was the first European to follow the course of the river for about 300 miles. In the same vein, Nigerians occupying the place and space that came to be known as Nigeria existed long before we were colonized by the British. It would be strange to re-date my existence to when I started school or when I first travelled out of Nigeria but such dates must be remembered as a milestone in one’s life.

Nigeria became a nation as politically defined when it gained independence on the 1st of October 1960. To honor the struggles of our fore-fathers and fore-mothers, we celebrate their courage and our aspirations. As a way of celebrating the independence with you in your big corner, I give you a taste of Nigeria in 48 sumptuous lumps. Feel free to share this with friends.

1. Nigeria, officially named the Federal Republic of Nigeria gained independence from the British in 1960 October.

2. Nigeria is made up of 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (Abuja). The former state capital (Lagos) remains the economic nerve center.

3. There are 274 ethnic groups where 250 languages are spoken. An origin mythology is attached to every tribe.

4. Money spent in Nigeria is called Naira. The amount is indicated in Yoruba, Hausa, Igbo and English on the note.

5. Though Nigerians are not considered Native speakers of the English Language by most United States’ colleges, the official language in Nigeria is English; British or Queen’s English. Pidgin (from Pigeon), a variation of the English language is widely spoken.

6. Nigerians are known for the culture of respect. People generally refer to men or women as old as their parents as mothers and fathers or uncles and aunties and close family friends and neighbors of one’s age may be referred to as siblings or cousins. First names are usually not accepted in relating to someone not in one’s age group.

7. Communal living is common; hardly will you find people living alone. Usually there would be a parent, sibling, cousin or friend sharing your home.

8. Visiting unannounced is accepted except in some religious instance. Relations may show up and expect to be pampered. Access to mobile phones and migration has affected this.

9. Parties are lavishly organized especially wedding, burials and naming ceremonies. Parties are usually fully sponsored by host/ host’s family. An invitation to dinner or film viewing means the host is making provision/paying.

10. Price haggling is a lifestyle. It is either you haggle from a higher price downwards (West) or a lower price upwards (North).

11. Naming ceremonies where gifts are given is usually done after the child is born. Paternal grandfathers usually have a say in the name given. It could be based on Christian, Islamic or Traditional belief.

12. Nigerians generally believe in the concept of God. God is known in different names and worshipped differently according to faith adopted.

13. Work-study is uncommon. Parents are wholly responsible for education, welfare and general upkeep of children often till marriage or when the child gets first job. In some cultures, first salary is handed down to parents as an indication that it is time to start paying back.

14. Children after coming of age (getting married, working or attaining the age of 25) are responsible for caring for parents/elders in the family. It is not unusual for demands to be made once one is comfortable enough to support.

15. Children (females especially) are not required to leave home until marriage.

16. Greeting is required and highly valued. Offence may be taken if you don’t greet properly. Handshake is permitted but when using this form of greeting for a much older person, wait for it to be initiated.

17. There are variations in greeting styles based on region or ethnic group. Yorubas generally kneel (female) or prostrate (males), Ibos bow slightly (males) or bend slightly (females) while Hausas bend down.

18. Education is highly regarded. It is not unusual for some parents to sell their all to educate a brilliant or willing child.

19. Question to a Nigerian may be responded to with another question instead of an answer e.g. Question: Where are you going? Response: Would you like to go with me? It is not something we learn, we just do it.

20. We seldom come early for functions but we are always on time. On time to begin or join a party means when family members or known faces have arrived.

21. When giving road direction, landmark descriptions are better. Referring us to a map would make us turn up much later. The concept of road navigation tool is new.

22. Money ‘spraying’ (where money is placed on forehead especially during dance) is common across the country. Some religious folks ask that the money be dropped at the feet of the dancer instead of placed on forehead.

23. House warming party is not unusual. In most cases the home is one built or fully paid for by the host.

24. Mortgage or credit card is a new trend. Until recently anyone with a new car or new house has paid in full with cash saved or borrowed.

25. Esusu (cooperative savings association in which members pay an agreed amount each month then each take a turn at receiving the sum collected) is done by some people to raise money instead of borrowing from the bank.

26. The rule about dressing is ‘be modest’. Revealing attire may earn you harassment which the law enforcement officers may not be able to save you from.

27. Polygamy is not approved by law. Tradition however accepts and welcomes it. A woman who leaves her husband due to polygamy is considered unaccommodating. Though women are not compelled to remain in a polygamous relationship; most merely separate instead of filing for divorce, especially where children are involved.

28. Eating with hand is permitted; you are required to wash your hands when joining others. Though cutlery sets are used, an average Nigerian can do without the dinner knife.

29. Basic manners enforced for children include mouth covering when coughing or yawning, saying thank you for gift or kindness received, saying please to request favor, saying I’m sorry to apologize and responding to greetings.

30. “Cane does not kill”, as such flogging is seen as a way to open up seemingly deaf ears to ensure the one being flogged hear the voice of reason that will lead her/him to lasting peace. Once a child being flogged runs to the bosom of someone older; the flogging stops. To continue means you are prepared to cane both of them.

31. Pregnancy is seldom announced except to close family members and friends. It is generally believed that “when your yam is white, you covertly eat it” though “God’s sprouting yam cannot be covered” this will ensure evil doers “arrive after the harvest; when they can no longer spoil the yam”.

32. Proverbs and proverbial sayings are commonly used; they are considered as palm oil with which words are eaten. The use of proverbs distinguishes native speakers from non-native speakers.

33. There is a general belief in the existence of witches/witchcraft and the power of evil which explains 31.

34. Water is seen as a pacifier. Anyone with a fever is asked to take a bath, during mediation water is given to both parties, water is offered to guests as a way of saying welcome, an angry person may be offered water first before discussion.

35. It is customary for husband to visit in-laws to announce the birth of a child especially first child. Some cultures still insist that the naming of the first child be done at the home of the paternal grandparents.

36. Marriage ceremony is usually organized by parents; it is seen generally as coming of age and a send forth to begin life alone for the couple. That has changed greatly with a number of people getting married late.

37. Unmarried women above 30 years of age seldom use the title ‘Miss’ though they may not welcome the use of ‘Ms.’ because it is seen as a title for divorcees. It is not unusual for women in this age range not to use titles.

38. In the past, a woman found to be a virgin on her wedding night is celebrated while the one not found to be is disgraced. Parents of the bride receive a gift of honor or of shame as the case may be.

39. Though the concept of wearing white by females for wedding and honeymoon for the couple has been adopted by city dwellers. Rural dwellers still practice remaining at home under the care of relations for a couple of days.

40. A bride-to-be may be sent to a fattening room. Being skinny or slim is seen as lack of wealth or good care. Mothers pay special attention to molding the buttocks of female children at birth.

41. Insurance may be bought by individuals but there is no national health insurance. Health care is provided through General Hospitals available all over the nation. At these hospitals, consultancy fee is waived and drugs are sold at a discount rate. Though this is mainly to cater to the middle or lower class, some top level folks use the service due to the availability of specialist care.

42. In the past, sanitation officers were required to visit homes and neighborhood to ensure the environment is kept clean but today some States have monthly environmental sanitation days. People are required to remain at home till 10am on such days for the purpose of cleaning their environment. Violators may be arrested.

43. There’s always a song; whether in sad moments, celebration mood, when offended, etc. It is not unusual for us to break into singing.

44. Indigenous family dramas are more popular than western soap operas. It is not unusual to find people crowded around a television under a canopy or in a corner shop to watch popular television programs.

45. Being the most populous country in West Africa, we are always in the news. Our newsmakers include Wole Soyinka, Chinua Achebe, Olusegun Obasanjo, Fela Anikulapo-Kuti (late), Cardinal Arinze, Enoch Adejare Adeboye, Mohammed Ali, Sade Adu, Kanu Nwakwo, JayJay Okocha, Dora Nkem Akunyili, Hubert Ogunde (late), Philip Emeagwali and Ken Saro-Wiwa.

46. There exist a very vibrant media; newspapers (over 150); federal (97) state (32) and private (14) television stations; federal (43), state (40) and private (17) radio stations; cable (35), direct to home/ direct satellite (5).

47. Thousands of people are drawn annually to the beauty of tourist places, festivals and crafts. To name a few: Obudu Cattle Ranch, Ikogosi Warm Spring (where cold and warm water flow naturally from a hilly landscape into same stream but does not mix), Yankari National Park, Redemption Camp, Olumo Rock, Durbar, Osun, Eyo, Sharo/Shadi, Argungu, Nok terracotta sculpture, Igbo-Ukwu bronze, Yoruba masks.

48. Nigerians are very proud of the rich cultural heritage we share. This includes dance, dance-drama, drama, music, oral traditions, philosophy, rites, rituals and fashion.

If in doubt about our dance skills or sense of fashion, join us on the 3rd & 4th of October, 2008 as the Association of Nigerians at Ohio University celebrates Nigeria’s independence.

Dearest Democrats,

2008-08-28T11:13:00.009-04:00

How is Denver and the political cloud over that state?

From the side line, I have watched and listened to Mitchelle, Hillary, Clinton and Biden and though I personally feel that Biden's speech was weak and Hillary's presidential, I have come to see the humane side of politics. I have also come to confirm with the unified clamp down on McCain that in politics there is no permanent friend and no permanent enemy.

Mitchelle sure gave doubters binoculars to see the emotional side she's always possesed. She set the tone for an epoch making convention; one in which we see not men and women who play the dirty game of politics but men and women with a humane heart for genuine change.

While Hillary may have been courted and Clinton compelled to verbalize their support for Barry; they in not towing that line may have jeoroadized Hillary's return into the race in future. That they were given quality spots on the train shows that at the end of the day, we all need each other to survive and "it is a fight we must win together."

One other thing that gets me all the time is how politics makes the strongest of men and women eat their words dry without the benefit of a fine soup. While Hillary, Clinton and Biden have tried in the last couple of days to set the records straight on the fact that Barry is ready for the White House, McCains bulldogs are using their fifth amendment about previous statements on Barry's inexperience to woo Hillary's undecisive supporters. They added a horn to their knock down dead approach by buying over one supporter and creating a pull-over "it's okay, really" advert of her swing from right to left. If I were part of Barry's PR team, I would not underestimate the impact of one ardent supporter's reach over the airwaves.

While only God knows for sure who the next American President will be, I know that the time for Republicans to relax and evaluate the last eight years is now, I know the time to sit on the side line - to watch how real humane men play out their multiple roles to the benefit of the economy while not letting down the home - is now. I know that the time to make hope alive in America is now.

It is 11.30am and the sky over Maryland is still same colour. I bet Democrats are having a swell time at the Denver convention (to which I was invited but declined) and we all are looking forward to a speech which may set the political climate on a historic course. When the sweet music begins and a wrong key is touched at intervals, hopefully we'd remember that Barack Obama, Joe Biden and all who will make up their cabinet are flesh and bood humans for whom the phrase to ere is human holds true.

Obama even as all eyes are on you, my earnest prayers go with you. I have already made arrangement to be at the inauguration; I implore all Democrats and Converts to make it a memorable and historic one for me by upholding Barack "Barry" Obama to change the future not only in "God's own country" but globally.

Choose Success

2008-06-21T09:23:00.004-04:00

When I signed up with OU I made up my mind not only to be successful but to complete at the signed up time. Despite the challenges; a couple of professors stood in the way of my success, God as usual took care of business.

While trying to rechannel my energy which was previously directed towards four jobs and full time study, I'll leave you with this teaching by a man I respect a lot. I'll return to download more of my experiences; the great, the good, the bad and the ugly of OU America.

Obama!

2008-06-12T18:21:00.018-04:00

American don sneeze, the world do catch cold o. It is really a hot chase with both of them defying tradition as they campaign in a fight to finish bid. The polls showed Obama leading but the projections are dicey. And in a country where na onikun lo mo ika (na person who hide wickedness for im stomach no where e hide am) we are all waiting for the results as we keep upholdng dear Barry in prayers.

The election has not been without hitch with both sides trying to dig up as much rubbish as they can against each other. Right now it's more about craving the indulgence of those who are yet to vote. The McCain camp are trying to pull a dirty prank by making automated calls in Spanish to Latinos to tell them that Castro supports Obama and by implication they should not vote for him.

Reporters are having a swell time playing the game they know best. Their reports still have to play host to electoral results, malpractices, faulty machines, and by implication lawsuits. Evangelicans are split based on the issues of health, tax and economy. While McCain seem to have the edge, the split based on issues means folks may vote contrary to tradition. John took some "blue" states for granted and this may very well work against him.

Hmn, who get headache, who dey take panadol; you ma sef leave ya doormouth go watch election! Here, people are buzzing from one election party to another; hopefully drunk driving won't be the next issue after the results. Whatever happens tomorrow Barry has made history, he has raised the stakes and given the whites a run for their supremacist mentality and opened up the gateway to a level playing field. Indeed there is no discrimination against excelence. The money he raised which some question helped him to strategise and organise. Also, the fact that Hillary gave him a fight put him on his toes and made his natural abilities and leadership skills shine.

Contary to opinion that his grandma who died yesterday did not wait to see her son become President, she waited long enough to see him excel above the ordinary. It is indeed a bitter-sweet experience to be here to watch history as it unfolds in the midst of an economic regression.

Whoever becomes the President-elect will return to Congress to plan a transition into a dishevelled economy as we all continue to prayerfully take our future in our own very hands.

Enjoy your week.
O. Reporting live from MD