igerian women have broken barriers and changed the narrative that leadership and politics are exclusive to men. In many political and public service positions today, more women are achieving success and taking the lead. Outside the titles, these women are proving to the world that they are capable, dedicated, and full of purpose. They push through challenges and lead with strength, passion, and a deep sense of responsibility. One such woman is Honourable Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim. She is a strong voice in the political space who leads with purpose and impact. Hon. Sulaiman-Ibrahim has served in different leadership roles, including her time as the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI). Today, she is the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, where she champions women’s and children’s rights across Nigeria.
Read her interview on pages 8 through 10.
Many people think a brooch is outdated, but it is a classic fashion accessory that can wake up an ensemble. In our fashion pages, we show you how you can wear a brooch to make it stylish. That’s on pages 4 and 5.
Skin allergies are pretty common and may result in itching, swelling, rashes or blisters. They can be either mild, in which case a temporary reaction, or in some cases severe, which could lead to a longlasting reaction. This week’s beauty page explores common skin allergies and how they affect the skin. Scroll to page 12 for this.
As we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus Christ, let us remember to give to the poor at this time. Happy Easter to our dearest readers.
Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim Politics. Passion. Public Service
Everything You Need to Know About Skin Allergies I is for Introspection
Adesina @bolugramm - Contributing Writer
Boluwatife Adesina is a media writer and the helmer of the Downtown Review page. He’s probably in a cinema near you.
Dorcas Akintoye @mila_dfa_ - Contributing Writer
Dorcas Akintoye is a dedicated writer with more than 2 years prolific experience in writing articles ranging from food, entertainment, fashion and beauty. She has a National Diploma in Mass Communication from Kwara State Polytechnic, Ilorin. She loves writing, listening to music and playing scrabble. She is a highly-skilled, enthusiastic, selfmotivated professional writer.
Sally Chiwuzie @unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind
- Contributing Writer
Sally Chiwuzie is a non-practising barrister who owns the brand #Unshakable. She is the author of Silent Symphonies, a fictional love story, and the creator of the podcast Chronicles of #Unshakable Truths.
Boluwatife
STYLISH WAYS TO WEAR A BROOCH
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
One of the most underrated fashion accessories is a brooch. Although many people believe it to be outdated, it is a classic and adaptable piece that can improve any ensemble. A brooch can easily help you establish a style that is either classic and elegant or modern and edgy. Here are six bold ways to confidently wear a brooch if you’re searching for fashionable ways to rock this accessory.
1.
ON THE LAPEL OF A BLAZER
Holding a brooch on the lapel of a blazer is one of the most common ways to wear it. This gives your ensemble a refined touch, making it ideal for formal occasions, meetings, and work. Wearing a striking brooch on a plain-coloured blazer can create a statement. If your blazer includes patterns, pick a modest yet fashionable brooch that goes well with the pattern. This simple addition can transform your look from ordinary to effortlessly chic.
2.
ON A DRESS OR BLOUSE
Adding a brooch to a dress or blouse is an easy way to make your outfit more stylish. You can pin it at the centre of your neckline, on the side of your shoulder, or even at the waistline for a cinched effect. If your outfit feels too plain, a decorative brooch can be the perfect touch of glamour. A sparkly brooch adds a hint of luxury for evening outfits, while a floral or vintage brooch works well for a more relaxed daytime look.
ON A HANDBAG
A brooch isn’t just for clothes; you may also use it to adorn your purse. A brooch can give a simple purse a more sophisticated and opulent appearance. It can be pinned to the front, the area close to the handle, or even the strap. This is a fantastic method to change the appearance of your bag without purchasing a new one. If you love DIY fashion, mixing and matching different brooches on your handbag can create a fun and personalised style.
ON A SCARF
Although many choose scarves as their go-to accessory, they are elevated when paired with a brooch. A brooch is a beautiful way to hold your scarf in place instead of just wrapping it around your neck. This will keep the scarf from slipping and give your outfit a distinctive and stylish touch.
3. 4.
ON A HAT OR BERET
If you enjoy donning hats, a brooch is the ideal way to elevate your look. A hat or beret looks instantly more stylish and unique when a brooch is pinned to the side. This looks great with sunhats, beanies, fedoras, and other hat styles. To guarantee a matched look, pick a brooch that goes well with the hue and material of your hat. This little detail can significantly alter how fashionable and distinctive your ensemble looks.
CONCLUSION
ON YOUR HAIR OR HEADBAND 6.
Brooches can also be worn as fashionable hairpieces. Pin a brooch onto a headband or straight onto your hair to add sparkle and uniqueness to your hairdo. This works particularly well for big events where you want to stand out, like weddings, dinners, or parties.
A brooch is a small but powerful accessory that instantly upgrades your fashion game. Whether you wear it on a blazer, dress, scarf, hat, handbag, or even in your hair, it adds a unique touch to your outfit. The best part is that brooches come in various designs, so you can always find one that suits your personal style. Don’t let this classic accessory go unnoticed; start experimenting with these stylish ways to wear a brooch and make a bold fashion statement.
SALLY CHIWUZIE
@unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind
I IS FOR INTROSPECTION
(Because before judgment… there’s often a quiet reckoning.)
Whenwe restarted our #Unshakable Alphabet series from the beginning, we promised you that ‘I’ would be a story. Not a quote, not a concept — but a real story, from real life, told with the honesty it demands.
Last week, in ‘H is for Healing’, we cracked open the door to transformation.
This week, we were tempted to race straight into J — to update you on the aftermath of the viral cat inheritance saga (and trust us, it gets even more bizarre). But before we get to that delicious mess, we owe ‘I’ its moment.
Because while the world was debating who deserved the estate, while hashtags flew and the neighbour’s cat soaked in accidental fame — two women, deeply connected by family, found themselves at war.
And neither of them was entirely wrong.
The Cousin: Conflicted And Still Furious
She spent months planning the party. It wasn’t just logistics — it was love. A milestone celebration for her son and her husband. A coming together of generations. A statement of joy.
And then came the wedding date bombshell. She was blindsided. The 88-year-old matriarch—her motherin-law—had knowingly chosen that exact date and refused to budge. It felt like sabotage.
So, the cousin drew a line. She didn’t attend the wedding. Her absence was a protest, a boundary, a signal that she mattered too.
But the night after the groom died — just two weeks later — the house felt quieter than usual. Her son’s voice echoed less. Her husband barely touched his food.
She lay awake thinking:
‘Did I make a point… or did I miss a moment I can never get back?’ She still believes she was justified. But sometimes, even justified anger leaves a bruise.
The Widow: Tired of Explaining Herself She said yes to the proposal after 40 years of estrangement. People whispered, judged, speculated. They called her desperate. Foolish. But she knew what loneliness tastes like — bitter, long, slow. And when her ex-husband asked her to grow old with him, something in her thawed. She didn’t ask for a fairytale. She just wanted comfort. Familiarity. A hand to hold at 2 a.m. when the world felt cruel.
The wedding date wasn’t a power move — not in her mind. She simply didn’t want to wait six more weeks. She’d waited four decades already. And now? He’s gone.
The house is quiet. And her daughterin-law hasn’t spoken to her since. She replays every conversation in her head. Wonders if she was selfish. Wonders if she should’ve compromised.
But then again, hadn’t she done enough compromising in her lifetime already?
Two Women. One Family. Zero Resolution
They haven’t spoken.
Each tells her own version of the story with conviction. And each version sounds true — because it is, to the woman who lived it.
This is the uncomfortable power of introspection: It doesn’t always lead to answers.
But it does peel back the layers — of pain, pride, and perception. It reveals the part we played, not just what was done to us.
The #Unshakable truth?
Before judgment comes introspection. Before resolution comes honesty — the kind we whisper to ourselves in the dark.
And maybe, just maybe, before closure… comes F.
You remember F is for Forgiveness, don’t you?
If not, they both might want to start there.
Because while they are different women with different stories, what they share is this: an ache to be understood.
And perhaps… the willingness to begin again.
Next up: J is for Judgment
(The cat story continues. And yes — it somehow gets wilder.)
‘See’ you next week. #Unshakable
HON. IMAAN SULAIMAN-IBRAHIM
Politics ● Passion ● Public Service
Over the years, Nigerian women have been able to break barriers and even change the narrative that leadership and politics are exclusive to men.
In many political and public service positions today, we see more women achieving success and taking the lead. But beyond the titles, these women are showing the world that they are capable, dedicated, and full of purpose. They are making a real impact, pushing through challenges, and leading with strength, passion, and a deep sense of responsibility.
One of such women is Hon. Imaan SulaimanIbrahim. She is a strong voice in the political space who continues to lead with purpose and impact. Hon. Imaan has served in different leadership roles, including her time as the Director-General of the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking in Persons (NAPTIP) and Federal Commissioner of the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI). Today, she is the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, where she champions the rights of women and children across Nigeria. Through her years in public service, she has stayed focused on building systems that work, creating lasting change, and serving with passion and integrity.
In this interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Executive Editor, Onah Nwachukwu, Hon. Imaan Sulaiman-Ibrahim discusses her journey into politics, her passion for service, the challenges of leadership, and her vision for Nigerian women. She opens up about her experiences, lessons learned, and why she believes women must continue to show up, speak up, and lead with courage.
Your career has spanned over two decades across humanitarian work, conflict resolution, and governance. What pivotal moment or experience made you go into public service full-time?
The defining moment for me came during a deeply personal crisis. I was in the process of pursuing a PhD at Oxford University — a longcherished dream — but my son suddenly fell critically ill and required major surgery in London. While in the hospital, I witnessed firsthand what quality healthcare, compassion, and public infrastructure can achieve. As I stood beside his hospital bed, I made a vow: to return to Nigeria and serve so that every Nigerian child and mother could one day have access to the same dignity and care. That experience ignited an irreversible passion to pursue public service— not as a career but as a calling. Since then, every step I have taken has been driven by a deep resolve to create systems that serve people with empathy, justice, and excellence.
Now, as the Minister of Women Affairs, what are the key focus areas you’re championing to improve the lives of women and children in Nigeria?
“We are reviewing existing gender policies and updating them in line with emerging global standards. We are also working with State Governments and the Budget Office and Ministry of Finance to ensure gender-responsive budgeting is embedded across all sectors.”
You’ve led several national agencies, including NAPTIP and the Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons. What would you say has been your most challenging role so far, and why?
Every role I’ve held has come with unique complexities, but leading the National Commission for Refugees, Migrants, and Internally Displaced Persons (NCFRMI) was perhaps the most challenging due to the sheer scale and multidimensionality of the crises. Managing over two million Persons of Concern in the context of protracted displacement, insecurity, and climate shocks demanded not just administrative competence but emotional endurance and policy agility. The absence of a legal framework that reflected emerging realities had long hampered the Commission’s effectiveness. Driving the passage of the NCFRMI Act after over 14 failed attempts was a significant milestone. It required navigating complex political terrain, coordinating stakeholders, and advocating tirelessly. But it taught me that systemic change is possible, even in the face of seemingly immovable barriers.
Having contributed to attracting over $1 billion in investments through the Nasarawa State Investment Council, what are your thoughts on how economic development intersects with social justice?
I believe economic development and social justice are two sides of the same coin. You cannot achieve inclusive growth without addressing the structural inequalities that exclude women, youth, and marginalised communities from participating in and benefiting from the economy. During my time on the Nasarawa State Investment and Economic Advisory Council, our focus was not just on attracting capital, but on ensuring that investments were socially sustainable—generating jobs, empowering local communities, and strengthening public infrastructure. Economic development must be people-centred. It must translate into better schools, safer environments, and equitable opportunities. When we embed social justice into our economic frameworks, we build a more stable, just, and resilient society.
As the Honourable Minister of Women Affairs, my work is guided by five strategic pillars that form the foundation of our efforts to improve the lives of women and children across Nigeria. First, we are strengthening policy and legal frameworks to ensure that gender and child protection laws are not only comprehensive but also enforceable. This includes the ongoing review of the Child Rights Act and support for amendments to the VAPP Act. Second, we are driving institutional strengthening by equipping the Ministry and state-level gender institutions with the tools, capacity, and systems needed to deliver on their mandates effectively. Third, we are scaling up advocacy and public awareness to challenge harmful social norms, mobilise stakeholder commitment, and reposition gender equality as a national development priority. Fourth, we are investing in women’s protection and economic empowerment, particularly through our flagship 10 Million Women Empowerment Programme, which is expanding access to finance, skills, and livelihoods. Finally, we are prioritising child protection and development by promoting inclusive access to education, healthcare, nutrition, and social services—ensuring that every Nigerian child has the opportunity to thrive in a safe and supportive environment.
What innovative policies or programs should Nigerians expect under your leadership in the Ministry of Women Affairs, particularly for grassroots women?
Space and time will certainly limit how much I can share here, because we are doing so much to reach all categories of women—those engaged in the blue, green, extractive, and creative economies—across rural, urban, and peri-urban communities. Our goal is to ensure that no woman is left behind, regardless of her location or vocation. One of our flagship innovations is the Happy Women Platform - a dynamic, one-stop hub that connects women directly to opportunities from the government, donors, private sector partners, and NGOs. Through this platform, women will access skills development, funding, essential services, and, most importantly, market linkages for their goods and services. It will serve as both a digital and community-based tool for accelerating inclusion and economic
participation. We are also scaling up the Nigeria for Women Project, which currently targets over 4.7 million women, by deepening its reach, increasing access to finance, and building stronger cooperatives and value chain linkages. In addition, we are working to transition vulnerable households to clean cooking solutions, recognising that energy poverty and indoor pollution disproportionately affect women and girls. We are leading efforts to end period poverty, ensuring that menstrual hygiene products are accessible and affordable, especially for adolescent girls in underserved areas. Another transformative initiative is our national nutrition programme, beginning with the creation of a dedicated Department of Nutrition within the Ministry to champion improved dietary health for women and children. We’re also collaborating with the health sector to strengthen access to maternal and child healthcare services and reduce preventable deaths. Also, we are working with partners to establish and operationalise Sexual Assault Referral Centres (SARCs) across the country to ensure that survivors of gender-based violence receive comprehensive medical, legal, and psychosocial support. These interventions, amongst others, are being delivered to systematically dismantle the barriers that have long held grassroots women back and usher them into a future of dignity, productivity, and resilience.
“My background in migration governance and security has been instrumental in designing context-sensitive, conflict-
aware interventions.
Given your track record in policy reform, how do you plan to institutionalise gender equity and protection for vulnerable populations at a national level? Institutionalisation begins with policy coherence, legal reform, and capacity building. We are reviewing existing gender policies and updating them in line with emerging global standards. We are also working with State Governments and the Budget Office and Ministry of Finance to ensure gender-responsive budgeting is embedded across all sectors. Another key strategy is the mainstreaming of gender across national development frameworks, including the National Development Plan and sectoral blueprints. We are training focal points in all MDAs, building statelevel gender machinery, and strengthening the Nigeria Gender Database to guide evidence-based planning. At the community level, we are rolling out community action plans for gender equity, aligned with traditional and religious leadership. Institutionalisation is not a one-off effort; it is a longterm process of changing systems, norms, and cultures. And we are fully committed to that process.
We
know that women and children bear the brunt of conflict— whether as displaced persons, victims of violence, or economic dependents.”
How are you leveraging your background in security, migration, and conflict resolution to shape your current initiatives for women and children, especially in conflict-prone zones?
My background in migration governance and security has been instrumental in designing contextsensitive, conflictaware interventions. We know that women and children bear the brunt of conflict— whether as displaced persons, victims of violence, or economic dependents. We are integrating protection principles into all our
programmes to ensure that humanitarian responses are gender-responsive, that displaced women have access to livelihoods, and that girls in camps can return to school. I’m also using my networks within the security and humanitarian architecture to push for better coordination between agencies to ensure that gender considerations are not an afterthought, but a front-line priority. Furthermore, we are advocating for Women, Peace and Security (WPS) frameworks to be localised, including the operationalisation of the National Action Plan on UNSCR 1325 across more states. Security is not just about the absence of conflict, but also about creating systems where women and children can live free from fear and want.
You made history as the first female Minister of Police Affairs. What unique challenges have you faced as a woman in traditionally male-dominated sectors like security and policing?
The biggest challenge was confronting entrenched patriarchal norms that questioned a woman’s authority in security matters. There were moments of overt scepticism, even resistance. But I understood that I had a responsibility not just to perform, but to prove that leadership is not gendered, but about competence and courage. By anchoring reforms on community-based policing, technologydriven systems, and strategic planning, we delivered tangible results in record time, including a historic increase in budgetary allocation. These achievements dismantled doubt and earned respect. My advocacy also led to the appointment of the First Female Force Secretary, which has further institutionalised gender inclusion at the highest levels of police leadership. It marked a turning point in representation as well as in shaping a culture where competence, not gender, defines authority. Let me say that my leadership in that role affirmed a key lesson: when women lead in security, the conversation shifts from brute force to smart, inclusive, and sustainable safety solutions.
What do you think are the biggest barriers preventing more Nigerian women from entering politics and leadership, and how can we begin to dismantle them?
Barriers include sociocultural norms, financial exclusion, violence and intimidation, and the absence of supportive legal frameworks such as gender quotas. We cannot wish these away; we must confront them with policy, advocacy, and collective will. We need to incentivise political parties to adopt affirmative action. We must protect female candidates from electoral violence. We must ensure access to campaign finance and create mentorship pipelines. Most importantly, we must amplify the visibility of women leaders across sectors because representation breeds aspiration. As more women rise, the path becomes less lonely. Our role is to hold the ladder for those coming behind us.
You’ve shown that leadership is not just about holding office but about impact. What advice would you give young women aspiring to lead in public service?
Lead with purpose, preparation, and persistence. Public service is not for applause but
for impact. Let your values be your compass, and your competence be your currency. Surround yourself with mentors, stay grounded in your community, and don’t be afraid to take bold, unpopular decisions when necessary. Your gender is not a limitation but a superpower. Use it to lead with empathy, strategy, and strength. And above all, remember that leadership is about lifting others. As you rise, reach out to others.
What’s a typical day like for Honourable Imaan? How do you stay grounded amidst the demands of public life?
No two days are the same. My mornings begin early with prayer, reflection, and a review of my agenda. From policy briefings to stakeholder meetings, field visits to legislative engagements, the days are packed. But I make time each day to connect with the people we serve through stories, feedback, or community engagements.
That’s what grounds me. My children remind me why I serve. My faith gives me strength. And my team keeps me aligned with the bigger picture. My balance is not perfect, but I have learnt to prioritise what matters most at each moment.
From all your accomplishments so far, which one are you personally most proud of, and why does it hold special meaning to you?
While I am proud of many milestones, the passage of the NCFRMI Act stands out. For over 14 years, progress could not be
made, symbolic of our national inertia on displacement issues. Getting it passed into law required grit, negotiation, and relentless advocacy. It holds special meaning because it wasn’t just a policy win but a systemic breakthrough. It gave legal identity to millions of displaced Nigerians and laid the foundation for durable solutions. It reminds me every day that persistence pays, that institutions can evolve, and that when we fight for the invisible, we make them visible. That is the essence of public service.
1.
SKIN ALLERGIES EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
Skin allergies are common reactions that happen when an allergen comes into contact with the skin. These reactions can result in rashes, blisters, swelling, and itching. Allergies can vary from mild and temporary to severe and long-lasting. Understanding their causes can help prevent and manage skin allergies. This article will explore four common types of skin allergies, their causes, and how they affect the skin.
3
CONTACT DERMATITIS HIVES
Among skin allergies, contact dermatitis is one of the most common. It occurs when something touches the skin and causes a reaction. Chemicals in skincare products, soaps, detergents, and fragrances are examples of irritants that might trigger this reaction. Additionally, it may be brought on by latex, nickel (found in jewellery), or specific plants like poison ivy. Individuals with this allergy may experience skin swelling, redness, itching, and even blisters when they touch the trigger. Usually, the symptoms show up a few hours or days after contact. The best defence against contact dermatitis is hypoallergenic skin care products and avoiding recognised triggers.
2.
ECZEMA
Eczema, sometimes referred to as atopic dermatitis, is a long-term skin disorder that results in dry, irritated, and inflamed skin. It is often linked to genetics and is common in people with a family history of allergies, asthma, or hay fever. Some fabrics, harsh soaps, pollen, dust mites, and pet dander are among the allergens that can cause this condition. Dry, scaly skin areas that bleed and become infected if scratched excessively are signs of eczema. Itching can be so bad that it interferes with sleep and concentration. Avoiding triggers, using medicinal creams as directed by a physician, and keeping the skin hydrated are all crucial for managing eczema.
CONCLUSION
Red, raised, and itchy welts that suddenly appear on the skin are called hives or urticaria. They can be brought on by insect bites, drugs, severe weather, or allergic reactions to specific foods (such as nuts, eggs, and shellfish). Hives often last a few hours or days before going away and can develop anywhere on the body. In extreme situations, they may result in throat swelling, making breathing difficult and requiring prompt medical intervention. Avoiding well-known allergies, taking antihistamines, and even taking prescription drugs to stop outbreaks are all part of managing hives.
4.
PSORIASIS
Psoriasis is an autoimmune skin disorder that results in red, scaly, and sometimes painful, itchy areas caused by the skin cells multiplying too quickly. Although allergens are not necessarily the cause, stress, infections, cold weather, and certain drugs can worsen the condition. The scalp, elbows, knees, and lower back are frequently the affected areas in the body. In contrast to other allergies brought on by direct contact, psoriasis is brought on by an overactive immune system that unintentionally attacks healthy skin cells. While there isn’t a permanent solution, prescription medications, moisturising products, and phototherapy (light therapy) can help control symptoms and avoid flare-ups.
Some skin allergies might interfere with day-to-day functioning and cause discomfort. Some reactions need to be properly managed and treated by a doctor, while others are mild and disappear on their own. Identifying triggers, utilising gentle skincare products, and maintaining hydration are the best ways to avoid skin allergies. Consultation with a dermatologist is necessary for an accurate diagnosis and therapy if symptoms intensify or continue.
Walking in His Footsteps Holy Sites to Visit
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Easter is the most sacred time of the year, marking the death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. And what better way to engage with the true essence of Easter than by visiting the places where Jesus lived, taught, died, and rose again?
As the world welcomes the Easter season, a period of renewal, reflection, and reverence, many travellers are swapping beach getaways and spring festivals for something more spiritually enriching: pilgrimages to the places where the Easter story unfolded. There’s something deeply moving about standing on the ground where Jesus once walked, taught, prayed, and ultimately fulfilled His divine mission.
For Christians, it’s more than travel—it’s a souldeep journey into the heart of faith.
If you’re seeking a destination that nurtures your spirit as much as your sense of adventure, here are five powerful holy sites to visit this Easter season. Each one offers a unique chapter in the story of Christ, inviting you to celebrate Easter and experience it.
This church was built on the site of Jesus’ crucifixion and burial. Located in Jerusalem’s Old City, the Church of the Holy Sepulchre is a place of profound reflection, especially during Easter when global pilgrims gather for candle-lit processions and sacred rites. It’s the emotional heartbeat of Christian faith.
Garden of Gethsemane –Mount of Olives, Israel
Here, Jesus spent His final moments in prayer before being arrested. The garden, still dotted with ancient olive trees, offers a peaceful space to meditate and reflect. Located at the foot of the Mount of Olives, it invites visitors to connect deeply with the sorrow and serenity of Christ’s last night.
Known as the “Way of the Cross,” this historic route follows Jesus’ journey from condemnation to crucifixion. Pilgrims walk the path, stopping at the 14 Stations of the Cross. The experience becomes even more vivid and symbolic during Holy Week, turning the city into a living scripture.
Though not directly linked to the Easter narrative, the Church of the Nativity—marking Jesus’ birthplace—reminds pilgrims of the full arc of His journey: from humble beginning to triumphant resurrection. Visiting Bethlehem during the Easter season carries special weight, bringing the story full circle.
While not a site of His death or resurrection, the Sea of Galilee was central to Jesus’ ministry. He walked on its waters, calmed its storm, and taught by its shores. An Easter boat ride or lakeside visit offers a tranquil spiritual retreat, connecting believers to His miracles and teachings.
This Easter, trade routine for revelation. These holy sites offer more than history; they invite transformation. You’ll find yourself remembering the Easter story and living it. Let your feet follow in the footsteps of faith. Whether you’re planning to travel now or someday, one thing is certain: walking in His footsteps is a journey your soul will never forget.
Church of The Holy Sepulchre – Jerusalem, Israel
Via Dolorosa – Jerusalem, Israel
Church of The Nativity – Bethlehem, West Bank
Sea of Galilee – Northern Israel
EGG-CELLENT CHOICE
Fun Easter Recipes Beyond Boiling
BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE
Easter and eggs is an iconic duo that dates back centuries. From the symbolic meanings of new life to vibrant egg hunts and table centrepieces, eggs are a big part of the holiday. But how about giving them a gourmet upgrade this Easter instead of boiling eggs just to paint them or toss them into salads? Eggs are one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. Whether scrambled, poached, whipped, or baked, they can be transformed into elegant, satisfying dishes that deserve a spot on your Easter table. These egg-centric recipes are flavourful, visually stunning, and surprisingly easy to prepare— perfect for elevating your brunch, lunch, or dinner. So, crack a few, and let’s dive into five Easter-worthy egg dishes that go far beyond the usual.
Shakshuka (North African Poached Eggs in Tomato Sauce)
This dish is a brunch classic in the Mediterranean and North Africa. Eggs are poached in a vibrant, spiced tomato sauce made with garlic, bell peppers, paprika, and cumin. It’s served hot, straight from the pan, with crusty bread to mop up every last bite. Not only does it look impressive, but the flavours are bold and comforting—perfect for a cosy Easter morning.
Deviled Eggs With a Gourmet Twist
Forget basic mayo-and-mustard deviled eggs. Elevate this appetizer with exciting fillings like smoked salmon and cream cheese, beet-infused hummus, or truffle oil and chives. Pipe the mixtures in for a sleek presentation and top with microgreens, paprika dust, or crispy shallots for texture. They’re an elegant finger food that adds instant class to your Easter spread.
Herbed French Omelette With Goat Cheese
The French omelette is delicate, soft, and oh-so-satisfying. Unlike a typically folded omelette, this is cooked slowly over low heat and gently rolled into a smooth cylinder. Add finely chopped herbs like chives, parsley, or tarragon, and melt some goat cheese for creamy, earthy richness. It’s a restaurantstyle brunch in your kitchen.
Egg Curry (Indian- Inspired Flavor Bomb)
If you want something hearty, unique, and packed with spice, egg curry is the way to go. Hard-boiled eggs are simmered in a fragrant curry sauce made with tomatoes, garlic, onions, ginger, and warming spices like turmeric and garam masala. Served over rice or with naan, it’s a bold Easter dish that breaks away from the traditional.
Mini Egg Frittatas (Brunch in a Bite)
These individual egg bakes are made in muffin tins and are ideal for serving guests or enjoying on the go. Simply whisk eggs with milk and fold in ingredients like chopped vegetables, herbs, cheese, or cooked sausage. Pour into greased tins and bake until puffed and golden. Not only are they adorable, but they’re versatile and fuss-free.
This Easter, don’t just paint your eggs—elevate them. These recipes prove that eggs can be elegant, exciting, and the star of your holiday table. Whether you’re planning a brunch buffet or an intimate dinner, these gourmet takes will bring joy to your taste buds and style to your celebration. After all, eggs may be humble—but with a little imagination, they can be egg-ceptional.
KITCHEN HEAT
BY DORCAS AKINTOYE
I’ve had sex almost everywhere: on balconies, in a car, in a pool once, but never in a kitchen. I don’t know why. Maybe because it always felt like sacred ground, a place for food, not lust. Not until that Friday night did the kitchen stop being a safe zone.
I’d been restless all day. I couldn’t concentrate, couldn’t eat properly. There was this heat inside me I couldn’t shake off. My skin felt tight. My mind was filled with thoughts that made me cross my legs and bite my lip. I had been fantasising for days, random flashes of bodies, hands, heat, lips, and the sound of skin on skin. I needed a release. I needed something.
Then I remembered, Gabriel was coming over. I knew that night was not a good time to have him around, but it was too late to cancel on him.
We’d talked earlier in the week, joked around during a drinking game, and I’d lost. The punishment? I had to cook him pasta on Friday. That was the plan. Cooking and chilling. Nothing more. We were friends, after all. Well, kind of. We’d made out once, drunk and lost in the moment, but I shut it down after that. I told him we should stay friends.
I heard a knock on the door, and I knew it was him. I opened the door to see Gabriel, arms full of tomatoes, peppers, pasta, and a bottle of red wine tucked under his elbow. We moved to the kitchen. He placed the ingredients on the counter while I set up
the stove. We chatted, joked, and touched. I laughed a little too loudly. Swallowed too hard. My body felt like it was humming. My nipples tightened under my shirt, and it was then I realised that I wasn’t okay. I was horny as hell. Trying to shake it off, I stepped away from him. “Let me just start the pasta,” I said, turning my back to him.
I was stirring the sauce, trying to focus on anything but the throbbing between my thighs when I heard him behind me. He was Close. Too close.
“You good?” he asked softly, his voice rough. “I’m fine,” I said quickly, but even I didn’t believe it.
I could feel him behind me.
I turned around, and that’s when I saw it. The bulge in his pants. Thick and hard, straining against the fabric.
“Do you… Is that a hard-on?” I asked, breathless.
He pressed his finger gently against my lips, silencing me. “Shh,” he whispered. “I know you want this too.”, he continued. Then he kissed me.
His lips were warm and hungry. I melted and kissed him back harder. Desperately. It wasn’t soft. It was messy, deep, open-mouthed, tongue-filled, groan-inducing.
I slid my hand down, unzipped him, and wrapped my fingers around his cock. He moaned against my mouth, his breath shaky. God, he was so hard. Hot, thick, pulsing in my hand.
He moved fast. His hand swept the counter clean, bowls, ingredients, and pots, crashing
to the floor and lifting me onto the slab. My legs instinctively wrapped around his waist. He pulled my panties aside, spreading my legs wider with both hands.
Then he pulled me forward, lined himself up, and pushed in.
He filled me slowly, deliciously. Every inch stretching me, owning me. I held onto his shoulders, my moans breaking into whimpers.
The sound of skin slapping skin filled the room, mixed with our heavy breathing. The sauce on the stove burned. I didn’t care. He drove into me, harder, deeper, his hand gripping my butt, my fingers digging into his back. Our bodies fit like puzzle pieces, moving like they’d done this a hundred times before.
He pulled out just in time, stroking himself until he came all over my belly, groaning my name.
We stood there for a second. Breathless. Sweaty. Laughing.
We cleaned up or tried to. But then he grabbed me again, pulling me down onto the cold kitchen tiles.
We kissed. We touched. We made love slowly. This time, no rush. No heat. Just warmth. Intimacy. Connection.
When it was over, we lay there, tangled and naked on the tiles, the smell of burnt pasta in the air.
I looked at him, smiling. “So… kitchen sex. Finally.”
He laughed. “Best meal I’ve ever had.”
And damn it, I agreed.
BY BOLUWATIFE ADESINA
MOVIE REVIEW:
A Minecraft Movie
For nearly 15 years, Minecraft has been a popular digital playground for players who love its open-world setup and iconic blocky design. But after more than a decade languishing in development hell, its big-screen adaptation arrives with the narrative depth of a forgettable side quest.
For the duration of A Minecraft Movie, Jack Black and Jason Momoa strain and sweat to inject life into a computerised landscape, their performances bouncing manically off a green screen void filled in with cube-shaped, computergenerated wildlife. Amid the current entertainment landscape of IP-driven titles or unambitious remakes, it’s not hard to imagine studio boardrooms full of a dozen more of these algorithm-driven adaptations.
One imagines this hollowness wasn’t the aim of director Jared Hess (Napoleon Dynamite), but such is the state of franchise filmmaking today. Despite the valiant efforts of its cast, A Minecraft Movie lacks the very spark of creativity that made its source material a global phenomenon. Instead, it’s another example of Hollywood shoving a beloved property into the factory (cube-shaped) mould, hoping name recognition will be enough to justify its existence.
The film opens with a clunky, exposition-heavy prologue narrated by Black as the game’s iconic blocky hero, Steve. We get a bythe-numbers backstory about his childhood obsession with exploring mine shafts and his adult discovery of a magic, cubic orb (because spheres don’t exist in Minecraft), teleporting him into the pixelated video game so familiar to longtime fans.
Soon, Momoa’s washed-up video game champ, Garrett, and a handful of Idaho townies — Danielle Brooks as a real estate agent, Emma Myers and Sebastian Hansen as a recently relocated brother-and-sister duo — somehow get spirited into the Minecraft world. Their only way home is a McGuffin in the form of an
orb and a far-off portal, coupled with Steve’s reluctant guidance.
That is, of course, if they can get through a whole bunch of zombies, creepers and heavily armed pigs determined to stop them.
What follows is an adventure with all the emotional heft of a theme park ride, albeit one peppered with moments designed to elicit flickers of recognition from dedicated gamers. As characters bumble their way through familiar biomes and mechanics, one can imagine Minecraft fans experiencing a Pavlovian urge to point at the screen.
But once the fleeting novelty wears off, what remains is a movie caught in tonal limbo. It’s too convoluted for kids, too slight for adults and too self-aware to be taken seriously.
Much like the recent Jumanji entries, which also starred Black and also involved a disparate group of characters sucked into a game environment, A Minecraft Movie tries to balance adventure and meta-humour. But where those films succeeded because of sharply drawn characters and clearly defined stakes. This film’s script (credited to five writers!) features faux-earnest world-building undercut by “Haha, just kidding!” gags.
Momoa at least seems to be having fun, gamely spoofing his own gruff action hero persona, while Black throws himself into the role of Steve with the overcaffeinated energy of a man who abjectly refuses to phone it in.
In an amusing subplot, Jennifer Coolidge has some fun moments as a school vice principal, but her scenes feel so disconnected from the main story one wonders if it was edited in to pad the 101-minute runtime.
Ultimately, A Minecraft Movie is less a film than a brand extension. If this is the future of video game adaptations, maybe it’s time to shut down the mine shaft.
Rating:4/10
The most imaginative and relevant show on TV isn’t the one about tourists from hell turning a tropical paradise upside down or the one about corporate drones who separate the professional from the personal. It has been on the air for 14 years, and its new season, out now on Netflix, might actually be its best yet.
Yes, Black Mirror is back for a seventh instalment, ready to poke and prod at all of your technological future-shock anxieties. But a funny (or perhaps not so funny) thing has happened since the anthology series bowed on England’s Channel 4 back in 2011 before moving to Netflix in 2016. Those anxieties, upgraded for these times when artificial intelligence seems to be on everyone’s minds and lips, now belong as much to the present as the future.”
Black Mirror, created by Charlie Brooker (who also has a hand in writing each stand-alone episode), remains firmly in the land of sci-fi, but the shudders and laughter it induces run deeper than ever before.
The premiere episode, Common People, sets the tone by working in registers that range from comedy to tragedy to terror. A couple in the near future, Amanda and Mike (Rashida Jones and Chris O’Dowd) is sent reeling when Amanda is diagnosed with an aggressive form of brain cancer. But wait: A new startup medical company, Rivermind, saves Amanda’s life with a groundbreaking digital brain-scan technology. There are, however, side effects.
Amanda begins unconsciously spouting ad copy for everything from breakfast cereal to Christian family counselling. This bug can be fixed, but only for an upcharge (offered by Tracee Ellis Ross’ ever-smiling sales associate, also a Rivermind customer). Life and death are now a matter of coverage tiers. To meet the new financial demand, Mike, an overworked construction foreman, spends his free time on Dum Dummies, a crowdfunded website that offers cash rewards for on-camera acts of self-humiliation.
It all adds up to a perfect storm of tech-enabled degradation. But Black Mirror” constantly distinguishes itself by dramatizing both sides of the technology equation, the potential, tantalizing benefits and the dehumanizing consequences. The series also excels at integrating major and
minor storylines with a precision that would make Seinfeld proud.
The season’s masterpiece is Episode 3, Hotel Reverie, which almost plays like a feature film (with a running time of 76 minutes, it could just about be one). Directed by Haolu Wang, it is also a wickedly smart commentary on the future of filmmaking.
Issa Rae plays Brandy Friday, an actor looking for a starring role outside the realm of what she calls “Sundance misery porn.” She finds an unusual opportunity when a high-tech studio (led by Awkwafina’s producer) places her inside a simulation of a classic
Wouldn’t you know it, there’s a glitch. Brandy gets stuck in her new blackand-white world, where she and her co-star proceed to fall in love. Hotel Reverie turns into a dizzying, tragicomic meditation on free will and what the artistic process might look like in the coming years. It is also achingly romantic. (I’m man enough to admit that I cried.)
Black Mirror has long offered a feast of juicy roles for top actors, and this season’s roster is formidable. In addition to the above, it includes Paul Giamatti, Peter Capaldi (Doctor Who), Cristin Milioti (The Penguin), Billy Magnussen and a stable of stellar British actors including Will Poulter and Rosy McEwen. McEwen particularly is a standout, playing a former bullied nerd after revenge when she lands a research and development job for an upscale food manufacturer in Episode 2, Bête Noire.
Black Mirror has often been compared to The Twilight Zone, and the praise has never felt less hyperbolic. Few, if any, series are so astutely creative about the way we live now.
