KujeVoice Magazine 2

amazing benefits of cashew

‘Farming Is The Answer To Youth Joblessness’

...empowering people!

the n gree e issu #300 ONLY

W O M A N ’S

W OR L D :

Agbo gir l Stylishl s: y running K streets uje

encounter:

Tsokwa: Man Behind Cocoa Farming in Kuje ...And How Government Can Maximise On Our Seven-Point Agenda To Make Kuje The Biggest Food Producer In Nigeria Introducing...

JAM MOON Waters & Confectionaries (See Page 1)

Kuje’s food production today triples other councils – AGRIC COUNCILLOR

Content

Send all reactions to: @KujeVoice Abuja Send sms/whatsapp chat: 0809 847 6250

www.kujevoiceabuja.blogspot.com/

REGULARS>>> 05 Viewpoint: Our discovery

on why ATM is unable to dispense enough cash in Kuje, especially at weekends.

11 Living: Steps to looking your best on your birthday

02 ENCOUNTER: Man Behind Cocoa Farming in Kuje Area Council WOMAN’S WORLD: A Peek into Agbo girls’ marketing style of using modern fashion to sell local herbal drink

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06 EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW: Hon. Ibrahim Samo says Kuje is still the food basket of FCT.

12 Council Diary: Activities of Kuje Area Council in the 1st Quarter of 2017

Lighter mood: I would like to impact on everybody around me positively - Alhaji Nasiru

Agronews: Amazing health benefits of 22 Cashew and the life cycle of Cocoa tree

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June - August 2017

Encounter

Interview by Isaac Ballie & Patrick Emoukhare

P

lease can you introduce yourself and still let us know when you came to Abuja?

I came to Abuja in 2001 from Maiduguri in Borno state. I got an appointment with the Federal Civil Service Commission as a Principal Executive Officer, not putting my mind in the oil and gas sector, thereby giving my own contributions to the development of the country through the civil service. I was posted to the Ministry of Interior, into the Department of National Civic Registration and I was in charge of the National Identity Card.

After 3 years of service there, I was again posted to the main headquarters at the Ministry of Interior in Area 1 to work in the Servicom unit in-charge of service delivery of the entire ministry. In 2010, I was posted to the office of Head of Service of the Federation and that’s where I have been up till this moment.

What were you doing before you ventured into farming?

Naturally, I was born into a farming family, I am from Taraba state and we are mainly farmers. My dad is a businessman and also a farmer. During the holidays, we always accompanied him to the farm to see how he does his farming activities and that was how I also developed the interest in farming. So when I relocated to Abuja, there was a seminar I participated which was a mental empowerment training. That seminar helped in making me go into farming which I still do today.

There are so many obstacles when it comes to agricultural farm activities, what are the obstacles as regards to farming here?

Obstacles, yes! Just like any other small scale farmer, there is plenty of it. What I do here mostly is that I culture and develop seedlings for would-be farmers, those with interest always come to see what I do. What I do here could serve as

Tsokwa: Man behind cocoa farming in Kuje Area Council Cocoa is as important as oil to the Nigerian economy. It is the leading agricultural export of Nigeria (from the South-West majorly) and the country is currently the world’s fourth largest producer, after Cote d’ Ivoire, Indonesia and Ghana, and the third largest exporter in Africa, after Cote d’ Ivoire and Ghana. The crop was a major foreign exchange earner for Nigeria in the 1950s through 1970s. Seven years ago, Cocoa production accounted for only 0.3% of agricultural GDP. The economic tree is not common to farmers in the Northern part of this country, so when KujeVoice Magazine found Mr. Emmanuel Tsokwa, who grows cocoa in his nursery farm in Kuje, we visited the farm to ascertain his achievement.

“I was so fascinated by it that I had to enquire on how I can get the seedlings to Abuja, that was when a colleague encouraged me to get the seedlings and one of the workshop organisers put me through on the processes”

Mr. Emmanuel Tsokwa, Kuje’s pioneer Cocoa farmer

an avenue where schools can come for excursion because what you find here cannot be found in some farms; like the fish pond, snail colonies, flowers that also serve as herbs and medicine to us.

Is it true that these cocoa are the same with the ones found in the South-West. And how did you come about such discovery?

Yes, we have cocoa farm in Kuje as you can see for yourselves. This is a cocoa garden developed since 2005.

It was through a workshop I attended in Calabar that I came across cocoa seedlings. I was so fascinated by it that I had to enquire on how I can get the seedlings to Abuja; a colleague encouraged me to get the seedlings and one of the workshop organisers put me through on the processes. I brought them back and decided to try and see if it’s going to work. I kept telling myself that if this project works well, it would be the first time cocoa production would be achieved in FCT and the north so that the world will know that this cash crop can be planted and grown in the north, starting with FCT and Kuje in particular.

Cont’d on Page 9

June - August 2017

Send all reactions to: KujeVoice Abuja Send sms/whatsapp chat: 0809 847 6250

Hello to you all,

I Isaac Ballie Founder/CEO 0803 642 3444

nternationally, Kuje is well-known today because it has the only prison in FCT, then the bomb blast recently.

But we can change that perception if we refocus our investment opportunities to agriculture, starting with our discovery of Cocoa farm in Kuje. A cocoa farm where seedlings are cultured and developed by Mr. Emmanuel Tsokwa, a farmer in our midst blazing the trail in the production of this cash crop of high international value.

His achievement has presented Kuje with an opportunity to lead other northern states in the cultivation of this exportable crop of economic importance.

We already have arable farm lands where vitually anything can grow relatively well and the assistance from Federal Government economic plan on agriculture is another reliable point of hope. This will be our source

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Editor’s note

of recognition in future if we are ready to take the bull by the horn. If we’ll keep discovering the potentials and exploring them, we ll be a case study for measuring success in agriculture.

Also in our social circle, we continue to bring the leading relaxation places around you, not in terms of beauty and class, but reviewed for the thousands of naira they get everyday from their services to customers, even as recession continue to bite harder in Nigeria.

Enjoy the articles on the amazing benefits of cashew, Agbo girls marketing styles and also see the young farmer who is encouraging youth in Kuje to embrace agriculture and farm activities as a profitable means of livelihood.

Kindly let us know what you think; we will like your comment, suggestion and observation to determine the contents of our subsequent editions.

– Publisher

For further enquiries, email us at: info.b.i.k.world@gmail.com

PHOTO OF THE MOMENT Designed and Published by:

B.I.K. WORLD

Block 434, Senior Staff Quarters, Behind Kuje Stadium, Kuje, Abuja - FCT. Registered office: H72, Sani Bello Street, Ungwan Sunday, Kaduna State.

Article sent to KujeVoice Magazine is subject to the magazine’s right to edit and comment editorially.

Vice Chairman, Kuje Area Council, Hon. Samuel T. Duda (right) inspecting people’s level of compliance to Kuje’s first Environmental Sanitation Exercise (ESE) on the last Saturday of March 2017

PHOTO: KAC

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June - August 2017

Have your say...

We want to hear from you on our Facebook, Twitter, Whatsapp and Instagram. You can also email us at info.b.i.k.world@gmail.com (Be sure to include your contact.)

You could win a branded KujeVoice T-shirt just for sharing our social media page.

Talking Drums

Cartoon By

Aizik (2017)

Who is behind KujeVoice?

Who is behind KujeVoice?

Abu Franky Publisher: KujeVoice is an independently-run quarterly community magazine by media professionals based in Kuje. It is a medium for providing information

on inspiring people, events, issues and places around us in Kuje.

We are not partisan, religious or tribalistic; just a community magazine promoting the activities of Kuje Area Council for the best of Kuje and its people.

First edition Importance or of KujeVoice inportance?

Magazine I am delighted with the last edition of your magazine, but I have not gotten my personal copy. Please, where can I get a copy? Elisha Musa Answer: You can get copies at the vendor’s stand at Kuje Secretariat junction by the market and Danlami Charger shop 5, by Tipper garage opposite Pegi Bus stop. KujeVoice Abuja

KujeVoice or whatever you call it. If this is your first publication, it is too early for typographical error. Importance or inportance? Editor should always edit properly before publication. Mohammed Jibril Answer: It is highly regretted but we’ll edit thoroughly in our subsequent editions. Thank you for your observation as it only appears on the online cover promo. We thank you again.

My message to Mr Chairman is to always know that he is a leader and we as his followers, are waiting for good news.

Umar Faruq KujeVoice; a welcomed development.

Abdulqadir Maigari

Do you have an opinion about a particular story or picture you’ve seen in KujeVoice magazine or on social media pages about us or Kuje area council? Then, feel free and have your say! We’ll love to hear your thoughts, you could even win a recharge card of any network of your choice.

June - August 2017

Have your say...

Not the real problem Why do you care about people’s ATM challenges? That’s not the real problem of the local government.

I will like to help if you really need news, because the local government cannot build banks. Hope to find out more news. Ibrahim Yusuf Sarki

Send all reactions to: www.facebook.com/KujeVoice Abuja

Viewpoint

Banking: When ATM is unable to dispense enough cash

T

By Isaac Ballie

he ATM centres in Kuje today are the most busiest places around. There is no moment you don’t see someone withdrawing cash, recharging phone lines or sending money at either FCMB, Skye or First bank ATM centres.

Answer: The The biggest challenge magazine is not facing people is the about the council inability of the machines itself. Our focus to dispense cash at some is on the people crucial times, especially in government, at weekends. The level business, etc. We of stress people face empower them at these ATM centres with POSITIVE nowadays cannot be information of value quantified, especially to their lives so Kuje – African Proverb when the machines no will be great. Thank longer dispenses cash. This you. KujeVoice development is beginning Abuja to cause serious concern as the people withdrawing cash at these centres end up with disappointments and inability to emergencies.

The experience people go through every weekend or at night is There should be more big banks frustrating and in Kuje as fcmb and first bank are nobody has any taking us for a ride. explanation for the inadequate Secondly, the new access road cash, even the along Ibn Mas’ud school and GSS bankers.

Kuje should be tarred to ease traffic movement into and from Kuje.

With all Thanks! Jimoh Ibrahim these activities, especially Answer: It is highly noted, Mr. withdrawal of Ibrahim. We are sending copies of cash, you don’t every edition as complimentary to see the money the council for the Chairman and his everywhere cabinet members. We’ll also deliver and yet it is this message verbally. alleged that

“Knowledge is like a garden; if it is not cultivated, it cannot be harvested.”

More banks and road construction

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more than 60 million naira is loaded and dispensed every weekend at just one of the banks in Kuje. According to our source, “From the close of work on Friday to about Sunday afternoon when the ATM is no longer dispensing cash, people in Kuje and environs must have withdrawn more than 60 million naira.” This is from just one of the 2 popular banks in Kuje.

He also clarify that such withdrawals are from people collecting salaries, making payments for one construction project or another or for goods and services.

So next time you are at any of the ATMs and it is not dispensing, try and understand the situation so you can make other arrangements while you are still in town before heading for Kuje. Also remember the fact that others must have collected some money before you and a bank cash officer is always around to load money when it is finished, because they get alerts as money finshes in any of the ATM, except all money allocated for that week is loaded and exhausted by some of us.

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June - August 2017

Exclusive Interview

Kuje’s food production today triples other councils – Hon. Ibrahim Samo

The slogan that Kuje is the food basket of the Federal Capital Territory is no longer a story.

Every market day, you see local farmers from different villages around Kuje thronging into the various markets with food stuffs like plantain, yam, guinea corn, maize, melon, tomatoes, beans, pepper, etc including livestock and poultry products. To give credence to this fact, KujeVoice Magazine met Hon. Ibrahim Samo, supervisory councillor on agriculture in which he revealed what the council has in stock for farmers in Kuje.

W

Interview by Isaac Ballie & Patrick Emoukhare hat are the job how to manage income and expenditure responsibilities of your in terms of the business of farming. So, office as the Council’s they will know where they are lacking representative on and acquire the knowledge they were not agriculture? having before. Right now, we are in the right direction. With the training so far, I am the councilor representing we have seen it clearly that there is going the agriculture sector; one of my to be a positive change within a short responsibilities is that I am fully time to come. representing the executive chairman in this department. And I am here Is Kuje Area Council still the food for a mandate and have to discharge basket of FCT? it accordingly to the directives of the Till tomorrow, Kuje is still the food council. So far, it has been so good and basket of FCT and the reason is not so well. The synergy between my office far-fetched because if you look at the and the heads of departments has been scenario on the productions we are moving in the right direction as we have having in Kuje Area Council today, been putting heads together to see how it triples the other area councils. For we can pilot the affairs for the good of instance, if you look at the production Kuje Area Council. of plantain, yam, beans and other crops, Is Federal government assisting you can see that it has increased and is Kuje Area Council in agriculture? now better than before. And that is giving us a sign that we are still in the right Just recently, we are made to direction. With this federal government understand that there is a focus by the policy that we are trying to key into, federal government to see agriculture we discovered that farmers in Kuje are as another major source of revenue. So, willing to produce more food products when we came in, we discovered that than ever before. most of the programme from the federal government level have come down to Sir, how are crops/livestock in the area councils’ level. And so far, we Kuje better than the ones found in have registered more than 35 cooperative the other area councils or states in societies for the programme. The purpose Nigeria? of this registration is to use agriculture as a business in “With this federal government which few of them that are policy that we are trying to going for rice farming, go through industrial course from key into, we discovered that an institute which is called Farm farmers in Kuje are willing to Business School. The training lasted for 4 days and it was all produce more food products about educating our farmers on

than ever before”

Hon. Alh. Ibrahim Samo Supervisory Councillor, Agriculture So far so good, we are trying to see how we can key into the present need of people in KAC, especially in the area of commercial farming of rice and soya beans which is also to compliment the programmes of the Federal Government; our people are so happy and desperate to follow in this action. Talking about livestock farming, some days ago a company came to the council with a focus to train our livestock farmers in terms of disease prevention on livestock farm produce and human health. And with the information gathered from them, some people, staff of the council and some other NGOs that were part of the training, showed immense appreciation in which the Honourable chairman further informed them that in Cont’d on Page 7

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Cont’d from Page 6

What are the basic steps the council is taking in controlling the near future, there will be a vaccine. marketing of farm produce from Kuje The vaccines for poultry are going to Area Council to other sales points be distributed free to all our farmers. outside Kuje?

And that gesture is to motivate and You see, with the federal government encourage more farmers to produce policy, we have decided to key into rice much better than before as it will also and soya beans farming because the serve as our dividend of democracy. buyers are already waiting for the farm As the ‘food basket of FCT’, do we produce and the larger you produce, have Nigerian major farmers with the buyers are there to buy them again. agro-investment in Kuje, and are They are coming even beyond FCT and they registered with the council? any other part of Nigeria to patronize Just as I have said earlier, we have over the products. It is not going to be for 30-40 big farmers that are registered consumption within the locality. Take with KAC and to mention just a few; soya beans for instance, our people we have Kashumu, Danmasani Cobelieve that it is just soya beans as long operative Society, Aiye Yedika, etc. as it is for production or processing These farmers are ready, but their of milk and local snack called ‘Awara’. only challenge now is the modern But with the new farm inputs which the technology now, we Council, in conjunction are moving ahead of with the Federal that level because we Government, has made are going to get a lot it mandatory upon of things from this itself to provide them particular product. in order to have larger And with the level we farm production. are going, there must Sir, how does the be external marketers council monitor coming into KAC to – Eugene F. Ware agriculture in general buy these commodities and the activities which will serve as of the big farmers, revenue for the council. especially on their marketing and Can you give us the names and sale of farm produce? locations of all major markets in We have some extension workers Kuje? And do you have plans to open in the agric department and across all more in future? the 10 political wards. They come for Yes, in Kuje metropolis, we have the meetings with the departments and also Forest market, which we know it is submit situation reports on a monthly now jam-packed and the government is basis on areas we are lagging behind to looking for ways to make it a yam and see how we can get good result. These fruits market by dividing it to operate extension workers also assist the farmers in separate sections. We also have a by giving them proper education in major market at Kwaku which has been order to avoid past mistakes and that is operating every 7 days and the council giving us positive results. is deriving tangible revenue from the What happens after harvest of market, all from farm produce. The crops, do you have Silo/Barns in farmers sell their farm products like the council for storage and future plantain, yam, beans, egusi, corn and consumption? other things. We also have another market at Gudun-Karya market which What the council is trying to do now is making provision to have a Cont’d on Page 8 demonstration farm, and the purpose of the farm is to have a storage facility that will help us store our grains, and seedlings so that better and qualitative seeds can be provided at any given time.

As you know, we just came on board about 10 months ago, and we met a lot of challenges which we are tackling accordingly and getting better result.

Despite the challenges, the council is still making effort to make sure we turn things around for the benefit of our farmers.

“The farmer works the soil, the agriculturist works the farmer.”

Exclusive Interview

Tips for a successful farming business

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By Mary Peabody verything about farming look difficult, but on a closer look, you will see that it is really not as one thinks. Though it will take a toll — not just on your body but your brain and sometimes your commitment as well. It takes a lot to get a successful farm business launched and when the results are not quite what you hoped, it can be a major blow to your dreams.

There are some lessons to be learned in starting a successful farm business. They are not easy titbits for you to follow but with concentration, you’ll achieve result: • Avoid the tendency to overdiversify your production In the early years, focus more on product quality and efficiency. Taking too many profitable products in mind can bring out mediocre results. Concentrate on excellence in one or two areas — then expand.

• Invest in post-harvest care It is a waste of time and money to produce high-quality products that can be mishandled. At the end of the day postharvest washing, packing, and storing will impact on the quality and flavour as much as the careful selection of seed and production practices.

• Limit your market channels Over-extending your market reach can yield bad results. If you are focusing your farm business on direct marketing then choose one or two channels that will compliment one another. Concentrate your efforts on knowing your costs of production.

• Listen to your customers The hardest thing for any business owner is to hear negative feedback. It’s the difficult customers that might tell you the truth, even if the way they deliver it is mean-spirited. So, even though it is hard, listen to the negative feedback and titbits that you can use to improve.

• Have a mechanization plan Even though you may not have the resources to buy every piece of equipment that you need, that should not stop you from having a plan in place. Keep a list of the equipment you need and prioritize the list.

The tricky part of farming is that you can do everything right and still not end up with good output. And that is why you need to plan carefully, proceed with caution and love what you do. https://newfarmerproject.wordpress.com/

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June - August 2017

Exclusive Interview

Hon. Chairman, Alh. Abdullahi D. Galadima in a farm recently to re-enforce Federal Government’s call for people to embrace sustainable agriculture in Kuje and all over Nigeria

Cont’d from Page 7 is another area the council is focussing its attention. And Rubochi market is another area too. All the markets are getting results based on farm produce which is the major thing found in them.

Is Kuje Area Council making any money from agriculture today? And what is the proceeds being used for?

One of the major areas the council is making its money is in agriculture because it has a lot of branches that generate revenue. But with the current situation in the country, the recession is affecting us and without the generation of revenue, our people will not enjoy the benefits of democracy. With other issues coming in from different angles, we are trying to put everything together which include the abattoir, which is also a source of revenue. There is another source of revenue which is the quarry.

Some people came recently to dig out natural resources; this is also done with a link to the agric department. We are really getting impact from this axis like good drinking water, grading of roads and other incentives that is in direct benefit of the farmer. All the revenue we get from these angles are also put back into other areas for the benefit of the farmer so it would be easier for them to transport their farm produce to the city. And that makes it a social contract – collecting revenue and returning it back to them because without the roads, the consumption need of people in the towns will suffer. With good roads and the farmers being able to bring their products to the city, prices of goods will come down because when there is higher supply, the price will be low. It is only when supply is low that you will find inflation everywhere.

And do you have any developmental proposal on agriculture you are

“The demonstration farm will be a place where previous year’s stock of all the good seeds from the crops like beans, yams, maize and other grains from the farmers will be kept” planning to introduce in Kuje Area Council?

The Demonstration Farm I talked about earlier is one of the major areas the council can generate funds, a very good amount of revenue. The demonstration farm will be a place where previous year’s stock of all the good seeds from crops like beans, yams, maize and other grains from the farmers will be kept. One can just go to the demonstration farm and get any of the products which will be treated against infections so that the seedlings one is buying there will have a 100% guarantee, compared to what we are doing now.

To the council, who is more important, the farmer or marketer when it comes to agriculture, business and development?

To us, the farmers are more important because production comes first before consumption. You have to produce first before a marketer can sell, despite the fact, they are important to each other but one must come before the other.

Is there any

collaboration in agriculture between Kuje and other area councils in FCT? Yes, there is. If you take a look at Kuje Area Council and other councils, there is always a boundary that joins them together. If you look at Gwagwalada, Bwari, AMAC it is the same connection.

We have a link among all area councils in FCT, and also most of these people in other area councils are benefiting from Kuje Area Council. Take for example AMAC, it will not be easy for you to identify where the farm lands are. And with the influx of people from AMAC, that are now coming to Kuje Area Council too. So, if we decide to block these roads and they don’t go to Nasarawa to buy, where will they get their food? We are very important to AMAC and other area councils on food production.

How do you see Kuje Area Council, as regards agriculture, in the next 20 years?

In fact, I appreciate your questions and it is very surprising. When we came on board, we saw that agric issues are not taken into consideration; it was a neglected area as people do not care or focus their attention on it with business in mind. And that is why we respect Mr. President in terms of bringing national interest back to farming business, it is a business that people can go into it and also succeed. As a Gbagyi man by tribe, farming is all I know, apart from Abaji, Gwagwalada and Kwali, I have not travelled to anywhere else, our people have been in this practice for centuries and yet all the effort is based on production and consumption. Now, age is catching up with most of the farmers because they are elderly. They never have the opportunity of using the new technology. The knowledge is not there to move it forward. You see, it is like someone giving you a million naira to start a business and you are not conversant with any idea of any particular business model.

Surely that business will fail.

Farm agricultural business and office like this in FCT and Kuje Area Council witness the busiest activities today, more than any other office in this area council.

We deal with cooperative societies of different kinds that are linked to farming Cont’d on Page 13

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Encounter

Cont’d from Page 2 This discovery is amazing, what will you say helped you in the development of these cash crops?

The farm is striving very well here as you can see, it is even producing.

If you go around the farm, you will discover some cocoa pods because it is the best season for growing them. If you need the seedlings, they are there for development. Rabbits are also helping me to nurse the seedlings as they come to get the seedlings from the trees and take to bury along the water side and it would start germinating. That shows that Kuje has the potential to develop cocoa farming to the fullest.

What are the basic crops found in your farm?

I mentioned snail, fish, citrus and Avocado pears. We also have guava, coconuts and sour-sop that is being propagated to help cure cancer patients.

We have other plants that help in solving ear, eye and other health challenges.

Is the government aware of what you are doing now and what really motivated you?

The federal government is not aware there is a breakthrough of cocoa produce in Kuje. I went into this project because of the call by Federal Government for all civil servants to embrace agriculture and that encouraged me to key into it. I believe with publicity like this that Kuje is thriving in Cocoa, the government will now be aware and come with whatever support there is to make it a success.

This will also enable the exposure of this cash crop for other development centres in the north.

What do you want the government to do for you now that you have started something new in Kuje?

All I need now from the government

One of the Fish ponds in the farm

Tsokwa: Man behind cocoa farming in Kuje Area Council

One of the growing Cocoa tree in the farm behind Forest Market in Kuje

Photos: Isaac Ballie

“There was a seminar I participated which was a mental empowerment training. That seminar helped in making me go into farming which I still do today� is a piece of land that I can use in developing seedlings. A land with production capacity that can compete with other producing states like Ondo, Oyo, Osun, etc. The secret of this crop is already out, it is just left for us to embrace and use it wisely.

Kindly advise our youth on the future; is there a way forward for

them in agriculture?

I will advise the youth to pick interest in farming because it is a silent gold mine that will open the gateway in helping them in future, at their retirement age. I am doing this as a pre-retirement plan so that in the next few years when I retire, I will have something I can fall back on and not rely on the government, because government cannot do everything for us.

We need to start something no matter how little, so that whenever government support comes, it will catapult it to the highest level. Let them key into agriculture as it will be of immense benefit to them in the future and it will also boost the economy of our country. As we all know now, cocoa farming has been pushed to the background and that is why it is my interest to revive such farming by introducing it to FCT and to Kuje in particular.

Some of the Plantain, Banana and Cocoa seedlings

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June - August 2017

Lifestyle digest

You can send reaction to our stories and photos to: info.b.i.k.world@gmail.com, 0809 847 6250 (SMS) or www.facebook.com/KujeVoice Abuja

BEAUTY:

20 make-up tricks every girl should know (2)

In our last edition, we listed the first 5 tricks every girl should know.

Today, we are continuing in that direction as we bring the 6 to 10 tricks so you can enhance and transform your looks because we all know it is good for our women to look sweet all the time.

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Liquid liner is one of the trickiest products to master, but once you learn the right way to do it, you can create chic eye makeup looks in a flash. An easy way to test out liquid liner is to first use a taupe eyeliner pencil to lightly trace a line just above your upper lashline. This trick lets you make sure the lines are even and accurate before next applying the liquid liner directly on top of the ‘practice’ line.

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You don’t have to be born with killer cheekbones when you can just fake it with this sculpting tip. Sweep a sheer shimmer powder along the top of your cheekbones and just under your temples. Next, pucker up to find the hollows of your cheeks.

Dust a deep nude blush in the sunken area just under the cheekbone. Smile and apply a peachy blush — use circular motions, starting at the apple of the cheek and slowly make larger circles with the brush.

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To score a red carpetworthy smoky eye, start by lining the inner rim of your lower lashlines, working the eyeliner into the lashes. Close your eyes and line the upper lashlines, pushing the liner into the lashes so there’s no gap between your lashes and the line. Use your fingertip to smudge it in, then sweep

eyeshadow across your lids and up into your creases, blending outwards and upwards towards (but not to!) your temple.

“You

don’t have to be born with killer cheekbones when you can just fake it with this sculpting tip.

Sweep a sheer shimmer powder along the top of your cheekbones and just under your temples”

A bold brow is an easy way to create an attentiongrabbing make-up look. Comb your brows with a spoolie brush or clean mascara wand to see how they lay naturally. Using a soft, slightly waxy brow pencil, shape the brow by using the thinner side of the tip. Then, take the flatter angle of the pencil and fill in the brow using short strokes that look similar to hair. Finish by blending a shimmery highlighter just below the brow bone to add brightness and lift.

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For multidimensional skin that’s neither too matte nor too dewy, apply highlighter before foundation.

With full coverage foundation, it can tend to look a little dull or matte as the day progresses. Having the highlighter underneath gives that glow. Whip out your favourite highlight, then go in with the foundation for total coverage that’s still radiant.

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SOURCE: www.stylecaster.com/

TIP: Place a shimmery highlighter below the brow bone to lift and add brightness ROMANCE:

Signs you are in

A

ny relationship that’s real will not be perfect, but if you’re willing to work at it and open up, it could be everything you’ve ever dreamed of.

Personal growth is embraced, celebrated, and shared It’s not about finding someone to lose yourself in, it’s about meeting someone to find yourself in.

When you connect with someone special, a best friend or a lifelong partner, this person helps you find the best in yourself. In this way, neither of you actually meet the best in each other; you both grow into your best selves by spending time together

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June - August 2017

LIVING:

Steps to looking your best on your birthday

By Chris B & Teresa

Birthdays are now commonly celebrated by girls. It is not a regular event to see boys planning for a next birthday. Because the relevance of the day event last a lifetime, it should be celebrated every year in style. So understand that it is an important occasion and you deserve all the attention. Follow the steps below to guide you in the next plan for your birthday.

Steps

1. BEAUTY Take a relaxing bath: Brush your teeth and use mouthwash. Wash your hair clean. Be sure you’re clean because it’s your day and the memories you create will last with you forever!

Smell nice: Spray on some perfume, toss a few mints in your mouth. Get a new scent so your friends will notice something new.

Concentrate on your face: Make sure your face is moisturized. Go for your desired look, but don’t overdo it. If you can’t do it right, get someone’s help.

Style your hair differently: A lot of styles involve treating or styling hair when it’s damp or wet. Study a few styles beforehand and try them out because you don’t want a disaster at the last moment.

Practice a few times. If you’re leaving it loose, style it well! Determine what suits you and go for it.

2. FASHION Wear comfortable clothing: Once you’re done with your bath and makeup, put on something comfortable. Easy flowing gown or a loose t-shirt are a good bet, because that will ensure you’re comfortable as you are going to move around alot.

Dress well: You need something that makes you the centre of attention. Don’t camouflage yourself in the room by wearing something people already know you with. Stand out, so that the moment people enter the venue, their eyes should focus on you. Make it obvious to everyone whose party it is. Of course, you also need to intelligently choose your outfit. Dressing takes away people’s attention from the make-up stuff. Make

the right relationship (2) and nurturing each other’s growth.

A healthy blend of freedom and teamwork Keep in mind that we can’t force anyone to be with us or love us.

We shouldn’t beg someone to stay when they want to leave. And likewise, we should never feel trapped in a relationship. In fact, if either person feels trapped, the relationship doesn’t really exist.

Because that’s what relationships are all about: freedom.

Relationships are also built on a solid foundation of teamwork. And since relationships are one of the greatest vehicles of personal growth and happiness, the most important trip you will ever take in life is meeting someone else halfway.

You will achieve far more by working with them, rather than working alone or against them. It

Lifestyle digest TOOLs you’ll need • Get a Camera or use your phone to take photos and also record unforgetable moments.

• Get all your birthday decoration items.

• A cake with inscription of the year on it.

• Use social media to notify friends and family.

sure you’re comfortable.

3. WELFARE Food & drink: Full meal is no longer in vogue. Get finger foods and snacks instead. While you’re eating or drinking, make sure you don’t spill anything on yourself. Make sure all the foods and drinks are ready before the time. Always get more than enough so some people will not be left out.

4. CELEBRATIONS Enjoy yourself: Remember, its your day. Make it worth the while. However, don’t go blabbing to all your guests- you don’t want to come off as a snob! Receive your guests with genuine delight and recognition. Be confident. If you’re not, fake it. Whatever you do, don’t be a sidekick in your own movie. Be pretty, not slutty, because that will come off as edgy or daring, which is not a good idea for a birthday. Act your age. Yes, you are the princess, but not the baby.

Wear a smile always: As they say, a smile is the best accessory to attract others’ appreciation and goodwill!

really is a full circle.

Honesty, vulnerability and presence are held sacred Although it may sound risky, the strongest type of love is the love that makes you the most vulnerable. It’s about daring to reveal yourself honestly, and daring to be open and fully disclosed over the longterm. It’s about sticking by each other’s side through thick and thin, and truly being there in the flesh and spirit when you’re needed most. So open yourself up. BE with the person you love. Allow yourself to experience them authentically.

Tear down any emotional brick walls you have built around yourself and feel every exquisite emotion, both good and bad.

This is real life.

SOURCE: www.marcandangel.com

12

Council diary

June - August 2017 For regular update of KAC activities, check our social media channels: KujeVoice Abuja

Compiled by Isaac Ballie & Haruna Usman (SA Media & Publicity to the chairman, Kuje Area Council)

The Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi D. Galadima inspecting a transformer installation at Rubochi

Installation of electricity pole for the new transformer at Rubochi

The Chairman inspecting some of the electrical installation items at Rubochi

The chairmen of Kuje and Abaji Area Councils, Hon. Abdullahi D. Galadima and Alh. Abdulrahaman Ajiya at Atako community during inspection of the councils’ border to resolve the lingering boundary issues.

The Executive Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi D. Galadima (right) with a chieftain of All Progressive Congress (APC) Hon. Danladi Etsu Zhin (left) when they met at Rubochi during a wedding reception.

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June - August 2017

Exclusive Interview

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Kuje is still the food basket of FCT

‘Kuje’s food production today triples other councils’ Cont’d from Page 8

do here is to monitor their activities businesses. What we are doing now is with all our extension officers around to make a change about the direction the council. We give them guidance that will benefit them tomorrow. We and education on what to do by bring them together using a particular providing practical ways for them to technique in order for them to go about it. And soon, we will start achieve success at the end, because reaping from the result because a small we know one of their challenges is farm holder, will become someone finance. But having with big space to money without the play his part in the knowledge is also outcome of the not going to work programme. So and that is why we with God leading have introduced the us and the support Anchor-Borrower from the people, and Programme by the leadership which involves of the chairman, a partnership one, as a Gbagyi between the farmers man, two, as a born – Native American and the Federal and trained farmer Government. In who also wants our this programme, people, especially the government will educate farmers the farmers, will want them to have on better ways to achieve better result something positive to say at the end on farm produce. And at the federal of this administration. And now that level, the CBN is also making sure that we made it mandatory for all civil all cooperative that are registered and servants, businessmen and women and dully certified by the requirements youths to embrace agriculture, it will of the law obtain loans so they can go a long way to boost farm business produce bigger farming output. All we in Kuje Area Council.

“We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.”

Agribusiness Development Strategies

uje Area Council is in a strategic position when it comes to better exploration and development opportunities of the land either for growth in agriculture, mining or construction. The following investment and development strategies focus on avenues the council can diversify the food basket of exportable cash crops from the council: (1.) Start development on the proposed Demontration Farm by setting aside large farm lands in hundreds of hectares strictly for agricultural purposes.

(2.) Organise agribusiness conference with stakeholders in agriculture and industry-associated banks to advise farmers and marketers on product development and investment strategies.

(3.) Identify the potentials of the products (Cocoa, Cashew, Rice, soya beans, yams, livestock, etc) to be included in the Demonstration Farm programme for export.

(4.) Work closely with agric agencies and foreign missions in Nigeria to develop beneficial partnership and training programmes for local farmers’ participations in international trade fairs and exhibitions in other countries.

(5.) Identify and develop partnership with key players in selected product sectors to set and achieve annual export targets.

(6.) Identify international marketing agencies to establish a coordinated straight sales channel according to global product demand.

(7.) Registration of Kuje farmers according to farm products for easier collection and dissemination of information on products and market available for export.

Farming is the answer to youth joblessness – Haruna, a Kuje farmer

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By Patrick Emoukhare t is widely believed that Kuje is the food basket of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) due to its vast farmlands and the ability of the indigenes to till the ground very well. And to confirm the fact that Kuje is really the food basket of FCT, a young farmer, Haruna Hussani Wuru said it is true because majority of the indigenes of Kuje Area Council are predominantly farmers and that is why there is food

supply all-round the seasons.

Mr Haruna, a son of a great farmer whose father rose to be the chief of farmers in Wuru village, started farming in his father’s various farm lands at younger age. And because of the early exposure, he developed the interest by taking farming as his business today.

After his father’s death on December 2, 2012, he Cont’d on Page 15

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June - August 2017

Council diary

Speaker of the Council’s legislative arm, Hon. Samson Gwomna Waziri during the chairman’s presentation of 2017 budget to the house.

Honourable Abdullahi D. Galadima taking a bow after presenting the ‘Budget of Reality’ to the legislative arm of the Council.

The chairman, Alh. Abdullahi D. Galadima with Kuje Traders Association chairman, Alh Musa Umar Gajerekure and others at a Jummat prayers in Kuje recently.

One of the rehabilitated borehole in Yenche community

‘Farming is the answer to youth joblessness’ Cont’d from Page 9 continued in his father’s footsteps by farming rice, yam, beans, maize and guinea corn production. Haruna has achieved a lot because he was able build his personal house from farm business. He also has houses for rent.

Haruna’s growth in agriculture is so smooth that he plans to own a tractor to enable him improve the farming activities.

“The present economic situation in Nigeria has affected prices of farming implements, chemicals, etc. Fertilizers are no longer available for local farmers. The soil is weak because of long years of cultivation and fertilizer, which is the only solution to improve crop cultivation and good harvest, is not available to cover all farmers. The cost of transportation of farm produce to the various markets in Kuje and its environs is also another serious reason why food prices are high in Kuje markets.” He further said.

The present administration uses farmers’ associations to coordinate agricultural activities in Kuje, but most local farmers still operates in isolation and see no need to be

part of it as Haruna also alleged that the whole thing has been politicized. And that is why he is not in any farmers’ association, even though he used to get information about the association from his late father when he was alive.

As farm lands get smaller by the day due to structural development by property agents, small scale farmers like Haruna plant economic trees in their lands as a guide against property developers to the farmlands owned by their forefathers for their descendants as he also intend to pass it on to his children someday.

On why the youths abandoned farming for other menial jobs and businesses, Haruna said, “the reason for this development is because the farm lands are no longer fertile as they used to be. Government is yet to assist farmers in getting fertilizer and other farming implements.” He believes this is the reason the youth have to look for alternative means of livelihood. He also appeals to the government to come to their aid with good farming incentives because there is a lot to be achieved in agriculture.

The good growth plan for sustainable agriculture

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ustainable agriculture is the practice of farming using principles of ecology, the study of relationships between organism and their environment. This involves the coming together of people and the planet for profits. In working together to increase the sustainability, we need to observe the importance of the six good growth plan by Syngenta.

1. Make crops more efficient 2. Rescue more farm lands 3. Help biodiversity flourish 4. Empower smallholder farmers 5. Help people stay safe 6. Look after every farmer To achieve our goals of a sustainable agriculture, a healthy combination of experience, research, innovation and practical field work is needed to be injected into the system. And also staying in close contact to the food processing and production industry, knowing the current and future economic requirements from agricultural farm output.

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Sustainable Living

June - August 2017

10 simple ways to live a sustainable life 1. Stop using paper towels for everything Buy a cheap supply of cloth napkins for everyday use and a bunch of cheap hand or dish towels to clean up spills and messes with. Buy some plain white hand towels and start using them when your children are learning to eat on their own and always had food all over their hands and face.

You will see that it is equivalent to a roll of paper towels a week trying to keep them clean.

2. Look for new ways to reuse things Sometimes you toss something away (from old pillows to shrunken sweaters) and then kick yourself a week later because you found a really cool tutorial that taught you a new use for it. There are literally hundreds of sites out there with incredible ideas for decor, crafts and so on. And if you don’t need the finished product yourself, use it as a gift or sell it. What to do with that old Christmas tree? Mulch the limbs for your garden and use the stem to make ornaments or this awesome table. Got a pile of books you can’t sell? Make a wreath! Turn an old dog food can into a drum or the beginnings of stilts or even reuse pages from old desk calendar books to make notes and shopping lists on.

3. Start thinking about planting a garden It doesn’t matter if you only grow your own herbs or one plant or the other.

Start growing things, taste the amazing flavour difference that homegrown plants gives (I think the sweat and tears you

Getting starting on the path to a more sustainable way of living may seem like a challenge, especially if you don’t know where to get started. It can take a bit of getting used to and you have to always be conscious of what you are doing, but it’s usually not all that hard. By Tiffany Muehlbauer of noordinaryhomestead.com put into it also improve taste).

You can grow in containers on your balcony, a small portion of your yard or even indoors. The important thing is just to get started.

Want to reuse all that newspaper you have lying around? Start folding these newspaper pots now for to start seeds in. You’d be amazed at how cheaply you can start a garden! A word of warning: start small. Smaller than you think you can handle. Especially if it’s in the ground and will need to be weeded often!

4. Cook it yourself Not only will you be saving a bundle of money and probably eating better, but you might even realize you really enjoy doing it! Cooking is always fun, that’s when you are not very hungry while doing it.

5. Conserve resources I know everyone preaches about this all the time. But if you’re not in the room, turn off the lights. And flip off the TV and your components when you’re done watching it. Not only will it save electricity, but you might even be more productive if you

work near a TV. They have their own magnetic fields that can honestly interfere with your brain waves.

You will seriously feel better when you work with the TV turned off.

Even if there is nothing playing and the TV is silent, you will feel like the air around you clear when the TV goes off.

6. Learn how to make things yourself Living in Kuje Area Council, there are a lot of things you will not get here.

So you either had to find a way to make it yourself or do without. You can also make your own diaper wipes, shampoo, laundry detergent…and all of these things are not only a lot cheaper, but often also healthier and might even just be fun to make. And yes you CAN learn to make your own home repairs and renovations.

Leave the plumbing and electrical to the pros…but everything else you can definitely learn.

7. Switch to simple cleaning solutions You would be amazed at the number of things you can clean with just baking soda and vinegar. I’m not kidding. Throw some essential oils into the mix and elbow grease and you’ll have the cleanest house on the block.

You’ll need less bottles of stuff under the sink, have less to worry about ending up in

June - August 2017

Sustainable Living your children’s mouths and never have to run from the bathroom due to toxic fumes from a bottle again. Old essential oils like orange or lemon that have otherwise lost their effectiveness are great for freshening up bathrooms.

You can put a few drops inside the toilet paper roll or in the toilet.

8. Use and enjoy

what you’ve got Put a buying freeze on yourself and learn to appreciate the things you have. Read the books in your shelf, wear the clothes in your closet, pack up and cycle through the toys in your childrens’ rooms so they become new to them every few weeks, and just focus on the things you’ve already acquired in life. If you absolutely must get something new, make yourself get rid of two other similar things to make room for the new thing.

So if your kids want a new toy, they have to get rid of two old ones.

If you want a new pair of jeans, get rid of two pieces of clothing you’re not wearing. You’ll not only bless others, but you will also be blessing yourself by having less to sort through and clean.

9. Buy quality items and share them with others Be a huge fan of hand-me-downs and be astonished by what some people end up throwing away. Go online to find stuff that people are getting rid of for free.

Set up book and clothing swaps with your friends and neighbours. Pass on toys to other generations of children in your family.

10. Shop locally We’re really lucky to have a great collection of shops in our town so that we can pick up fresh produce, locally grown meat and send out mail all in one trip by foot. In bigger cities that’s not always practical, but if you start supporting the smaller, locally owned businesses in your community, you’ll not only be helping the local economy, but you might also find yourself eating healthier in-season foods, learn to cook new things and make some new friends.

Send reaction to: www.facebook.com/KujeVoice Abuja

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Woman’s world

Agbo girls: Stylishly running Kuje streets

There is no way you will say you didn’t notice their sleekness in modern fashion while they are selling the traditional herbal medicine, ‘Agbo’. But this is not about the drink or what it does; it is about the girls selling it especially their fashion and dressing style.

By Isaac Ballie

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he Agbo girls are everywhere, selling different flavours of the popular medicinal herbal drink.

People stop whatever they are doing to stare, and both men and women stare wondering what is the motive behind such sleekness of some of the girls.

Apart from the herbal drink, Agbo girls also sell kpomo, gin and they ply their trade around mechanical, carpentry, welding and block-making workshops; in just any business centres where intense force is used to achieve success at the work.

These girls are very popular around town as most of their customers patronise them for different herbal remedy they may seek. According to one of the girls I confronted at my mechanic’s workshop, she said, “just because we sell Agbo, some people tend to look down on us, so some of us started using modern fashion to attract more customers. And now instead of abuse and disrespect, we get respect and attention.” This justification seems to be working for them as they are now looked at with high esteem wherever they appear to sell the Agbo drink.

Most of the girls are not

only stylish, some are extremely beautiful and the ‘business of looking good’ is really working for them.

The Agbo girls are the most agile women in Kuje today, not because of the herbal drink they sell, but because of the exercise they do everyday trekking from one shop to another in almost every street.

An average of 5 km is what an Agbo seller covers while selling the drink, kpomo and gin. This include walking from Kuje main market, which is always the starting point to Kuchiyako road, Kuje Airport road, around Pasali and Cashew Forest areas, Sundaba, Shetuko and Kayarda axis and Sauka extension areas.

Just like Fura da Nono which is strictly a business for Fulani girls and women, the sale of Agbo drink is mainly hawked by Yoruba girls from Kwara and very few others from Western part of Nigeria.

This is a business that is popular all over Nigeria and a drink so powerful that it has remained relevant over the years. So the next time you see an Agbo girl and looking modern and stylishly running Kuje streets selling the traditional drink, throw away whatever impression you have earlier and know that for any business to remain relevant, innovation needs to be injected for it to thrive in any situation.

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June - August 2017

Social circle

You can send reaction to our stories and photos to: info.b.i.k.world@gmail.com, 0809 847 6250 (SMS) or www.facebook.com/KujeVoice Abuja

D’Sho Centre: An ultra-modern colourful relaxation spot

By Patrick Emoukhare

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uje is steadily experiencing a revolution in the entertainment world as more relaxation centres are openning doors for the people to relax, celebrate and be happy. The centre which is along GGSS new road is an edifice to behold. A first time visitor to the centre will see it as a mini-Disney World, both day and night.

According to the manager, Mrs. Victoria Shogbola, the centre is a humble contribution to the entertainment business in Kuje. She said people need to relax after a busy day in the office and

the best way of doing this is to come over to D’Sho Centre, which serves as a home away from home where they will cherish the wonder of a quiet but colourful atmosphere.

Segments at the centre include restaurant/bar which is well stocked with chilled assorted soft and alcoholic drinks, outdoor games, an event hall where conferences, seminars, birthday and marriage ceremonies can take place.

Other areas are the sports and crèche lounge. The centre is also introducing a weekly flea market. This is the first of its kind in Kuje. The market is where you

can dispose all your unwanted things in the house, including clothing. The centre provides a small space with a token fee where you can do your business.

The crèche will afford nursing mothers the opportunity of dropping there babies in the hands of well trained nannies when going to the office or market.

The centre also boasts of an ultramodern car wash while you relax in the bar or restaurant waiting for your car being given an automated washing treatment. Visit the centre and you will certainly not regret it.

Hotel De Barbedos ‘Carribean Garden Bar’

By Isaac Ballie

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he Carribean Bar inside Hotel De Barbedos is your next best place to relax and unwind as it is situated in a serene environment that is good

for perfect time out with either friends or family for all sort cold drinks.

The restaurant has a secret recipe for all its pepper soups as the taste will keep your taste buds in need for more. The service delivery

is also prompt and unique because every customer is treated as king and queen. Take time out soon and savour the delicacies of the Carribean bar and restaurant.

Introducing MANCHESTER UNITED GUEST HOUSE, Gudaba

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t last, Gudaba socialites and football fans now have a place they can call their own as the guest house is a veritable place you can watch live matches throughout the season. In a chat with KujeVoice, Richard Tobechukwu Madubuike, the owner of the outfit assured

KujeVoice that mouthwatering pepper soups like chicken, Nkwobi, point & kill fish, cowhead, goat meat and others will be constantly available.

Manchester United Guest House which is directly behind Timber shed, Gudaba is covered with mango trees that naturally provide cool

atmosphere all year round. The drinks are always chilled and affordable no matter what level you are in the society.

The chalets for quick onlocation lodging are modest and unbelievably affordable.

For now the guest house is currently the talk of the town in Gudaba and neighbouring Jeida Village.

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June - August 2017

Social circle Mama Margaret Palm Wine Park

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f you are looking for a drinking joint with village setting, Madam Margaret palm wine park is where you should go. It is situated in close-knit environment with a block making factory and mechanic workshops, opposite Dunamis Junction near Tipper Garage, Kuje. For lovers of original palm wine, this place is your best choice. For this reason people come from all over Abuja to patronize this modest place under a tree.

The wine tappers are experts from Gaube area of Kuje and beyond. The place also boasts of well prepared spicy bush meat of assorted types.

The bush meats are in stock all year round. The palm wine bar operates from 12 noon to 7pm daily, Sunday inclusive.

A regular visitor to the place, Mr. Lucky said, “If I don’t take this palm wine in a day, I feel terrible because this palm wine is medicinal. It cures malaria fever, measles and smallpox and other stomach aliments in the body.”

Another client of Madam Margaret palm wine joint, Leo, asserted that for those who want the real thing as far as palm wine in Kuje is concerned; this is the place. So if you don’t know where to go during the weekend try and visit the joint for a change.

Madam Imo Wide Joint, Bamishi

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amishi is a small village along the road to Dafara and Gaube axis immediately after the Army checkpoint Kuchiyako.

Madam Imo is situated in Bamishi popular junction, atop an exciting hill opposite the main bus stop.

The joint which is strictly a family business is the rendezvous for those who want serene atmosphere and value for their money. While there, you will have the opportunity of watching vehicular movements from Kuje to

Dafara and Gaube. The road is busy because of a standard Tipper garage by the roadside around Dafara.

The restaurant boasts of African menu of assorted types: bush meat, Intestine soups and fish at customers request. Bamishi enjoys steady electricity supply and this automatically is the reason why drinks here are always chilled. The owners are friendly and have the penchant of making customers feel at home while enjoying good times.

Note: If you’d like us to review your relaxation centre in our next edition, kindly notify us on 0809 874 6250 (sms only). It is free but copies must be bought as part of our magazine promotion.

Social Justice Top 20 mistakes people make in drinking bars

By Isaac Ballie & Mike Omotayo 1. Never believe someone you know has money for your drinks. Except he/she earlier call you to meet him/her.

2. For regular drinkers, notify the bar tender/owner about any order you’ll make before you request for more drinks you cannot pay for.

3. Never buy more drinks for friends on credit. It is not compulsory or obligatory.

4. To avoid embarrassment, always pay previous debts before taking another.

5. Avoid getting in a physical fight at bars.

No matter how provoked you are, keep your cool and walk away with your pride and respect.

6. If you talk too much and repeatedly or out of point when drunk, avoid drinking at busy bars or midst of people.

7. Never make the mistake of drinking and paying with money in one bar while you still owe in the next bar.

8. If you drink alone or with friends, always finish drinks in glasses and cork bottle with the cover before walking off to take a pee or answer call.

9. Never call out someone for a bottle and or if you do not intend to pay for his drink.

10. Never engage in discussion of personal/family issues and challenges at public bars and expect people around not to listen. Freely talk with others about news, scandals and rumours you hear/see online or around you but avoid religious issues, especially if it is blasphemous in nature.

Indoor Hall of Manchester United Guest House, Gudaba

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June - August 2017

Council Diary

A firefighter from Kuje Fire Service putting out fire that gutted some parts of Kuje market recently.

Some parts of the Kuje market as the fire rages on.

Vice chairman, Hon. Samuel T. Duda (in tracksuit) and some officials inspecting the damage

Minister of FCT, Mal. Mohammed Musa Bello (middle) during a condolence visit to the Gomo of Kuje, HRH Alhaji Haruna Jibrin Tanko over the death of his father, Alh Shuaibu Jibrin who passed away on February 27, 2017.

The Minister was received by Kuje council chairman, Alh Abdullahi D. Galadima (middle) with his cabinet members.

June - August 2017

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Lighter mood

I would like to impact on everybody around me positively – Alh. Nasiru Alhaji Adamu Nasiru is a well-known socialite and a business mogul cum urban planner with quintessential qualities. The successful property developer believes that nothing is impossible when there is money and ideas to implement and execute. Alhaji Nasiru hails from Irekpai in Uzairue, Etsakor West Local Government Area of Edo State.

Before relocating to Kuje, Nasiru had worked in big hotels like Agura Hotel and Sheraton Hotels, and later with Julius Berger in the Survey section. He is the owner/chairman of Hotel De Barbedos Apartments and Suites, and also Nasadams & Co Nig. Ltd, the real estate arm of Nasiru’s business empire.

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By Patrick Emoukhare

finances involved. Studying Urban and Regional Planning is not a child’s play.

It involves spending so much money in buying materials for

during my service year. I am so proud and lucky to have met her. In short, she is the most supportive wife you can ever have. All my achievements and successes recorded now were attributable to Almighty Allah and my humble wife.

My hobbies Nasiru: I like reading, listening to news and engaging in intellectual discourse.

My role model Nasiru: My role model is my late father. The other person is Dr. Amos Bamidele Babade, a director in the Health Services department of FCTA and also a senior pastor with RCCG. My Philosophy in life Nasiru: I believe that everything is controlled by Almighty Allah and I would like to impact on everybody around me positively.

The house-help I prefer: Male or Female?

Nasiru: As a Muslim from a polygamous background, I would prefer children of relatives both from my wife side and mine. We will train them to be useful to themselves than hiring a paid house-help.

My favourite kind of music Nasiru: I love reggae, Makossa or Soucous and Nigerian hip hop music.

My definition of success Nasiru: It is the ability for one to achieve his set goals and objectives.

My favourite designers Nasiru: I wear Marks and Spencer, Gucci, YSL, Nautica, Nike.

Others are Adidas, Slanzenger (Puma), Clarks etc.

My Favourite Food Nasiru: I like pounded yam with egusi soup spiced with our local locust bean (Ugbah). There must be plenty of dry fish and goat meat in it. This must be prepared by my lovely wife. She knows how to do it best.

ow long I have been in Kuje Nasiru: I have been in Abuja since 1994. I am more than a decade and half in Kuje now, that is roughly fifteen years now.

Life in Kuje when I came Nasiru: At that time you could count the number of cars and buildings in Kuje. Also, if you wait till 3pm in Kuje, you may likely not get a vehicle that will take you to Abuja town. In summary, Kuje was rural then.

How I spend my weekened Nasiru: I spend my weekends with my family.

After that I go around to inspect my businesses like the Alhaji Nasiru Adamu... “I believe that everything is controlled by Almighty Allah.” hotel and some of my estates in Kuje. I use my weekends designs in various assignments and to read national dailies, magazines feeding. As a student then, you are the and also attend to my business first to arrive the school and the last correspondences. In the evenings, I receive my friends and associates at the to leave for the semester. At times you don’t have holidays, other students will hotel where we sit to discuss current leave you behind and on resumption issues in the country and ponder on you are still there. how to move our various businesses forward.

How I met my wife What happened to me on my Nasiru: I met my wife in Kuje happiest day on earth Nasiru: My happiest day on earth “As a Muslim from a polygamous background, I was when I was mobilized for NYSC. I did my NYSC in Kuje. Let me explain would prefer children of relatives both from my further, my journey through school wife side and mine. We will train them to be useful was bumpy and stressful at that time. to themselves than hiring a paid house-help” It became difficult because of the

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Agronews

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By Blessing Okpala rom time immemorial, agriculture has been a crucial sector in the economy of most countries especially in the area of growing cash crops like palm kernels, rubber, cocoa, coffee, cotton, peanuts and cashew. These cash crops contribute immensely to the economy of these countries and one of such crops that I’ve picked interest to discuss with you is cashew. Apart from being a cash crop, cashew is also very essential due to its numerous benefits to our health. Being among the popular tree nuts in the world, cashew continues to draw huge attention on a daily basis.

But despite its popularity, it is just surprising that most people are still ignorant of the amazing health benefits and uses of this distinctive plant.

Here is a brief description of this valuable plant that you see everywhere around you in Kuje and other area councils.

Nutritional facts and benefits of Cashew The cashew apple is rich in essential nutrients and it is highly valuable because it contains 5 times more vitamin C than citrus fruits such as orange. It contains between 10% to 38% protein, 13% dietary fiber, 11% carbohydrates, less than 19% of dietary minerals (phosphorus, copper, manganese) and between 79 to 110% of magnesium. It is also an excellent source of vitamin K, potassium, thiamin, iron, selenium, zinc, vitamin B6, amino acids, fructose, betasitosterol and glucose.

Edible purposes Cashew seeds, which are popularly referred to as cashew nuts are the most consumed part of the tree. Cashew nuts can be eaten alone or used for preparing assorted dishes. The nuts can be processed into cashew oil, cashew butter or cashew cheese.

Cashew nuts can be grounded or blended for thickening stews, soups or watery food. Cashew nuts are used in confectionery for baking cakes and pastries.

Roasted Cashew Nuts The cashew apples can be eaten fresh

June - August 2017

Useful information on agricultural products for people in Kuje Area Council

Amazing benefits of Cashew “Researchers reveal that cashew seed extract significantly stimulates blood sugar absorption by the muscle cells. As a result, it regulates blood sugar level and prevents insulin resistance in diabetic patients� or used for preparing fruit juice, cashew smoothie, astringent fruit drinks, alcoholic drinks, vinegar, liquor, jams and chutneys. The astringent cashew taste is as a result of the presence of waxy layer on its skin and this contains a

chemical known as urushiol. Some countries remove this astringency by steaming, boiling the fruit in water for at least 5 minutes before rinsing in cold water. The astringency can also be removed by soaking the cashew

apples in gelatin or turmeric water for 5 minutes before washing in cold water.

Antibacterial properties Due to its antibacterial properties, cashew is very active against bacteria and as such can be used in suppressing their growth and tendency to reproduce. It is important to note that the dangerous ones cause infection while the beneficial ones are essential for decomposition and fermentation processes.

Treatment of Venereal Diseases Cashew leaves are used in folk medicine for treating venereal diseases.

It can also be used for treating genital diseases.

Anti-diabetic properties Researchers reveal that cashew seed extract significantly stimulates blood sugar absorption by the muscle cells.

As a result, it regulates blood sugar level and prevents insulin resistance in diabetic patients. This is attributed to its anti-diabetic properties.

Skin care The cashew leaves, oil and roots can be used for producing herbal soap for treating skin diseases such as rashes, itches, eczema, psoriasis and syphilis-related skin disorders.

Treatment of Gastrointestinal Diseases The extracts from the bark, stems and leaves of the cashew tree can be used for treating gastrointestinal diseases such as colonic pain, diarrhea, dysentery and dyspepsia (indigestion).

Anti-inflammatory Properties Cashew tree products contain effective anti-inflammatory properties and such can be used for reducing inflammation, swelling and body pain.

Antiviral properties Cashew leaves extracts offer

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protection against viruses and as such can be used for preparing herbal medicines for treating cold, bronchitis and cough.

Treatment of impotence Studies reveal that cashew extracts can be used for treating impotence, which is a sexual dysfunction associated with failure to develop or maintain an erection of the penis during sexual intercourse.

Animal feed The cashew pulp obtained after juice extraction from the apple can serve as animal feed.

Production of Cashew Nut Shell Liquid (CNSL) It is a valuable raw material that is suitable for producing fuel, paints, lubricants, vanishes, brake fluid and clutch linings. Cashew nut shell liquid is equally used for making fungicides, agglutinants, lacquers and insecticides.

Erosion control The cashew tree is drought-resistant thus can withstand severe weather conditions. Due to its resistant nature, it is usually planted for controlling erosion. It produces substantial amount of litter that is beneficial for reducing soil he cocoa bean tree erosion. Moreover, the trees normally grow in flourishes in regions of the rows thus making them useful as windbreaks. world around the equator.

The tree requires ample Uses of Cashew rain production, humidity and • Firewood and charcoal production high year-round heat. They require • Making local wooden fences. ongoing protection from the sun • The outer of a tree bark extract for making and wind. Fruit production begins black dye for tanning and tattooing when the tree reaches 5 years old.

Pod production peaks at 10 years • The tree produces and continues until thick gum for adhesive the tree reaches 40. purposes.

Seedling • Offer shades and shelter protection from sunlight.

Cocoa seedlings • Planted for controlling require protection to erosion thrive until they are Cashew allergy 4 years old. Coconut Some people are allergic to trees, plantains cashew apples and cashew nuts. and banana trees – Arthur Keith Such allergic reactions can be are often planted life-threatening and necessitate around the young quick medical intervention cocoa seedlings to should there be any. The allergic nature of cashew offer shade and wind protection. is due to its constituent of gastric and soluble When a cocoa tree has ample oxalates triggered mainly by the proteins in the shade from the tropical sunlight, tree nuts. its lifespan is often increased to 100 DISCLAIMER years.

This write-up is for enlightenment purposes Flower production only and should not be used as a replacement The flowers of the cocoa tree are for professional diagnosis and treatments. produced year-round and grow side Remember to always consult your healthcare by side with the cocoa pods. The provider before making any health-related flowers are a waxy white or pink in decisions or for counselling, guidance and color. They grow in large clusters by treatment of any medical ailment. the thousands. Flowers are located Okpala is a researcher and blogger living in the on mature older branches and UK. She can be reached at: along the tree’s trunk. Despite an abundance of blossoms, only 3 per www.globalfoodbook.com/

Agronews

The life cycle of cocoa tree

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“The discovery of agriculture was the first big step towards a civilised life.”

cent to 10 per cent will ever manage to mature into a fruitful seedpod.

Foliage and growth The foliage of the cocoa tree begins a brilliant red. As the leaves mature they turn green.

The tree produces a deep taproot that measures about 3 feet long.

It also produces an abundance of horizontal feeder roots that spread out 20 feet around the tree in search of water and nutrients. The tree grows about 50 feet tall.

Seed pods Seed pods mature over 5 to 6 months. Each pod measures between 8 to 14 inches when fully grown. Pods appear in yellow, red, green and purple. Pods often have a speckled appearance when fully grown. Each seed pod contains 20 to 60 seeds embedded in a soft white pulp. The seeds produce cocoa butter.

Harvest Harvest takes place year-round when seed pods ripen. The pods are chopped from the tree by hand using a machete. The seed pods are never pulled from the tree because they can do considerable damage to the limbs and trunk by ripping bark and causing a delay in future flower production in the wounded area.

SOURCE: www.gardenguides.com/

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Security Watch

Problems militating against fire service operations – YOMI ADELEKE

By Patrick Emoukhare

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Several fire incidents were recorded in Kuje Area council since the beggining of this year, and some of these incidents were highly destructive as goods and properties worth millions were lost. In view of this, Kujevoice crew met the man at the helms of affairs of the Kuje Fire Service Station, deputy fire superintendent, Yomi Adeleke to educate the public on fire prevention, challenges and other safety tips to help prevent future occurence.

hen did Fire Service operations start in Kuje Area Council?

Adeleke: Fire Service started in Kuje Area Council in the year 2003, April to be precise.

Since establishment how many residents as regard fire prevention? stay in the kitchen unattended. Where fire incidents have you fought? available, check your smoke, fire alarm Adeleke: The fire prevention Adeleke: Kuje Area Council station systems regularly. Never smoke in bed or tips are as follows: Purchase a fire has fought approximately 300 fire around inflammable substances, dispose extinguisher for your vehicle and learn outbreaks. This includes residential cigarettes stubs appropriately. Safeguard how to use it, and in places, install apartments, markets, bush burning, your property against fire incidents. adequate number of fire extinguishers electrical (transformers and fuel fire). and service them regularly. Ensure In the event of fire outbreak raise What are the difficulties that electrical installations are alarm by shouting, FIRE! FIRE!! FIRE!!! experienced so far? carried out by professionals. Always Keep shouting until everybody is out Adeleke: So far, the difficulties place your gas cylinders outside the of the premises and away from danger include: bad road network, unserious kitchen. Never allow children to play zones. Help the children, the physically attitude of the people towards with matches or challenged. Try and put off the fire embracing fire prevention culture and if it is safe to do so. Find your way lack of awareness on the out and remain outside. part of the residents Do you encourage bush of Fire Service burning around residential emergency phone lines. areas?

Other issues include Adeleke: It is a yes-no lateness in reporting situation.

Yes, if you are burning fire outbreak, negative a bush and must wait to comments on the part extinguish the fire from burning of some uninformed further. No, if you cannot wait members of the public, to see the end of the burning chiding or indicting fire fire. fighters for arriving at Apart from fire-fighting, the scene of fire outbreak what other emergencies/ late whereas the public disasters fall under your did not inform the station jurisdiction? promptly.

Adeleke: Rescue services, Do you have enough catching of stray animals and manpower and modern persons of unstable mind, equipment to fight fire in rescue of persons drowning Kuje? in well, river etc.

Adeleke: We appreciate Advice for people using FCTA for what they have inflammable items. been able to provide for us but the Oliver Twist tendency Adeleke: For kerosene, in us will always make us to do not refill your lamp, stove ask for more, and there’s room Yomi Adeleke, Deputy Fire Superintendent, Kuje Area Council, or generator when the lights for improvement. are on.

Abuja What are the criteria for joining the service?

“In the event of fire outbreak raise alarm by Adeleke: It is called COPPEDIT. shouting, FIRE! FIRE!! FIRE!!! Keep shouting This means – Courage, Observance, Patience, Physically fit, Endurance, until everybody is out of the premises and away Diligent, Determination, Inquisitive from danger zones. Help the children, the mind and Tactful. physically challenged” What advice do you have for

The Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi D. Galadima presenting copies of Exercise books and Examination Questions and Answer booklets to Education Secretary, Mr. Danladi Bulus for primary school students of Kuje Area Council.

The Chairman and other officials of the council with students of LEA Kayarda Primary School.

The Chairman, Hon. Abdullahi Danladi Galadima and his vice, Hon. Samuel T. Duda during a meeting with councillors and other stakeholders to introduce the Environmental Sanitation Exercise in Kuje

The Chairman, Kuje Area Council, Hon. Abdullahi Danladi Galadima in a group photograph with officals of the council, staff and students of LEA Primary School, Kayarda.

A cross-section of councillors and other stakeholders during the meeting with Hon. Abdullahi D. Galadima to introduce the ESE programme

Committed to clean environment

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he administration of Alhaji Abdullahi D. Galadima in Kuje Area Council remains committed in ensuring the council is the cleanest among the six area councils of the Federal Capital Territory. Alh. Abdullahi D. Galadima said this while inspecting the council monthly

Environmental Sanitation exercise recently in Kuje.

In a statement released recently, Hon. Galadima commended the Council’s Environmental Sanitation Committee for injecting the spirit of ‘keep Kuje clean’ into the minds of the people. The monthly sanitation exercise will

help in curtailing the problem of sanitation challenges in the council.

Kuje Area Council was among the first area council in the territory to complied with the FCT minister’s directives on monthly sanitation exercise to be observed by six area councils.

Hon. Abdullahi Danladi Galadima, Chairman, Kuje Area Council