THEWILL DOWNTOWN April 14, 2024

In The Spotlight With TIMINI EGBUSON

Very few young Nollywood actors are good at their craft, and Timini Egbuson is one of them. Born in Bayelsa, Egbuson got into acting in his early twenties. His first break came with his role as Toby in MTV’s Shuga, a role he played for about seven years. Timini Egbuson says he didn’t think he had what it took to be an actor, but after being cast in Tinsel, he wanted to do better. And with a sister and mentor like A-list Nollywood actress Dakore Egbuson-Akande, he had someone to look up to, telling himself that if she could do it, so could he. Coming from an entertainmentbased family also helped because that would mean he was naturally inclined to the entertainment industry. Plus, he had his big sister to guide him on the dos and don’ts of the industry. He says he still receives guidance from her and doesn’t think it will stop soon. When it comes to rejection, Timini believes that it is part of the process as an actor and that at some point in time, you might feel like you are right for a role, but the director’s vision for the producers might not see you being in it, and it’s something you have to understand. Timini discusses his career on pages 8 to 10.

Have you ever wondered why your body itches when you sometimes come out of the shower? Our beauty page gives more insight into this mystery, while our fashion pages discuss the dos and don’ts of high-waisted pants.

Don’t miss the chance to discover our carefully curated playlist. Simply scan the QR codes on page 16 or click on the instructions below the QR codes to download. I assure you, it’s a musical journey you won’t want to miss.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

FASHION

The Dos And Don’ts of HIGH-WAISTED PANTS

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

High-waisted pants have existed for a very long time and are one of the major go-tos for fashion enthusiasts because they help project legs and slender frames. High-waisted pants are very versatile; you can rock them to whatever event you are going to as long as you can style them appropriately. This is another reason why you should be equipped with knowledge on how to rock this versatile piece so an epic fashion fail can be avoided. This article will explore the dos and don’ts

2. GET THE RIGHT FIT

Ensure that the high-waisted pants you own fit well. The waistband should fit snugly over your ribs. A somewhat thinner fit on your thighs is preferred even if some high-waisted trousers have broad legs.

WEAR THEM WITH THE RIGHT TOP AVOID OVERACCESSORISING

When selecting a top, bear in mind that high-waisted pants are designed to accentuate your waist. The tightened waist of an ensemble will be highlighted with a crop top, fitting bodysuit, or tucked shirt. Crop tops might not be comfortable for everyone but if you can manage to wear them, good for you because crop tops give you a stylish look that will get people staring at you in admiration.

You can wear a belt to dress up your high-waisted pants, but you should wear as few accessories as possible. Wearing high-waisted trousers alone will give you all the attention you need, and overdoing embellishments will draw attention away from your well-defined waist and toward

.DON’T FORCE A HIGH-WAIST

Your pants are either high-waisted or not. Do not force anything. If you force regular pants to be high-waisted, they look ridiculous and leave an uncomfortable gap in your crotch area.

6. CHOOSE THE RIGHT SHOES

High-waisted pants look great with any shoe, but generally speaking, your shoe selection should help add to the length of your body. Higher shoes, such as stilettos or booties with high heels, will assist in elongating your figure if you’re small in stature or have a short torso. For people with long torsos, flats are more effective.

5. MAKE SURE THEY ARE THE RIGHT LENGTH

Not too long, not too short—your highwaisted pants should fit you properly. If they have broad legs, make sure the hem reaches the tip of your toes, but make sure they are not sweeping the floor completely. However, slim high-waisted pants should end at the ankle; anything longer than that looks terrible. Depending on your height and body type, adjust the hem or inseam of your pants.

7. KEEP IT CASUAL

CONCLUSION

Styling high-waisted pants doesn’t need you to go overboard. No matter what you choose to wear with your high-waisted pants, ensure that you’re still paying attention to proportions and most importantly, make sure your waistline stays accentuated.

A popular choice for fullcoverage casual wear is highwaisted pants. An easygoing weekend look may be achieved by tucking an oversized, slouchy sweater into slim high-rise pants along with a white sneaker. Wear sandals and a basic white T-shirt or graphic tee in place of the sweater during warm weather.

THINGS NO ONE TELLS YOU ABOUT MASTURBATION 6

1. You Cannot Possibly Overindulge in Masturbation to The Point Where You Are Unable to Enjoy Having Sex With A Real Person

Most people believe that a person can become so skilled at getting himself or herself off that no one else can match it. That’s not true because someone else touching you is always better than you touching yourself. It just is.

3. Masturbation is Not Risk-free

2. Using Sex Toys Doesn’t Make You Bad at Doing It Yourself

You’re not the worst masturbator in the world just because you can’t stop using sex toys. To be honest, hands will never really win over sex toys. Sex toys are highly recommended, particularly at midnight when you’re exhausted and don’t feel like multitasking tricks but still want to get off quickly so you can go to sleep.

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Although it’s a normal and widespread part of human sexuality, masturbation is still a topic that’s often discussed in whispers and with secrecy. Many facets of self-pleasure remain unsaid, even if they are common. To give readers a thorough understanding of this essential aspect of the human experience, we reveal six things no one tells you about masturbation.

4.There’s no “Normal” Amount of Masturbation.

Men and women alike may become fixated on the question of how much they masturbate. However, the number of times you masturbate in a given week (or day) is not the most important factor. How it fits into your life is what matters. Congratulations if you live a happy, healthy life despite engaging in frequent masturbation. However, you should think about visiting a sex therapist if you find yourself missing work or giving up on having sex with your spouse due to frequent masturbation.

5. Masturbating Even Though You Are in A Relationship Doesn’t Make You A Cheating Skank

Individuals who are single or in a relationship both engage in masturbation. Some people assume that their partner’s masturbation indicates infidelity or that they aren’t good enough [in bed], so they become jealous when their partners do it. It is important to recognise that individuals possess varying degrees of sexual desire, all of which are perfectly normal and healthy, even though some may include masturbation.

CONCLUSION

6. Masturbation is Packed With A Lot of Health Benefits

Masturbation has several advantages for health. Better sleep, less tension and stress, fewer headaches, more focus, higher self-esteem, a more youthful appearance, and increased fitness are a few of them. In addition, there are certain benefits unique to sexual health for women, especially those who are older. These benefits include decreased vaginal dryness and soreness during intercourse. Yes, the risk is minimal. That is the most secure method of having sex. Nobody has ever caused their pregnancy or contracted an STD from themself. Still, some risks are involved, just like with other low-risk activities like walking or chewing. Skin irritation can be a minor side effect of rough or frequent masturbation. An uncommon but horrific disorder known as a penile fracture can occur when an erect penis is bent violently, rupturing the chambers that fill with blood.

There are benefits and drawbacks to the complex phenomenon of masturbation in human sexuality. Reaping the benefits of a more positive and educated view of self-gratification and a more healthy attitude to sexual well-being can be achieved by understanding these aspects.

In The Spotlight With TIMINI EGBUSON

In the ever-entertaining Nigerian movie industry, Nollywood has been blessed with many talented actors, actresses, directors, producers, screenwriters, and crew members. These talented individuals help tell the story of millions of people who can’t tell the stories themselves.

Among the notable, skilled, and gifted actors in Nollywood, Timini Egbuson has made a name for himself and has proven worthy of being among the notable names in Nollywood.

Born in Bayelsa, Timini took to acting in his early 20s. He captivates audiences with his natural ability to portray diverse characters and breathes life into every role he undertakes. Over the years, he has become an actor known for giving excellent performances that garner attention and leave a lasting impression.

With an impressive body of work that spans movies and series, Timini continues to push boundaries and challenge the status quo, earning accolades and acclaim from critics and audiences alike.

In this exclusive interview, Timini Egbuson speaks with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Johnson Chukwueke about his cinematic career, its ups and downs, and recordbreaking projects.

What was your first significant break or opportunity in the acting world, and how did it shape your journey?

It would be MTV’s Shuga. Yeah, that would be it. I joined the cast of MTV’s Shuga as Toby because that’s what put me in contact with most of the industry’s players. The longevity that came with that—I think I was in 6 or 7 seasons of that—stamped me as a permanent force in the industry over the course of 6 or 7 years.

What’s one memorable audition from the early days of your career? How did you prepare, and what emotions were running through you at that time?

Okay, before I got my first big break, I used to go for a whole lot of auditions, and at that point in time, it was just like a hobby. I wasn’t even sure I had what it takes to be an actor. But when I went for the Tinsel auditions, you know, when Tinsel announced its auditions, there were thousands of people, and it was one of the biggest breaks that an actor could ask for. So when I got there, I remember I was asked to dance and sing, and the audition normally lasted 3 minutes for the average person, but I ended up staying in there for like 15 minutes, and after that, I got a callback, and I was picked to be a cast in Tinsel. So yeah, that was a really big break for me, even though it didn’t end up being a major role, but the fact that I had what it took among a multitude of people, I was selected and given a chance, that fueled my desire and thirst to do better and be better.

are people I have always looked at the trajectory of their careers and admired how they have been able to gracefully stay relevant and gracefully give their best to the industry and also help the industry grow. Also, mentors in my age bracket are Burna Boy, Wizkid, and Davido. I love how they have taken their industry to another level and brought a lot of global recognition, which is where I kinda feel like is the next level Nollywood needs to be. Music and movies go hand in hand, so I feel like the actors, actresses, producers, and directors have put in so much to grow the industry, so the next level is to take these talents overseas and make Nollywood a bigger global export that it should be.

“I do as much research as possible, and I study and get as much knowledge as I can. There’s something called the “Character Bible” that most scripts would have, so I go through that and try to understand who it is that I am portraying. ”

Now, starting in any industry comes with challenges, that’s a given. What were some challenges you faced at the beginning of your acting career, and how did you overcome them?

I feel like challenges are a part of every step of an actor’s or even a human being’s process, but starting out, I would say that the fact that I was given the role of somebody’s brother or someone’s son, you know, just being a family member, those supporting roles were my challenges because at that time, people weren’t really writing stories that were centred around a young male lead.

What about the most challenging role you’ve portrayed? What was it, and how did you make it work?

At the end of the day, most of my roles were challenging in one way or another; I can’t say anyone was the most challenging because that would be doing a disservice to the other roles that I have played. But what I would like to shed light on in terms of difficulty level would be my role in the movie Breaded Life That role was challenging because of the fact that I had to play a child from two different backgrounds. The way the story was structured, I had to play a really rich, spoilt kid and also play an alternate character who was a poor guy abandoned by his family and had to live in the ghetto. So, the emotional rollercoaster I had to go back and forth from was a bit challenging. Also, putting myself into the reality of the boy who was abandoned by his family and no one else remembered him, he was basically going through the bottom. It was a bit tough for me, especially realising that’s a lot of people’s realities. It made me realise my privilege and thank God for where I am today cause, at some point in time, I had gone through that struggle.

Did you have any mentors or influential figures who guided you in the early stages of your career? How did their advice impact your development as an actor?

My biggest mentor has always been my sister, Dakore Egbuson-Akande. She has not only guided me in the past, but I am still getting her guidance even now, and I don’t think I am going to stop getting her guidance anytime soon. RMD(Richard Mofe Damijo) as well is also a huge mentor. There are a bunch of other people like Ramsey Noah and Jim Iyke those

What was it like growing up and having your sister as a popular actress already? How did that inspire you to go into acting? I grew up in a very entertainment-based family, musically, dance, acting, you know, the whole performance-inclined family. We would wake up to loud music in the house, everybody vibing, so we have always had that in the house. So Dakore going into acting and being successful only just gave me the hope and assurance that it’s something I could do since we are cut from the same cloth. Also, it was really nice to have her guide me and show me the dos and don’ts in the industry, considering that she went through entry-level and rose to superstardom. It’s not like we had any godfathers or any grand supporters in the industry, so I always knew that if she could do it, I could do it, and that has helped me through the beginning stages of my career.

What movies do you guys have together? Are we ever going to witness the star siblings on any project together? Yes. There’s Isoken, there is Fifty, the movie, there is also Fifty, the series. We also have one we just finished wrapping up last month, although I don’t know if I am at liberty to announce it, all I can tell you is that it’s a star-studded series and it has the Egbusons starring in it, most likely to be out this year.

What were some major learning experiences or lessons you gained during the early years of your career? How did these shape your approach to acting? I have learned a few lessons. One of the few that I would highlight is the fact that being able to play different characters and doing research as to the hows and the whys of the decisions my characters make has helped me to be less judgemental as a person and has made me more accommodative of people’s differences and peoples good and bad side. At the end of the day, we have a bad story that the world doesn’t get to see. It has also helped me become a kinder person cause many people are going through different things. Yeah, the characters I play are fictional, but still, it helps me realise that many people are going through many things that other people around them can’t see.

the “Character Bible” that most scripts would have, so I go through that and try to understand who it is that I am portraying. If it’s something I have experienced or I know someone who has experienced it, I tap into the minds of those people who have been in their shoes. Another important thing is trusting your director. Once you guys can paint a picture of what your character is meant to be before getting on set, then when you get on set, the movie makes itself.

Auditioning is a significant part of an actor’s life. How did you handle rejection in the early stages, and what kept you motivated to continue pursuing your dream? Rejection is part of the process as an actor. At some point in time, you might feel like you are right for a role, but the director’s vision for the producers might not really see you being in it, and it’s something you have to understand that you can’t be in every movie, and at the end of the day, you just have to keep moving forward. I have been blessed to have a career that has had a high level of consistency. There hasn’t really been a time that I was out of work, so I bless God for that. So what I do is that I focus on the positives cause there’s always something to be thankful for, and I pray that it remains so till I am old and grey.

How have you seen your approach to acting evolve from the beginning of your career to the present? Are there specific ways you get to make sure you can get any facial expressions right there on the spot? That’s the secret you are asking for. But at the end of the day, as an actor and with the years of experience that you have amassed, it is something that comes naturally to you. I am more natural as an actor; I like to allow things to come to me in the moment when I put myself in the situation that the character is supposed to be in. I have done the training and the self-work in the past, I just become the character. As long you can put yourself in the state of mind of the character, then you can portray the character with ease.

Reflecting on your early career, what would you consider one of your most significant milestones or achievements? How did it impact your trajectory in the industry?

“...being able to play different characters and doing research as to the hows and the whys of the decisions my characters make has helped me to be less judgemental as a person and has made me more accommodative of people’s differences and peoples good and bad side. ”

I have worked on different things and massive projects, most recently A Tribe Called Judah, which has become the most successful film out of Africa. That is a great one. Also being nominated and winning the AMVCA award for Best Actor for my role in Elevator Baby In the next edition, I was nominated for two categories: Best Actor in a Drama and Best Actor in a Comedy. So those are the kinds of things I look back to, and I smile cause even though I was having any kind of impostor syndrome in the beginning, that kind of gives me the assurance that I am doing something right. I won the first Future Awards, which was also important to me because it wasn’t a voting category and wasn’t gender-based. I just look back at it and smile.

Being a celebrity, it’s like everything you do is criticised, and there’s a negative side; how do you deal with criticisms and controversies?

How did you prepare yourself when given a particular character to portray? Surely, you have your way of visualising what that character is like and bringing it to life. Research and more research, that’s it for me. I do as much research as possible, and I study and get as much knowledge as I can. There’s something called

To be honest, being a human being, everything that you do is talked about and criticised on a level. It’s just that being a celebrity is almost microscopic because more people have eyes on you. I deal with it by focusing on the positives; not everyone would agree with you, regardless of what it is. I have come to understand that as long as the people who love me and support me continue to do so, then it’s fine, that’s what I like to focus on, the positive side of things, not dwelling on negatives, everyone has their opinion and it’s okay.

Now, let’s talk about the latest achievement. Can you tell us about your experience working on A Tribe called Judah?

My experience was fantastic; it was familyoriented. We sat together, we were happy together, and we all knew everything was a masterpiece just from reading the script. The funny thing is that I went to a festival in New Orleans, and I almost missed out on an opportunity to be a part of the film, but thank God and my ancestors and my angels, I was able to return early enough. I give a

big shout-out, and I am grateful to Funke Akindele, who gave me the opportunity and that role gave me a nomination in this year’s AMVCA awards.

How does it feel to be nominated in the Best Supporting Actor Category for your performance in A Tribe Called Judah? It feels great. I was nominated along with lots of fantastic actors. The recognition alone is a win for all of us, and at the end of the day, it just gives me the motivation to keep going higher and keep doing better. It’s nice to feel seen, and it’s nice to see that your contributions are being acknowledged, so yeah, that’s about it.

Did you expect A Tribe Called Judah movie to receive such critical acclaim and even an award nomination for Best Supporting Actor?

I expected it, I manifested it, we worked towards it in terms of marketing and promotions, and we also prayed. We already knew Funke Akindele broke her own movie records, and we knew this film was special just from reading the script and understanding how action-packed and emotional it

the other quarter was done by the casting cause Funke Akindele cast perfectly for different roles, and the rest was God’s Grace and the hard work we put into performing and promoting the movie.

How does this nomination of Best Supporting Actor compare to previous nominations and wins you’ve Every department is vital, and every nomination is important. It was really nice to be nominated for this role. It’s as important as every other nomination and win that I have gotten; I am happy I got it, and my role was acknowledged.

In what ways do you think your background and experiences influenced your portrayal of the character?

I wouldn’t say any personal experience could relate to the fact that my character was a kleptomaniac, but the characters being so close to their mom and the bond that they shared was likened to the relationship I and my siblings have with my mum. Also, the part where they lived, struggled, and operated from the trenches took me back to a part of my life where I lived in Ojuelegba, so I could relate to a lot of things like the mannerisms and behaviors that my siblings in the movie

What advice would you give those aspiring to follow in your footsteps as they embark on their own journeys in the filmmaking world?

I would say work hard, work on yourself, believe in yourself, and don’t take rejection

How about unforgettable moments? Are there any moments from the early days of your career or even present times that still stand out as particularly unforgettable or defining for you as an actor?

A time that stood out for me was when the Best Actor award for my role in Elevator was presented to me by my sister and mentor Dakore; that was a very special

I’m about to share something I found very spooky when it happened to me. Also, take this with a pinch of salt because I’ve been known to be a tad dramatic.

In December 2022, I got really sick to the point where I was scared for my life and thought I’d die. So once I got better, I decided to take painting classes because it’s something I’ve always wanted to do but never took seriously because I never prioritised it. I always felt like there was something else more important I could do with my time, which is also a conditioning that should be addressed, but perhaps later.

I started the classes, and on my first go, I wanted to paint a self-portrait. I was so happy about my new health and how I felt that I just really wanted to celebrate it. I also had short hair and wanted to commemorate the moment in my life with a painting of me from that era. So, on the 13th of February 2023, I finished my selfportrait. Yes, it has no eyes, and that’s also symbolic of something, but don’t worry; we’ll discuss it later.

I was so happy with myself.

That actual painting does not exist as a picture. I took inspiration from a photo I took when I was getting ready for a speaking event for Africa NXT, and because I love foliage and greenery, I visualised myself looking like that but surrounded by leaves, and the image in my head is what I painted.

captured a photo that exemplifies how life sometimes imitates art.

On the 16th of March 2023, I was invited to try out a new restaurant, so I went there, and it’s become one of my favourite places to eat in the Lekki Phase 1 area. It’s called The Terrace. I got there, ordered food, and while I was waiting for my meal to arrive, I decided to ask the waiter to take photos of me. We started taking the photos, but little did I know that the bartender was also taking photos of me on his phone from a different angle.

When my food was ready, the waiter brought it over to my table, and the bartender came over with my drink and showed me that he had taken some more photos of me on his phone. Then, he airdropped them on me. While I was scrolling through, I found a photo that looked very similar to the one I painted. Without me telling him, without me posing for it, he

That moment was so mind-blowing to me because he had no clue about my painting but was able to replicate it as a favour to me. And it confirms just how much vision matters. How you see yourself, how you talk to yourself or talk about yourself. As a man thinketh in his heart, so is he, and it’s the way you see yourself that eventually affects how others see you and how you see the world. Do you want to change your life? Start by changing how you see yourself and how you visualise your life to be, and a shift will happen; a change will come.

BEAUTY

ITCHING AFTER A SHOWER

3 Reasons Why it Happens And Tips to Manage it

WHAT CAUSES ITCHY SKIN AFTER A SHOWER?

Your skin may be itchy after taking a shower for several reasons, some more common than others.

XEROSIS CUTIS

Xerosis cutis is the medical term for abnormally dry skin. Long-term exposure to hot water can deplete your skin’s natural oils, leaving you with dry, irritated, and dehydrated skin. This can occasionally lead to post-shower itching, which is especially likely to occur on your legs and feet because those areas of your body are in constant contact with water.

SOAP SENSITIVITIES

It’s possible that while the soap cleans, it dries up your skin. After your shower, a harsh soap may cause persistent itching, even if there isn’t always a visible rash. Itching and irritation can also result from not thoroughly washing off the soap residue from your skin after a shower.

AQUAGENIC PRURITUS

Water on your skin can activate your neurological system if you have this illness. You consequently get itching after taking a bath or shower. It’s uncommon, and you probably already know if you have this ailment. Prolonged itching is a symptom of aquagenic pruritis that flares up after coming into touch with water, such as when you wash your hands or go swimming.

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE USE OF AN ANTI-ITCH CREAM

After a decent shower, you should feel renewed, revitalised, and clean, regardless of whether you choose a long, sumptuous rinse or one that is quick and easy. But itching after showering? Well, it’s not unusual to feel itchy after a shower. If, however, you regularly fear getting under the spray, fear not—there are plenty of ways to relieve the itching. Three causes of the itching are listed below, along with tips for keeping your daily rinse comfortable.

HOW TO MANAGE IT PAT DRY AND TOWELLING OFF

After taking a shower, rubbing your skin with a towel might cause your skin to become dehydrated. Avoid attempting to wipe off every speck of water from your skin. Instead, after washing off, pat dry your skin with a towel.

MOISTURISE YOUR SKIN WHILE IT’S STILL WET

Locking moisture into your skin barrier can be achieved by applying moisturiser when your skin is slightly damp. Invest in a hypoallergenic moisturiser without scent. If acne is a problem for you, think about using one that is “oilfree.” Chill your moisturiser before using it for an additional cooling effect.

SWITCH YOUR SOAPS

Perhaps it’s time to switch soaps if you frequently itch after showering but don’t have a rash. Seek a soap that contains gentle, hypoallergenic components. Moisturising soap has been discovered to help lessen the signs and symptoms of dry skin.

Creams that reduce irritation can help bind moisture to the skin and relieve itching caused by dry skin. Emollients such as Pramoxine Hydrochloride have also effectively reduced itchiness associated with dry skin. However, topical corticosteroids, which are over-the-counter medicines intended to relieve inflammation-related itching, typically do not relieve irritation resulting from dry skin.

CONSIDER ESSENTIAL OIL AS PART OF YOUR SHOWER ROUTINE

It is possible to treat or prevent itching with essential oils. Any essential oil you decide to use should be diluted. Applying the oil directly onto inflamed skin requires diluting it with a calming carrier oil, like jojoba or sweet almond oil. Rose geranium, tea tree, peppermint, and chamomile are all possible remedies for dry, itchy skin.

SEE A DERMATOLOGIST

Should your skin irritation persist or become irritable, consult your dermatologist to rule out any potential underlying medical conditions or allergic reactions. Trust the experts; they can identify the underlying cause of the problem and develop more focused alleviation measures.

CONCLUSION

It’s not unusual to feel itchy after a shower; this indicates that your skin barrier is weakened. There’s no need to punish yourself, and most of the time, just a little adjustments will provide you relief. It’s important to minimise the time you spend in the shower, rinse with warm (not hot!) water, wash your body gently, and moisturise immediately after. Doing this retains the moisture in your skin while it stays clean.

STEW RECIPES FOR A MEMORABLE SALLAH BON APPÉTIT

OFADA SAUCE

Ingredients

• Red bell pepper (Tatashe)

• Crushed chilli flakes

• Locust beans (Iru Woro)

• Salt

• Seasoning

• Palm kernel oil

• Onion

• Crayfish, and

• Assorted meats

Directions

• Start by washing, seasoning, and cooking the meat afterwards, set it aside.

• Cut your onions into pieces, rinse and wash the locust beans, remove the seeds from the red bell peppers, chop them, and arrange them on a baking pan. Drizzle with a little oil and bake for approximately 20

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Eid-el-Fitri is celebrated by Muslims worldwide to mark the end of the Ramadan fast, and the festival, like every other celebration, is always marked with celebratory meals. Whether you will be hosting a big crowd or a smaller affair, or maybe just having a nice time with your family during this holiday, you will most likely want to prepare a meal that your guests and family won’t forget in a hurry. Here is the secret: with the perfect stew, you can make your meal tasty and worthwhile. This article will show you three stew recipes for a memorable Sallah celebration.

CHICKEN AND VEGETABLE CURRY SAUCE

Ingredients

• Onion

• Bell pepper

• Peas

• Carrots

• Prawns

• Cornstarch

• Ginger

• Garlic

• Salt

• Chicken

• Seasoning cubes,

Directions

• Season your chicken, cook it, then set it aside.

• After adding vegetable oil to a pot, place it on the cooker and let it heat. Then, stir-fry the chopped onion, peas, carrots, ginger, and green pepper until fragrant.

minutes or until they start to get slightly toasted but not burned.

• When it’s done to your liking, transfer it to a blender with some chopped onion and blend.

• Place a pot in the fire; add palm oil and leave to bleach for about five minutes.

• While the oil is heated, gently add in the chopped onions. To the oil, add the mixed pepper, chili flakes, locust beans, and crayfish, and stir.

• Add the chopped mixed meat, salt, and seasoning to the stew after a few minutes and stir gently.

• After some minutes, serve your Ofada sauce with Ofada rice.

• Afterwards, add in your seasoned and cooked chicken, and make sure you sear it on every side until golden brown.

• Add two tablespoons of cornstarch to the sauce, whisk constantly until it thickens, then taste and adjust for seasoning.

• The sauce is ready. Serve with regular rice or basmati.

BEEF STEW

Ingredients

• Beef

• Vegetable or Sunflower oil

• Tomatoes

• Scotch bonnet (Ata Rodo)

• Long red pepper or Bell pepper (Tatashe)

• Onions

• Stock / bouillion cubes

Directions

• Blend your onion, tomatoes, bell peppers, and scotch bonnet to make the pepper mix.

• Transfer the mixed peppers to a saucepan, turn up the heat, and boil to evaporate any remaining water.

• Bring out your beef, and boil the beef with chopped onions, a stock cube, and salt; after that, grill or fry the cooked meat.

• Bring out your pot, then add your chopped onions and vegetable oil to the pot (if the beef was fried, use the vegetable oil from that process), sauté for three minutes, and then add the boiling pepper.

• Afterwards, add your salt, beef stock, and stock cubes, then let it cook.

• Then, add your fried or grilled meat. After adding it, give the stew another five to ten minutes to cook.

• Turn off the heat when the stew is done.

• Your beef stew is ready.

TRAVEL

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Unveiling Earth’s Beauty 7 Wonders of The Earth

Despite planet Earth’s growing concerns and worries, one thing that can not be overlooked is that our world is brimming with extraordinary beauty all around it. From the natural enchanting landscapes to the exotic man-made architectural feats we have accomplished, all these are testaments of wonders surrounding us. The seven wonders of the Earth are monuments that remind us of humanity’s creativity and nature’s blessings to our planet. So, let’s unveil the most recent and celebrated seven wonders of the Earth.

Petra (Jordan)

A world of wonder and mystery is most fitting to describe Petra. This is a realm carved from rose-res cliffs by the hands of ancient artisans. Dated back to 300 B.C., Petra is a renowned archaeological site in Jordan’s southwestern desert. Visitors get to explore narrow canyons as well as ancient temples and treasury.

Taj Mahal (India)

Machu Picchu (Peru)

Nicknamed the “Lost City,” Machu Picchu is a 15th-century sanctuary hidden amidst the peaks of the Andes Mountains. Located in the Eastern Cordillera of southern Peru, this heritage site is a stunning terraced field with intricate stone structures and breathtaking panoramic views, bound to leave you in awe of its elegance.

Chichen Itza (Mexico)

The jungles of the Yucatan Peninsula are home to the Chichen Itza. Known as El Castillo or Temple of Kukulcan, this site is a gigantic step of a pyramid that flourished from 600 A.D to the 1200s. Chichen Itza stands as a testament to the architectural and cultural achievements of the ancient Maya civilisation.

Roman Colosseum (Italy)

Rising proudly in the lively streets of Rome, the Colosseum stands as a symbol of the Splendor magnificence of ancient Rome. Constructed in 72 A.D. and opened in 80 A.D., the Colosseum hosted chariot races, gladiatorial battles, and dramatic spectacles.

Christ The Redeemer (Brazil)

An Art Deco statue of Jesus Christ in Brazil created by French-Polish sculptor Paul Landowski, Christ the Redeemer, symbolises the divinity of Jesus Christ and the blessings of the Brazilian people. Constructed between 1922 and 1931, it continues to appeal to Christians worldwide.

Great Wall of China (China)

Spanning over 13,000 miles and constructed over several centuries, the Great Wall of China stands as a symbol of China’s rich history, architectural prowess, and perseverance of its ancient civilisations.

The seven wonders remind us of beauty and the enduring legacy of humanity’s creativity, resilience, and innovation since the dawn of time. The best thing is that more beautiful monuments will be erected in every era to showcase more of our artistry as we continue to advance.

Nested on the banks of the Yamuna River in the city of Agra, the Taj Mahal enchants visitors with its ageless beauty and splendid craftsmanship. The Mughal Emperor built this UNESCO World Heritage site between I631 and 1648 to honour his beloved wife’s memory.

Attaining Career Success

Collaboration as A Determinant

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

The professional scene has always been known to be competitive, but despite this rivalry, successful people have found collaboration to be one of the important keys to attaining success in one’s field.

Effective collaboration and building strong networks with people from different career paths and individuals from the same field are strong factors in how far one goes in one’s career. So, in this career guide, we will explore the importance and benefits of collaboration in the professional world, be it at the beginning of one’s career or when looking to advance to a whole new level.

BUILDING BRIDGES

One thing that needs to be understood is that collaboration is more than just working on a project together because it’s necessary. It involves a willingness to utilise the collective resources of every individual involved to achieve a particular goal, which is one of the many important aspects of collaboration. This teamwork fosters relationships that transcend to more than professional levels, especially when one’s efficiency and personality appeal to others in the team.

INCREASED PRODUCTIVITY

When creative minds from different fields come together on a project, and each person brings their insights from their respective fields, productivity will most likely be at its peak. Collaboration fosters combined efforts and propulsion in production. With tasks and responsibilities assigned according to each person’s strength and area of expertise, teams accomplish more collectively and in less time than if work was done individually. This increased rate of productivity is a known benefit of collaboration.

SKILL DEVELOPMENT AND GROWTH

If you have a skill that’s become so good in a particular department, the next step should be to try it out by working with people in a different department. Collaboration is of major importance as it provides an opportunity to learn from colleagues and expand their skill sets. By working alongside peers with diverse backgrounds and expertise, individuals can acquire new knowledge and develop even more skills that are valuable for career advancement.

BOOST CREATIVITY AND INNOVATION

We all are aware of the saying: Iron sharpens iron. An extra benefit joint effort offers is the stimulation of creativity by providing a platform to brainstorm, experiment, and explore. By collaborating with workmates who offer different approaches, individuals can spark new ideas, refine concepts, and push the boundaries of innovation in their fields.

SUPPORT AND MENTORSHIP

Collaboration promotes a sense of community and belonging by providing professionals with a support system of peers, mentors, and advisors who can offer guidance, encouragement, and advice throughout their career journey. Getting insights from people at the levels you aspire to be can help you climb the professional ladder.

Our world today is a complex, interconnected one, and the professional aspect of it isn’t different. Collaboration is one major tool needed to navigate these twists and turns that are almost inevitable at different levels of one’s career, so do well to take advantage of it as much as you can.

BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

MOVIE REVIEW:

Monkey Man

When a well-known actor makes their directorial debut, that generally means that said actor will cast as many of their famous friends as possible for a movie involving lots of talking but not much moving of the camera. And sometimes, instead, it means a film like Dev Patel’s Monkey Man, a breathtakingly crafted, hyper-violent saga where the only name actors (outside of Asia) are Patel and Sharlto Copley.

Patel’s debut feature is already the subject of controversy: Universal bought the film from Netflix at a discount price, allegedly over the streamer’s hesitance to offend powerful political interests in India. But Netflix’s loss is definitely Universal’s gain — Monkey Man becomes more breathlessly thrilling as it goes along, with a shredded Patel turning in an impressive actionstar performance that’s brooding, intense, and unlike any of his film work to date. (If Liam Neeson’s success in Taken encouraged other 50-something actors to reinvent themselves as gun-toting badasses, perhaps Keanu Reeves’ work in the John Wick franchise will push more 30- and 40-something dramatic performers to get the 80s style macho-man film machine rolling again.)

Patel stars as an unnamed character whom we first see in underground fights (organised by sleazy promoter Copley), taking physical abuse from his opponents while wearing an ape mask. He’s haunted by flashbacks of childhood trauma — the film builds quite a bit of anticipation before revealing all — but he springs to life when he sees an opportunity to work for the nefarious Queenie (Ashwini Kalsekar), who runs a high-class den of vice that attracts the most powerful men in politics and religion. It’s there that he hopes to get his revenge on the men he sees as directly responsible for that childhood trauma: a corrupt police chief (the imposing Sikander Kher) and a despicable political power-broker who disguises himself as a spiritual leader (Madarand Deshpande). The hero’s quest will break him down and build him back up — there’s even

a revelatory drug-trip sequence, and along the way, he will benefit from the support of fellow outsiders, including Alfonso (Pitobash), a filthymouthed drug dealer and Neela (Adithi Kalkunte), one of Queenie’s trafficked sex workers.

Working with cinematographer Sharone Meir (Whiplash, Silent Night) and a trio of editors, Patel turns each of Monkey Man’s many fight sequences into a dazzling blend of choreography, sweeping and swooping camera moves; that’s a combo that, in far too many films, leads only to visual chaos, but the team here crafts these moments with such assurance and precision that the results deliver cinematic adrenaline. Also deserving of praise are the sound designers who add the crunches and squishes that bring additional immediacy to the physical combat on display; between the sounds and the cutting, several of the fights end in moments that will make many viewers audibly flinch. Add to this a screenplay that specifically targets those in power who would exploit and abuse the masses below the poverty line, and you get that rare action film that’s not afraid of ideas. (Even if those very ideas gave Netflix cold feet.) That desire to explore issues of class and power rescues Monkey Man from feeling familiar, whether it’s a big brawl taking place in a men’s room (watch out for that aquarium!) that calls to mind Mission: Impossible – Fallout, or the plot itself, with the increasingly cascading stakes feeling like a series of video-game–inspired boss battles. What Patel has crafted delivers both kinetic action and realworld relevance, an exceedingly rare combination.

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WATCH OF THE WEEK

ALL THE LIGHT WE CANNOT SEE

Some books should stay on the page.

Anthony Doerr’s All the Light We Cannot See was published in 2014 to critical and commercial success, winning the coveted Pulitzer Prize for fiction. It tells an introspective, morally complex, and lyrical story about German-occupied France near the end of World War II.

Unfortunately, much is lost in translation when Light makes the jump to Netflix for a four-episode miniseries. However transcendent the book, the show is a flaccid, fancy failure, with beautiful production values glossing over poor storytelling and acting. When it tries to be an action-packed war movie, it looks silly; when it tries for quiet tragedy, it fails to trigger any emotion. And most odiously, the story aims for moral grey areas but jumps all the way to sympathizing with a Nazi. Light is mostly just shallow, a surface-level World War II cliché.

Light takes place in 1944, as American forces are on the verge of liberating France from the Nazi occupation. Young, blind and on her own amid the horrors of war, Marie-Laure LeBlanc (newcomer Aria Mia Loberti, better than her material) determinedly broadcasts hopeful messages to her French and Allied compatriots on her radio from the seaside village of SaintMalo as the Americans bomb. Elsewhere in the ruined town, German radio operator Werner Pfenner (Louis Hofmann) listens but doesn’t rat her out to his Nazi commanders. He develops affection for her and kills to protect her (you see, he’s the good Nazi, while the rest are cartoon villains).

Through a series of flashbacks, we learn that Marie and her father, Daniel (Mark Ruffalo), fled Paris when the Nazis invaded because Daniel was in charge of the precious stones at a Paris museum (or something, it’s never made clear). He hides most of the priceless gems, but takes one giant ‒ and rumoured to be cursed ‒ diamond

with them. The pair make their way to Saint-Malo to shelter with Daniel’s uncle Etienne (Hugh Laurie), a World War I veteran housebound due to his post-traumatic stress disorder. But a Nazi gem hunter isn’t far behind. Werner gets a backstory, too: He’s an orphan with an uncanny ability to operate and repair radios who is eventually conscripted and trained

to locate broadcast signals of Nazi enemies.

What Light lacks more than anything is subtlety. At one laughable moment, Etienne, a leader in the local French Resistance, shouts covert instructions for Marie to broadcast to the Allies while standing in the street. (The best spies shout their secrets in the middle of the road, right?) At another point, a character hugs a radio, the narrative’s symbol of freedom and hope. They speak English with the accents of their nationality, which are often distracting and verging on caricature. Ruffalo’s French accent is comedic at best and unintelligible at worst, but perhaps he should at least be commended for trying − Laurie sounds like Gregory House walked out of the hospital and into the south of France.

Light fails at its most fundamental level with Werner. The “One Good Nazi” trope has been done and redone in TV and films, and it is no longer a helpful storytelling tool; it just makes excuses for great evils. While morality is never black and white, we don’t need more stories that show shades of grey by casting a soft glow on Nazi soldiers.

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Dinner Party; Terrace Martin; Robert Glasper; Kamasi

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Thee Sacred Souls - Easier Said Than Done

Jungle; Bas - Pretty Little Thing

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Jitwam - Opendoors

Logic; Seth MacFarlane; Redman; DJ Statik Selektah - Self Medication