Happy Independence Day Nigeria info@ekocitytv.com
MAGAZINE
CREDIT Editor Simbiat Bakare Editorial Team Abayo Gbeleyi Florence Williams Public Relations Serena Idehen VJ_Gweena Tech Joe Tiza Terhide Design Afeez Adebanke Cameraman Moses Adegboyega Contributors Mr Blessing Aghedo, Nilsia Lourdes dos Santos Adedokun Adeniyi, Al-Amin Babanawa Ajibogun Oladayo Dolapo, Olatomide Fadipe Otu Emmanuel Eville, Olaseni Onabule-Eze Olukolu Bolanle, Sandra Uduimoh Samuel Udoh, Preye Promise Edolor Wonderful Oyagbija Oluwadamilare Nanayat Adeboh, Blessing Aghedo Jare Ijalana, Dan Torey photography BOA stitches, Omuas Touch Chairman Otunba Salisu Elegushi Publisher & CEO Abiodun Fawumi
KM 14, Lekki/Epe Expressway, Ikate-Elegushi, Sabitex Hotel Drive, Lekki Lagos.
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EDITOR'S NOTE
I
n the spirit of Independence, Eko city media presents its October edition. This edition, Eko city revamp its magazine to fulfill its promise to you, bringing you exclusive details of Lagos state and keeping you abreast of happenings in the state and beyond. In line with our commitment, the team worked very hard and with passion, to share with you Lagosians experiences, business insights, cultural acumens, celebrity's stories, Naija fashion, and many more. Thus, in the pages that lie ahead, you will discover how to care for your mental health and those around you, you will find our chats with business and cultural leaders, you will see how Naija people showcase their creativity and lifestyle and their experiences. You will also find words that will inspire you to do more and achieve more. Our cover girl is the beautiful Jare Ijalana, dubbed the world's Most Beautiful Girl by Yahoo Lifestyle in 2018. You will find her story in the celebrity chapter of our magazine and you will also find inspirations on where to visit and have fun on Independence Day as recommended by the Iyaolade of Osun state. We hope as you read, you have as much fun as we did while producing the magazine. We also hope you find your chapterfavourite, one you look forward to each edition, and most importantly we hope our magazine leaves you with many impacts. We would like to thank everyone who has believed in Ekocity magazine since its first edition, we also want to thank every contributor, advertiser, and every reader. Please as you read, kindly pass it on to the next person around you to enjoy. Get copies to give it out as a gift to your special ones, and entertain your guest with it. Once again, we wish you happy independence. May the labour of our heroes past never be in vain.
Simbiat Bakare Editor, Ekocity Magazine
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Contents Pg 14-16
Pg 12-13 Pg 12-13
Pg 20-21 Pg 18-19
Pg 52-55
Pg 35-37
Pg 29-34
Pg 38-40
Pg 47-49
Pg 50-51
Pg 56-59
Pg 42-46
Pg 60-61
Stay inspired with Eko City “The pessimist sees difficulty in every opportunity. The optimist sees opportunity in every difficulty.” – Winston Churchill
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Eko O Ni Baje
Lagos Revamp: Better Roads Ahead Hundreds of people travel in and out of Lagos daily. Some come in for love while some come in for their daily bread or entertainment. While thousands of people march in on a daily basis using the road as their major means of transportation, the ground suffers. Large potholes plague the city, leaving Lagos not just an unpleasant sight to behold, but a city of traffic. For many years, the roads were left unconstructed, as the government turned a blind eye to the bad perilous roads. However, better roads are ahead as one hundred and seventeen billion naira has been allocated for Lagos road infrastructure and many highways are now being reconstructed.
“Better roads are ahead, as one hundred and seventeen billion have been allocated for Lagos road infrastructure and many highways are now being reconstructed” www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 12
Eko O Ni Baje One of the highways being constructed is the Lekki Regional Road. The project, being carried out by Hi-Tech, is expected to be completed in 2022 and is being done with the expectation to improve socio-economic activities and decongest the recurrent traffic jam along the main LekkiEpe Expressway. Thus, the contractors are linking the Lekki-Epe Expressway at Victoria Garden City (VGC) Junction to the Freedom Way in Eti Osa. The governor of the state, Babajide Sanwo-Olu had said: “Our word is our bond. We know what people go through on the Lekki-Epe Way as a result of traffic. We are moved to hasten the process of putting the Regional Road in place to bring relief to our citizens working and living in this axis.” Another area being constructed is the Ogudu-Alapere Link Road at Kosofe Local Government Area. The project, allocated to Fountain Construction Company Limited, is expected to last for nine months. At a part of the project area (Ayorinde Street at Ogudu area of Ojota), construction is already ongoing.
Ogudu Alapere Link Road Project.jpg
Including the Lekki Regional Road, one hundred and eighty-one roads have been approved for reconstructions, reiterating that Eko O ni Baje. The roads have been contracted to several engineering companies including Julius Berger, Hitech, Arab Contractors, Metropolitan Construction, Slavabogu Construction, China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation (CCECC), Rajaf Foundation Construction, and RCF Nigeria Ltd. Many of the roads are currently being constructed. The scheduled local government areas/ streets for revamping include: 1a, JJ Oba Remo Road, Agege; 2, Arigbanla Street, Off Iyana Ipaja Rd, Abekoko; 3, Dspensary Road, Amukoko; Iludun Street, Amukoko; 1, Baale Compound, Obadore; Osunba Street, Igando; 41 Road, Festac Town; 1, Balogun Street, Kuje; 41, Gaskiya College Road, Ijora Badia; 1. Hundeyin Street, Badagry; 17, Olorunda, Former Rest House, Iworo, Badagry; 1, Oba Elegushi Road, Ilasan; 1-7, Muri Okunola Street, Victoria Island; 1, Kayode Street, Off Iju, Ajuwon Rd, Ogundimu; 1, Bioyin Street, Alakuko; Otunba T O S Benson Road, Ikorodu; 57, Itire-Ikate; and 13/17, Baruwa Street, Ijeshatedo, Lagos.
Ayorinde Street, Ogudu Road, Ojota
Like many Lagosians, Eko City is pleased with the reconstructions and efficient use of tax payers' monies while looking forward to a better Lagos daily. Fountain Construction Engineers at Work on Lagos Development
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Talented
Samuel Udoh is from Akwa-Ibom State but resides in Lagos. He is a contortionist and a certiďŹ ed yoga teacher.
Samuel
Udoh The Extraordinary Contortionist
Talented
You have a flexible body and an amazing talent. How did you discover it?
“I can't wait to show my talent to the world and make the universe my stage.”
I have always known that I'm flexible when little but then discovered a lot about my talent when I got to junior secondary school. There I met new friends who observed my body was much different than theirs. One of my friends said: "Sam why do your fingers bend backward so easily, most especially when you give thumbs up it's not straight as others own". That was when I started paying more attention to my body and making research on flexible humans. Thus, this led to my discovery of my talent although I wished I had known sooner.
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Talented
“I believe if you win any challenge in Lagos, just know when you get to other states you will not only become their superstar you will become their role model.” What message do you intend to pass through your work of art? Unlike other contortionists, the messages I pass out more often is the message of Christ. Thus, I steward my art to honour him and to bless others. I believe talented people are meant to use our God-given abilities to reach those who don't know God and give him the credit for our talent. What has been your biggest achievement through your talent? My biggest achievement was when I decided to leave Lagos to Abuja for a Gospel Competition. I took a night bus to the venue because I had financial constraints. When I got to the venue, I did my best to showcase my talent uniquely, however, I didn't make it to the top three even though I made it
to the finals. After the competition, the spotlight was on me like I had won. The love, the cheers, and celebrations were overwhelming. People kept commenting that my art is beyond any stage in Nigeria. The audience at the event made me see a clearer photo of how far I have gone and how much I should be proud of myself. Yo u h a v e p e r f o r m e d o n different platforms including CGT Nigeria. What is your most memorable performance and was? My most memorable performance was an act during Stage Nigeria in Abuja (showcasing the artistry of G o d 's e xc e l l e n c e ) . T h a t changed my spiritual life and it was beyond just competing as we contestants were supportive of one another.
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Also, the Gospel concert after I returned to Lagos "ARAMANDA" was another memorable performance of mine. As you know we are a magazine dedicated to sharing the best of Lagos, can you share with us your Lagos experience? And what do you love about Lagos? I love Lagos and I love the competition and the vibes I get from my fellow Lagosians. Like the Warri people say: "Warri no dey carry last", but I'm so sure if they should meet a Lagosian anywhere, they will carry that last because this is the centre of excellence. I believe if you win any challenge in Lagos, just know when you get to other states you will not only become their superstar, you will become their role model.
Talented
Wonderful Oyagbija The Unique Cartoonist Wonderful Oyagbija Oluwadamilare is a cartoonist and an award-winning artist. He resides in Mushin area of Lagos and he is the CEO of Zamani Creations. Wonderful creates amazing body Arts, cartoons, storyboard, and illustrations for animation projects
You are a cartoonist and portrait artist. What led to your fascination with art? What led to my fascination with art was my education. When I was in primary school, I discovered that my type of art made people happy and so I decided to create more happiness.
my knowledge. I am currently training two young men at Mushin.
Where do you see your career in the next five years? In the next five years, I see my career as an artist becoming one of the major sources of happiness for Nigerians and the world. I also hope to become What inspires your work? one of the youngest CEOs from God is what actually inspires my Mushin, Lagos. work. This is why I was able to create something different from A s y o u k n o w , w e a r e a everyone else, "Grace na Kokó magazine dedicated to sharing the bests of Lagos. Can you the talent na jara". share with us your Lagos What has been your biggest experience? What do you love achievement through your about Lagos? I love the hustling spirit of every talent? My biggest achievement is Lagosian, and the fact that we firstly my award plaque as the maximise every opportunity. most talented artist; Croney One of the reasons why a lot of Network on Facebook in 2018. people come down from other Secondly, the fact that I am states to Lagos is because we currently being able to transfer are the best state in Nigeria. www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 19
Talented
The Amazing Body Painter Prince PreyĂŠ Promise Edolor is a Deltan, an Ijaw man who resides in Lagos. He is a body painting expert. Preye is involved in other creative works including wearable art, makeup, and avant-garde. www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 20
Talented
PREYE CHATS WITH EKO CITY You are an expert at body painting. How long have you been doing this? My first time painting on the human body was in February 2017. Although I have been practicing as a Makeup artist since May 2016. You make different creative designs. What usually inspires your work? Different things inspire me at different times. Shapes, colours, my current mood, sometimes, I am inspired by culture history or the body of the model I'm working with. My best jobs are, however, always inspired by the story of the person I'm painting on. Who they are, what they do, and what they have to say to the world. Mostly, as an artist, I'm inspired by human figures rather than landscapes, animals, or objects. What message do you intend to pass with your work? I love the human body and the human experience, in every shape, complexion. Thus, my work seeks to speak of beauty and character. There's beauty in everyone and aesthetics in everything. Where do you see your career in the next five years? I would love to tour and exhibit my works all around the world. In the next five years, my work won't be limited to any country or continent. As you know, we are a magazine dedicated to sharing the bests of Lagos. Can you share with us your Lagos experience? What do you love about Lagos? At the start of my career, I wanted to move to Lagos which I finally succeeded in doing. I have been living in Lagos since April 2017. What I love the most about the city is how it is home to every class, ethnicity, religion, amongst others.
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Golden Jubilee Celebration
Spotlight The best way to become a master is to learn from the best. In this chapter, we put the spotlight on leading businesses and CEOs in the world, sharing their stories, revealing their business strategies and many more.
BLENCO
A Retail Giant in Lagos State This edition, we had a chat with the CEO of Blenco supermarket, Mr Blessing Aghedo. During the interview, Mr Aghedo revealed how his business started, and why he has decided to open a third branch on the island axis in Lagos.
Spotlight
Mr Blessing Aghedo Chats with Eko City Blenco is one of the most successful retail companies in Nigeria. Could you share with us your entrepreneurial journey?
to start my own business.
year, I continued the business until I was able to establish the When I rented a shop, I realized I Blenco of today. didn't have enough to stock the shop. After trying to get some capital and failed, I decided I Despite Blenco having two was going to give up the shop retail branches on the Lagos It all started when I was at a very and buy an Okada instead. Island axis, the organization young age. I had to drop out, of However, on my way to meet the has decided to open a third school due to financial reasons. Okada agent, I saw a woman branch at Ilasan. What is the When I dropped out I came selling toothbrushes, and a strategy behind this down to Lagos to serve Mr buyer picked one and paid the Sunday, the co-owner of Ebeano woman twenty naira. The cost investment? s u p e r m a r k e t . I s e r v e d M r price of the toothbrush from the Sunday for six years. wholesalers was like six naira The essence of Blenco's new then, I quickly calculated how much the woman makes as profit from each brush and that was like 14% profit. I was amazed, so I decided to venture After the service, I came back to into the toothbrush business. Lagos with the money intending After being able to raise one hundred and five thousand in a During my time of service, I was defrauded, consequently, my boss gave me a settlement of eighty thousand naira. This was less of what I was entitled to.
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outlet is to dominate the areas in Lagos and become a household name in the country. It is also to create a one-stop-shop for the convenience of our customers and create a fusion of African village setting in a section of our store.
Spotlight
“I came to Lagos to serve Mr Sunday, the co-owner of Ebeano Supermarket.�
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Spotlight
More exclusive on Blenco… During the chat, Mr Blessing took Eko city's team on a tour in its new outlet. The new branch, located at Ilasan Bus-stop. behind World Oil and was open to the public on 15th of S e p t e m b e r, 2 0 2 0 . T h e superstore features different sections for customers to shop. The sections range from book section to food section, fashion segment, gift section, and many more. The book section of the supermarket has both fictional and non-fictional books for entrepreneurs, book lovers, and students to shop. The fashion section have designer and quality bags, shoes, wristwatches, unisex clothing and many more. At the food
section, there are provisions from many brands, drinks, amongst others. Aside from the regular provisions in a supermarket, Blenco has a unique traditional market setting called “Village Market” where shoppers can buy yam, pepper, tomatoes, vegetables, and other household food items. Mr Blessing Aghedo revealed that the village market setting was a part of Blenco's strategy to set itself apart from other supermarkets. He further commented that it was also a way to remind shoppers of their traditional market while they shop in a world-class setting. Also available in the supermarket is another food section where shoppers can www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 26
get a variety of snacks such as popcorn, meat pie, and assorted foods. The supermarket also partnered with other organisations such as pharmacies, bakery and electronic brands to ensure shoppers get drugs and other essential items they might need. When the outlet was opened to the public on September 15th, the opening was witnessed by a host of dignitaries which included a Honorable from Delta state, Chukky Dandy. Also at the opening were the managers of the other branches, friends, and staff of the company, who reiterated B l e n c o 's c o m m i t m e n t t o serving Lagosians.
Spotlight
“The essence of Blenco's new outlet is to dominate the areas in Lagos and become a household name in the country.�
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MY EKO EXPERIENCE
My Eko Experience
Ajibogun Oladayo “The light from the streets of Lagos is magical.”
Dolapo
M
y name is Ajibogun
Oladayo Dolapo. I am a
photographer, model,
and student. I have been in Lagos for over twenty-two years. I love many things about Lagos, however, Lagos nightlife is the major highlight for me. The sound of moving vehicles from all angles, the street food, and the light from the streets of Lagos is magical. Also, the people of Lagos are fun to be with, as there are a lot of people with different vibes.
The business nature of Lagos is also a very important factor that makes Lagos 'Lagos'. Everyone is a hustler and that is fun on its own. I would love to see less traffic on Lagos roads.
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My Eko Experience
“Virtually everything in Lagos is a beauty to behold.”
behold and many events to look out for. What I love about Lagos is the sceneries. You can't take certain things away from Lagos; its Yellow bus, beach, structures, tourist centres, Friday nights, events, (especially at nights), sports, virtually everything in Lagos is a beauty to behold.
Otu Emmanuel Eville I
am a creative personnel, actor, creative director, model, voice-over artist, and a social media manager. I have been in Lagos all my life. I was born in the heart of Lagos - Surulere. Although I have travelled out of Lagos few times to about six states and to neighboring countries as well, Lagos has been my abode for more than two decades.
The changes I would love to see in Lagos are a lot. First off, the roads; the government needs to do better in their road networks and structure. Another thing is the security. The harassments received from the ones who are obliged to serve and protect her people are doing the contrary. The government need to work on that. Lastly, housing and accommodation rates should be restructured. In the previous times, great homes were built with space and decent rates. However, nowadays, developers will reduce room space into unrealistic structures and inflate the rates at a ridiculous price. Despite all these changes that need to take place, Lagos is still a centre of excellence.
Drama can never be taken away from Lagos and its people. There is just too much scenery to www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 31
My Eko Experience
Olaseni Eze Okoroafor I
am a civil servant and I work with Lagos State Pension Commission. I have been in Lagos for thirty-four years. I love Lagos because it is a city where you can achieve your dreams. Lagos is a mega city, it is a home of opportunities with no limitations. I desire to see a more beautiful Lagos and a city free of traffic.
“Lagos is a mega city, it is a home of opportunities with no limitations.” www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 32
My Eko Experience
Olatomide Fadipe I
'm Olatomide Fadipe from Ilesa, Osun State.
I am a commercial model, influencer, and
personal fitness trainer in Nigeria. I create
inspiring fashion and fitness content and share stories that encourage ambitious men to look their best and feel more confident. I have been in Lagos for three years. No doubts, Lagos is where things are happening in Nigeria. In industries like fashion, music, arts, entertainment, clubs, beach, businesses, entrepreneurship, you get the best in Lagos, Nigeria. I'm an Art Lover, and I particularly love to visit the prestigious Nike Art Gallery in Lagos. I love the Lagos vibe and the Lagosians; their activeness and passion for business and entrepreneurship are second to none. I dream of a less-stressful Lagos. I dream of a mega-city with a world-class transportation network that
“Lagos is where things are happening in Nigeria.”
gets residents and visitors to their destinations with ease. I dream of a Lagos with improved housing solutions to the surging population of its residents. A city with happy, healthy, and lawabiding residents.
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My Eko Experience
M
y name is Nanayat Adeboh. I am a disc jockey, also known as DJ. I have been in Lagos practically all my life, but I will cap it down to twenty years. I love the night life in Lagos because it is the best we have anywhere in Nigeria. Always full of fun and enjoyments. The hustle and bustle of Lagos at night can't be compared to anywhere else in the world. I will like to see more of neat places in Lagos.
“The hustle and bustle of Lagos at night can't be compared to anywhere else in the world.�
DJ NANA
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Cover Girl
Meet
Oluwajare Ijalana ConďŹ dence and eloquence in a young body
Cover Girl
It is not a regular occurrence for a 5-year-old Nigerian girl to be recognised globally for her s t r i k i n g b e a u t y, h o w e v e r, Oluwajare Ijalana broke that jinx when the world stopped to admire her captivating innocence. Oluwajare Ijalana is a child model of international acclaim who was dubbed 'The World's Most Beautiful Girl' by Yahoo
Lifestyle in 2018 after a very reputable agencies, many of alluring picture of her went viral whom have described images online. This earned her global o f h e r a s b o l d , a l l u r i n g , fame as the first ever black and p r o f e s s i o n a l , n a t u r a l , African child to win that coveted irresistible, among many others. title at a very young age of five. Jare is a confident and eloquent young girl with natural charisma Since gaining that recognition, Oluwajare (fondly called Jare) in front of the camera that has carved her name and endears many to her, pleasantly adorable face in the children surprising art directors who are fashion industry where she has impressed by the confidence garnered the attention of and professionalism of such a young child. www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 36
Cover Girl
Jare has modelled for several local and international brands, some of which include: a campaign for global luxury couture brand Princess Ford, Heiress Couture, Beauty Shop U SA , M o m m a d e U K , A N TA Sports Us, Young Soles UK, Panda London, Petit Tribe UK, Jumia Nigeria, Kidscube and others. Jare's eortless innocence, panache, and grace have caught the attention of foreign media outlets like BBC, Daily Mail UK, RTV Germany, BBC Africa, Sky News, Elle Paris, The Shade Room, and locallyacclaimed media outlets like La Mode, This Day Newspaper, among others.
She is a smart, curious, cheerful, and fun-loving 6-year-old who enjoys modelling and can be found expressing herself in ballet dancing, acting, and the piano when she is not in front of the camera. Jare's exceptional beauty and contribution to kids' fashion has earned her international awards like the African Child Fashion Personality by the Child Summit and Awards in Ghana 2019. Her work also extends to advocacy, where she stands as a goodwill ambassador for Peaceful Mind Foundation, a globally reputable mental health advocacy platform.
Jare loves modelling, the colour purple, and her family. She would like to be a doctor some day and hopes to make valuable contributions to her peers across Africa through her work as a model, helping them embrace their natural beauty, maximise their potential, and be all that they want to be. Jare has also featured in international runway, gracing the Minimode Global Kids Fashion Show and House of Ikon during the London Fashion Week 2020.
Voices
The Voice of Adeniyi Adedokun @n.i.y.i
The Mental Health
Another Abandoned Global Issue A healthy state of mind is the greatest form of energy a human can attain. It controls the overall well-being of the human body, making you feel invincible. But what happens when the mental health is in jeopardy? www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 38
Voices
G
rowing up, I was thought to do everything possible to stay healthy: wash my hands, bath twice daily, brush my teeth, and comb my hair. I remember a class assignment in elementary school solely based on bathing twice daily and brushing at night. We offered subjects like Physical Health Education (P.H.E) and Health Education – with no traces of the mental health in the curriculum. Looking back at this, I see how society only validates you based on physical appearance, and how you really feel your psychological. In most African homes, mental health is literally non-existent, and this ignorance is passed down from generation to generation like a cultural artifact, filling the earth up with happy faces and broken souls. This effect has disrupted the growth of the economy as a whole, and we don't even know it because it has been rejected into oblivion. Aside from being one of the most ignored health issues, mental health can be described as a state of emotional and psychological well-being. The mental health is linked to your mind; how you react to situations, social interactions, how quickly you process what you read, and how you let the world see you, amongst others. Mental health disorder occurs when there is a disruption in the
equilibrium of one's mental state, taking a toll on the physical and overall wellbeing. Some of the factors that leave mental health in a distorted form: 1. Parental Upbringing: Here lies the foundation for your mental stability. Words and actions made by your parents can make and mar you – this has the most long-lasting and severe effect on the quality of your mental stability. 2. Society: People tend to hate whatever they deem different or can't understand. If you look, speak, or love differently from the set society standard, you're going to face a lot of verbal and physical abuse that leaves your mental health in disequilibrium. 3. Occupation: Your work environment also disrupts your mental peace. The hours of work, your interaction with your coworkers, and your competence at work are also determining factors. 4. Financial constraints: The inability to afford your basic needs and live as comfortable as you'd love to puts a heavy weight on your mind. 5. Bereavement: Losing something or someone you love after hopes that they were www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 39
going to be around for a longer time can take a toll on your mental health. Common mental health disorders When the quality of your mental health is at risk, your mind comes up with a defense mechanism that helps you adjust to these changes, leaving you in a condition that prevents a re-occurrence of the initial issue. Below are some of the commonest mental health disorders: 1. Anxiety Anxiety is associated with the intense feeling of fear and worry about things that are yet to come. It may come in different forms like stepping out of your room, standing in front of a crowd, or speaking in public. People with anxiety are likely to experience physical symptoms, which may include restlessness, excessive sweating, shaky hands, and a faster heartbeat. Most times, these symptoms might not need a trigger to show up. 2. Depression This is the most common of all mental health disorders, usually common in young teenagers and adults. Depression is the absence of the ability to control one's thoughts, leaving the mind in a state of continuous wander. This mental health disorder is
Voices
open-minded. Drugs such as antipsychotics and antidepressants are two of the most commonly prescribed medication.
usually associated with insomnia or extremely long hours of sleep. Post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) PTSD only occurs after a personal experience of a traumatic event. The constant fear that a traumatic event might occur again coupled with their inability to control this situation, leaves such persons in aconstant state of panic.
knowing that you need all the help you can get is the second. Treating mental disorder comes in different forms:
3.
4. Bipolar disorder Bipolar disorder is the rapid change in a person's mood, energy, and aura. Maintaining a balance is usually difficult for people living with bipolar disorder, and their energy fails them when they need it the most. This is the most unstable form of mental health. Are there treatments for mental health disorders? Luckily for us, there are several ways to contain this health issue. Accepting that you're going through a tough time is usually the first step and
1. Psychotherapy The need for a therapist can never be overemphasized; we all need somebody to lean on. Talking to an experienced therapist creates a safe space and a feeling of confidentiality. P s y c h i a t r i s t s , psychotherapists, and psychologists are a few experts you can rely on. These experts dig deep into the roots of your mental illness and help you reconstruct. They also provide structured life choices to keep you in check and help ease your healing process. 2. Medications There are several drugs that help keep the mind stable for as long as possible. They aren't over the counter drugs and are only prescribed for special patients. They do not particularly cure mental illness, but they put the body in a position to be positive and www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 40
3. Self-care This is usually the most difficult part of curing mental illness. Trying to uplift your mind and get things done yourself after a long while is tough but not impossible. The best way to help you out is giving you time to process, knowing that the little efforts matter and celebrating them are also key; to a better mental state. With the help of family, friends, and your psychotherapist, taking care of you will be easier. Always bear in mind that you're not alone. Make important changes in your lifestyle; reduce alcohol intake, exercise, listen to inspirational music, and disconnect from things that bring your spirit down. Mental illness isn't the easiest health issue to curb, but reducing its effects and the lives it claims yearly is possible. It all starts with how you treat people and what you say to them
“Be kind: People face challenges that threaten their inner peace daily. It is important to avoid contributing to these challenges. The world needs more kind people around.”
Owanbe Trend
Nigerians are one of the most stylish people in the world. From designers creativity with African print to the way Africans rock it, in this chapter, Ekocity brings you exclusive fashion styles of Lagosians and more.
Name: Okhueliegbe Margaret
Name: Omobolanle Disu Event: The Olukolu Wedding
Name: Kalu Okoro Event: Olukolu Wedding
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Owanbe Trendz
Name: Maryjane Okoli Event: The KL Wedding www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 43
Owanbe Trendz
Name: Olayemi Olaniran Event: Patootie Wedding
Name: Seun Akinyera Event: The Olukolu Wed
Name: Dolapo Event: Olukolu Wedding
Name: Oyinkansola Ayegbe Event: The Olukolu Wed
Name: Blessing Oguamanam Event: Juilliard Academy graduation
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Owanbe Trendz
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Owanbe Trendz
Name: Emmanuel Onigbo Event: Thanksgiving of Mike & Sarah
Name: Olatunji Olanrewanju Event: Kufre Wed Buchi
Name: Adetola Adewuyi Event: The Olukolu Wedding www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 46
Art & Culture For the first time in the history of Africa and its diaspora, Ooni of Ilè - Ifé, Oba Adeyeye Babatunde Ogunwusi, and his council of elders decided to confer the title of Iyalode of Osun State on an AfroBrazilian woman, Nilsia Lourdes dos Santos. Thus, Eko City magazine spoke to the Iyalode on Nigerian tourism, its culture and preservation. Read on for the exclusive.
Iyalode Osun Ifé, Nilsa Lourdes dos Santos
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Art & Culture
You are the Iyalode of Osun. Could you elaborate on the role of Iyalode in Yoruba land, particularly in Osun state? The Iyalode institution synthesizes the role of women in governance and activism in nation-building among the Yorùbá. Iyalode, as female monarchs, represents the concerns of children who are often at the bottom of most societies. Feminism is the scientific term for the study of concerns with women. In all cultures around the world, some women have managed to achieve prominence as a result of their resilience and dedication to break free from their maledominated contemporaries. Among the Yorùbá, some of the most notable women were Mrs. Efunroye Tinubu – Iyalode of Egba, Moremi Ajasoro – Iyalode of Ilè Ifé, and Efunsetan Aniwura – Iyalode of Ibadan. Historically, a highly respected monarch has conferred this title on prominent women in society. What is your assessment of the tourism industry in Nigeria? With regard to the tourism industry, I think that Nigeria has incredible potentials, but it's very little explored. It would be very interesting for government officials to look more closely, as there is an infinite possibility of gain from international and domestic tourism. Although many cities still don't have a hotel structure for that. However, it is necessary to facilitate the visa for entering the country, which is still very difficult to obtain, and also greater health surveillance to combat malaria, which is a major factor for the safety of tourists. Another thing I noticed is that most establishments do not accept debit cards for commercial transactions, this would make the tourist's life much easier because the use of a credit card implies exorbitant exchange rates. It would be interesting for the Ministry of Tourism to have a public policy secretariat with this view.
“Culture is the soul of a people anywhere on planet earth.”
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Culture is essential in retaining a society's identity. What would you recommend as the best way to retain Nigeria's culture? I am an anthropologist, so to deny a culture would be like committing a crime for me. Culture is the soul of a people anywhere on planet earth. It is the culture that sustains the continuity of the wisdom of a people and also gives us the notion of belonging, in which the notion of person is inserted. I understand that in a tradition, it doesn't move; it just conserves values. Osun state has many traditions and events that are unique to its city. Could you elaborate on some of these traditions and their significance in the world today? For the Yorùbá people, Osun is an extremely important and respected deity, not only in Nigeria, but also in the diaspora. We owe her life, she is the provider of motherhood in the name of Olodumarè. She is the Orisa of beauty, wealth, and gold. She is the representation of the feminine within the
pantheon of 401 deities, without undoing the others. Osun is a mother! Therefore, we must revere all devotion to her, for those who belong to the traditional religion. Osun State hosts big festivals dedicated to it every year. Particularly in the city of Ilè Ifé, it happens in the month of July in a very intense way in terms of rituals, and in the city of Osogbo, which is the best known in the diaspora, it happens in the month of August, which draws thousands of tourists from all over the world. The world may be incredibly technological, but motherhood has been happening since time in the same way. It's good to think about it! The fact is that people can have the belief they want, they are free to do so, but it is also up to us to remember that God does not ask us for an opinion to carry out his work. The world is becoming fastpaced due to technological advancement. What would you recommend as the most important means to ensure millennials are fluent in their mother tongue? The world is incredibly technological, there is no doubt
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about it. The speed with which things are happening is also admirable. However, we must be careful that we do not lose our roots and our moral values. I think it is very important to be aware of concepts, precepts, and secrets. Another thing that is very important is the well-structured family unit so that it can give young people the structure they need for the formation of their character, without which the individual is left without content. October 1st is usually a free day for many people in Nigeria. For Lagosians looking to travel to Osun State for a bit of excitement, which of Osun State's landmarks would you recommend for them to visit? October 1 is Nigeria's i n d e p e n d e n c e d a y, a v e r y important day for the Nigerian people which must be remembered with the utmost patriotism because people who fought for independence wanted to have and see the people free from the exploitation, persecution and perversity of their executioner. As for spending the day, I suggest people should visit the Oduduwa Palace and its Museum to review the history and revel in a wealth of details.
“Many event planners and individuals are scared of committing their entire show or parties to a female DJ.” Sandra Uduimoh, popularly called…
Celebrity Chapter
industry, what challenge would you say you face? I think the major challenge I face being in a male dominated industry is getting people to believe in you. Since most DJs are assumed to be male, many event planners, and individuals are scared of committing their entire show or parties to a female DJ. This is what I have been trying to change in the industry. Where do you see your career in the next five years?
What do you love the most
about your work?
What inspired you to become a DJ? What inspired me to become a DJ was basically my love and passion for music and wanting to share it among others. Mixing keeps me happy and reminds me of the good times. I get so excited when I either find an old classic or get to listen to a really great new song, and I also wanted to be different from the norms, I love being different and standing out from the crowd.
what I love the most about my work is making people happy and dance, it gladdens my soul when people can relate to the songs I play, when they relate to every switch I make, every stop, every pause, every play and them getting to flow with the songs lyrics by lyrics, being able to uplift people's mood, I think that's the greatest joy of been a DJ. As a woman in a male dominated
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In the next five years I want to have gained experience in producing, produce a lot of hit songs with great artists, gain the highest level of DJing skill and probably be one of the best DJs/producer in Africa.
Eko Tour
HAVE FUN AT EKO'S ROYAL BEACH: ELEGUSHI Lagos is a beautiful city with many places to explore. In this chapter, we bring you all the hacks, inside gist, and details of a place we have discovered for you to visit.
Eko Tour
One of the beauties of Lagos is Owned by the Lekki royal clothes, and a parking lot for the variety of exotic places family, and located along Lekki those who come with a ride. visitors and residents can visit. expressway at Ikate, it is one of Thus, if you are looking for an the beautiful beaches in Lagos. Going to the beach requires a environment where you can T h e c o a s t l i n e f e a t u r e s a gate fee of one thousand naira. hang-out for meditation, revel n i g h t c l u b f o r a f t e r - d a w n It's best to go with cash, as the in the beauty of Lagos, spend hangout, restaurants where managers in charge are yet to quality time with your loved local and international cuisines inculcate online transactions. ones, go bird-watching, have are served, sections where Wearing beach shorts and shirt endless fun amongst others, m a n y h e a r t - p u m p i n g f u n or any cool beach collections in we recommend the Elegushi machines can be explored, y o u r w a r d r o b e i s g r e a t . beach.
restrooms for a quick change of However, because of the sun www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 53
Eko Tour
which sometimes makes the dunes hot, you should also wear a sandal or flip-flop. You can also consider taking a hat, sunglasses, or sunscreen to protect your skin from the sun. When you are on your best outfit armed with your essentials, you should wear your best smile in preparation for a fun day. At the Beach, you can enjoy a hero-racing horse ride, join the occasional fun game of paintball, ride mini Ferris wheel amongst others. You can also meet and socialize with new people. The beach entertains close to forty thousand guests every week. Thus, if you are an extrovert looking to make more friends, you would want to visit during the weekend. However, because of the variety of people, there are sometimes pickpockets. Consequently, it is important to keep a close eye on the valuables you are with. If you are not looking to make friends, rather spend some alone time, weekdays are the best period. Then, you can take a long walk
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Eko Tour
along the coastline, watch the birds ap their wings, or read your favourite book. Many events are usually hosted on the beach. One of them is the Copa Lagos. This is a world-famous beach soccer tournament that features the best teams from all continents. Asides from the tournaments, many celebrities host special shows and live performances at the seashore. Consequently, there is no limit to the fun you can have. When you visit the beach, give us a bit of gist, and share with us your favourite pictures.
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Eko Event
In line with our commitment to bring you the best of Lagos, Eko City Magazine brings you updates on Lagos events.
Bolanle Ramat &
Oluwaseun Jeremiah th
The city of Lagos lit up on the 19 of September, 2020 as the families of Olukolu and Marcathy celebrated the matrimony of their children, Bolanle Ramat and Oluwaseun Jeremiah. Bolanle Ramat, is the daughter of the former commissioner of police of Oyo state, CP Shina T. Olukolu. Throughout the event, she was glammed up with cheer as she celebrated with her heartthrob. www.ekocitymagazine.com.ng | 56
Eko Event A royal wedding, the wedding event was graced by Royal fathers, top dignitaries, and celebrities in the country.
Ademola Elegushi, HRM, Oba Hafeez Olakunle Badiru, Elejigbo of Langbasa, His Royal Majesty Oba Tijani Adetunji A The royal fathers who graced the k i n l o y e , t h e O j o m u o f event include the Oba Elegushi Ajiranland of Eti-Osa of Ikate Kingdom, Dr Saheed
Other dignitaries at the ceremony were the former member of the National assembly representing Eti-Osa prince Jide Akinloye, Eti-Osa Local government chairman, Hon Saheed Bankole, The MD CEO Sabitex Hotels Limited,
Prince Salisu Elegushi, Aare Bashir Fakorode, the commissioner for home affairs, Mr Anofiu Elegushi, former EtiOsa East LCDA chairman, Issah Imam and a host of others. The father of the bride, Mr Shina Olukolu, revealed to Eko city magazine that the wedding has been delayed for quite a while due to the COVID-19 pandemic. However, they are ecstatic to be able to celebrate with the couple while they adhere to the COVID-19 safety rules. Golden bouquet, elegant wears, eyes filled with love, smiles that brighten the world, music that merry the heart, Bolanle had a wedding of every little girl's dream.
Sport is a subject that connects people all around the world irrespective of race, ethnicity, gender or religion. Because we know this is probably one of your passionate subjects too, Eko City brings you updates on sporting activities in Lagos and beyond.
Lobi Stars FC Preparation for 2020/2021 Nigeria Premier League Season
T
his edition, we had a chat with Mr Mike Idoko, the general manager of Lobi Stars Football Club. The club, formerly known as Lobi Bank, BBL Hawks, and Hawks, is a football club based in Makurdi, Benue. The club plays in the Nigerian Professional Football League. The Stars' home is the fifteen-seat Aper Aku Stadium. During the chat, Mr Idoko revealed how the club is preparing for the forthcoming 2020/2021 Nigeria premier league season. He states: “preparations are ongoing for the resumption of the league and we are putting up
the structure to ensure that Lobi stars have a very successful season. The coaches are in high spirits and the staff and players are not leaving anything to chance this season. The government of Benue state under his Excellency, Samuel Ortom, is interested in the welfare of Lobi stars and as such is supporting us all the way.” He further conveyed how the club is tackling the effect of COVID-19 in regards to sport, stating, "Well, like you know, the pandemic has affected every facet of public life and soccer is not immune to it. Football around the world came to halt and this has come along its attendant decline in the soccer business. Back on the local
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Sport
continental football. He states: “Many Lobi supporters say this as a great injustice but we accept the soccer body's decision and hope for a more fruitful season this time around.”
Mr. Mike Idoko general manager of Lobi Stars scene, government regulations and social distancing have ensured that everybody maintains the highest level of safety. Soccer is a contact sport. This led to a halt in all footballing activities in Nigeria. With the partial lift of the lockdown, we have mobilized our players and staff back to the field.” On the FC performance and reports of a switch of the technical formation in the club, Mr Idoko communicated that: “We did not do badly in the last season. Although we will not be seeking continental glory this season, our technical staffs are focused on delivering the goods. I have confidence in the Coach, Gbenga Ogunbote. He is an experienced coach.
On the league's suspension in March, Mr Mike revealed that the league organizing body and most clubs decided to vote for the adoption of the “Point per game” model to determine the final league standing for 2019-2020 Nigeria Professional Football League season. Reiterating that after the government ruled out the return of competitive sports amidst the ongoing global pandemic, Lobi Stars where third on the league before the season was suspended back in March. However, the adoption of points per game mode to decide the final standing caused the club to drop to the fourth position leading to the club missing out of
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H e, h o w e v e r, r e v e a l e d h i s expectations from the forthcoming season in regards to officiating and fans conduct during league matches. Expressing great optimism, Mr Idoko stated: “officiating in Nigerian premier league has improved tremendously. We hope the match officials continue in this line as this is also an antidote to crowd or fans’ restiveness. Once fans feel cheated by a referee, this often leads to a crisis but in recent times, this has become a thing of the past.” The forthcoming season will be interesting and competitive with the level of preparations coupled with the ambitions teams have for the coming season. Generally, we are looking forward to the most exciting times ahead.
“We are looking forward to the most exciting times ahead.”
Eko Extra
FACTS ABOUT
See some cool facts about Lagos we love‌
1. 2.
Lagos state hosts the tallest building in West Africa. The building, named NECOM house and towers, is about 160 metres above the city. Lagos has the longest bridge in Africa. Built by Julius Berger Nigeria Plc, it is popularly called the Third Mainland Bridge. It connects Lagos Island to the mainland, measuring 11.8 km.
3.
Lagos handles majority of Nigeria's imports. The sea port located in the Southwest beach line of Nigeria processes 80% of goods in Nigeria.
Eko Extra
NIGERIAN
Proverb
Nigeria has one of the most though ul and wise sayings. Learn, meditate, and revel in these wise words: " Give me a push from my back does not mean give me a hunchback.�