THEWILL DOWNTOWN JULY 20, 2025 by THEWILL NEWSPAPER

VALERIE OBAZE

From Mumpreneur to Mother of Ethical Beauty

EDITOR’S NOTE

WPhoto: Kola Oshalusi @insignamedia Makeup: Zaron

hen Valerie Obaze started R&R in 2010, she was living in Lagos and searching for 100 per cent natural products that she could use on her newborn. She struggled to find anything that met her requirements—something locally made with plant-based ingredients. So, she decided to create a product herself, leveraging her experience in consumer branding and the locally available botanical ingredients. This led to R&R’s first product being born—Shea Body Oil (liquid gold). Long before clean beauty became a trend, the brand had already established itself as a clean beauty brand, which came with its own set of challenges. Coming from Africa, Obaze was required to learn a great deal about natural ingredients, such as shea butter and baobab oil, as well as the quality and value of African-made products.

Valeri Obaze’s story is an interesting one; read all about her journey to creating her sustainable luxury beauty brand on pages 8 to 10. You will be inspired.

Something about freshly painted toenails makes you feel put together, even if you are lounging at home in your slippers. This week’s beauty page is all about colours to try on your toenails this season. You must read this; we highlight some fun colours. Scroll to page 12.

It’s the rainy season here in Lagos, and fashion this time of year can be a little tricky. However, don’t worry — we’ve brought you a guide on how to dress when it’s pouring outside. Who says you can’t slay in the rain? You’ll find all you need to stay fashionable in the rainy season on pages 4 and 5.

Until next week, enjoy your read.

@onahluciaa + 2348033239132

AUSTYN OGANNAH

PUBLISHER/EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Executive Editor: Onah Nwachukwu @onahluciaa

Writer: Johnson Chukwueke

Design & Layout: Olaniyan John ‘Blake’

Digital Media: Oladimeji Balogun

Consulting Art Director: Sunny Hughes ‘SunZA’

www.thewilldowntown.com thewilldowntown thewilldowntown

Hormone Harmony Tips for Balancing Your Endocrine Health 5 Best Pedicure Colours to Try

Naija

Valerie Obaze From Mumpreneur to Mother of Ethical Beauty

11 TRAVEL

Top African Cities For an Exciting Summertime

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.

NIGERIA MADE IN

Boluwatife

SLAYING IN THE RAIN FASHION

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

Rainy days can sometimes feel like a fashion challenge. The wet weather makes it hard to dress stylishly while staying comfortable and dry. But guess what? You can still slay on those rainy days with the right outfit choices. Whether you are heading to work or just going out, these six styling tips will help you look fresh, fashionable, and ready to take on the rain.

USE A CROSSBODY OR WATERPROOF BAG

A compact crossbody bag or a cute water-resistant handbag is the best to use during the rainy season. These bags keep your hands free (especially when holding an umbrella), and it’s easier to move around during rush hour. Choose bags that are functional but still stylish.

INVEST IN CUTE RUBBER OR PVC FOOTWEAR

Forget your suede heels or fancy slippers during the rainy season. They won’t survive the puddles or muddy roads. Instead, invest in stylish rubber sandals, jelly shoes, Crocs, or PVC slides. These types of footwear are water-friendly and easy to clean.

GO FOR QUICKDRYING FABRICS

When dressing for rain, pick clothes made from materials that dry quickly, like polyester or cotton blends. If these fabrics get wet, they dry fast, so you won’t feel cold or uncomfortable. Avoid heavy fabrics like denim or thick wool because they absorb water and stay wet for a long time. Quick-drying clothes help you stay fresh and comfortable throughout the day.

ACCESSORISE WITH A CLEAR OR COMPACT UMBRELLA

An umbrella is essential on rainy days, but it can also be a fun accessory. Clear umbrellas are trendy and allow your outfit to shine through without hiding your style. They also give you a modern, fresh look. If you prefer something compact, choose a small, foldable umbrella that fits easily in your bag. This way, you’re always prepared without carrying extra bulk.

FASHION

ADD A HAT FOR EXTRA PROTECTION

A hat keeps rain off your face and hair while making you look put together. Try a waterproof wide-brim hat or a bucket hat - both are practical and trendy. Hats come in many colours, so pick one that matches your style.

KEEP YOUR HAIR AND MAKEUP SIMPLE

Rain can mess up your makeup and hair if you’re not careful. On rainy days, it’s best to keep things light and natural. Use waterproof makeup products like mascara and eyeliner that won’t run when wet. For your hair, consider styles that hold up well in humidity, like braids, buns, or ponytails.

days don’t have to mean dull or soggy style. With these six easy tips, you can stay dry, comfortable, and, most importantly, fashionable.

Rainy

SALLY CHIWUZIE

@unshakable.is.a.state.of.mind

#UNSHAKABLE TRUTHS

V is FOR VOICE

Lastweek, I wrote U is for Unicorn as an honorary love letter to the many extraordinary people I’ve had the pleasure of podcasting with, working alongside, or being deeply moved by in some form or the other. I wrote it during the first of what seems to be several pockets of birthday celebrations — this one unfolding in the gentle, golden beauty of Kigali.

I was seated in a bar, sipping something light, listening to live renditions of some of my favourite songs. The air was thick with warmth and ease. In between verses and laughter, my mind wandered to the unicorns I know — those rare souls who shimmer in their individuality, whose presence transforms rooms. (Dare I arrogantly include myself in this list?) As I thought about their magic, I also thought about what it means to have a voice — and, more importantly, to use it. There’s something about Kigali that invites stillness. The town is unhurried, almost sacred in its rhythm. The mornings arrive gently, with a soft blush of sun over the hills. The streets are tidy, the people polite, the air

honest. Something in that serenity deepened my quiet contemplation. Without chaos pressing in, I found myself sinking into a different kind of reflection — the kind that doesn’t demand answers but encourages you to hear yourself clearly. It’s funny how silence in the right place doesn’t feel empty; it feels full. Full of clarity. Full of reckoning. Full of truth. Many people go through life carrying visions that remain unspoken, unexplored, and unlived. Not for lack of imagination — but often because they lack the courage, the permission, the resources, or the stamina to see those visions through. Some leave this world with their stories trapped inside them, never having dared to try. So, this week’s truth is a celebration of those who are not silenced by the many reasons why something is a bad idea. This one is for those who insist on finding, trusting, and using their voice anyway.

I’m spending the week in quiet contemplation but also in soft, steady circles with friends. Many of our conversations have centred around emotional growth — finally saying the things we once swallowed, setting the boundaries we used to fear, asking for what we truly need, or naming truths that once felt too dangerous to speak. There is something sacred about using your voice with intention. It’s not always loud. Sometimes, it’s the quietest truths that shake the ground beneath us. In fact, two of the bravest things I’ve

ever done required very different kinds of voice.

The first: walking away from a relationship that no longer served me — and doing so without a single word of justification, explanation, or apology. Not everyone deserves an audience in your life. And growth — true growth — teaches you how to recognise scarcity in love. When you are rooted in self-love, the absence of it in others becomes blindingly obvious. You no longer chase breadcrumbs. You no longer bargain for care because your voice — your internal compass — knows better. And knows when to leave.

The second — and perhaps most important: birthing a brand called #Unshakable. Dreaming it into existence and propelling it forward step by step, intuition by intuition, manifestation by manifestation — with a voice so clear, so anchored, so rooted in truth that it is now organically making its way across the globe. No shout. No gimmick. No fast-paced marketing tricks. Just truth, amplified. The growth isn’t rapid, nor is it performative. It’s not a viral flame that burns out. It’s the slow, steady burn of something being built to last — not for virality, but for legacy. I believe #Unshakable is a voice that will live beyond me. It is not being shaped for this moment alone but for the future. For anyone who needs it when I am no longer here to speak it aloud. That, to me, is the essence of a strong voice — one that doesn’t need to perform to be heard. One that doesn’t

COVER VALERIE OBAZE

From Mumpreneur to Mother of Ethical Beauty

WhenValerie Obaze created R&R Skincare in 2010, it wasn’t just another beauty brand—it was a deliberate act of love. Driven by the birth of her daughter, Rebecca-Rose, Obaze sought a skincare line that was pure, simple, and gentle enough for her baby’s skin. What began with shea butter in a kitchen evolved into a refined, purpose-driven business that has reshaped ethical beauty across Africa—and beyond. Obaze’s early career in PR in the UK and Nigeria equipped her with the skills to articulate R&R’s authentic narrative. She combined brand storytelling with integrity, placing ethical sourcing and women’s empowerment at the heart of her vision. By founding the Women of the Savannah Development Project (WSDP), she transformed the lives of rural Ghanaian women, helping them build cooperatives, processing tools, and yearround income through initiatives that value dignity and fair pay.

Over the last 15 years, R&R has grown into a luxury skincare powerhouse—now available across West Africa, with flagship spaces in Accra and Lagos and a production footprint deeply anchored in Ghana. As the brand enters its sustainable era, Obaze is pioneering refill packaging, zerowaste processing, and refined formulas rooted in botanical purity.

In this exclusive interview with THEWILL DOWNTOWN’s Johnson Chukwueke, Valerie Obaze shares how her journey as a mother and entrepreneur shaped R&R’s ethos, why she believes in simplicity over hype, and how one woman’s vision can shift not just skin but systems.

R&R began as a passion project inspired by your daughter. How has that story evolved over the last decade?

When I started R&R in 2010, I was living in Lagos and searching for 100% natural products that I could use on my newborn, and I struggled to find anything that met my requirements— being locally made with plant-based ingredients. It was then that I decided to make a product myself using not only my experience in consumer branding but, most importantly, the amazing botanical ingredients that were available to me locally, which led to R&R’s first product being born – Shea Body Oil, aka liquid gold.

What challenges did you face building a clean beauty brand from Africa before the global ‘clean beauty’ boom?

just about natural ingredients like shea butter or baobab oil, but about the quality and value of African-made products. Navigating compliance, especially with varying global standards, was (and still is) a learning curve. But that challenge also became one of our strengths as it led me to make sure quality was one of the biggest focuses for the brand across product formulation, packaging and everything we do.

You’ve emphasised sustainability and ethical sourcing. What does ‘sustainable luxury’ mean to you today?

Luxury, to me, is not about the price tag of an item but about the quality and how that item makes you feel.

“I honestly just try my best. I’ve learned to embrace the ebb and flow—some days, I’m winning at work; other days, I’m winning at home and find myself way behind on my emails. I try to be present wherever I am, and I’ve also learned the power of delegation and asking for help — having a solid team at the office and support at home helps me a lot.”

Sustainable luxury at R&R looks like pure, high-quality ingredients sourced responsibly from women in northern Ghana, minimal and recyclable packaging, and a commitment to transparency throughout the supply chain.

How do you ensure quality control and ethical practices across your female-led shea supply chain in Ghana? Ethical sourcing is at the heart of what we do at R&R Skincare. For me, it’s not just about producing great products—it’s about empowering the women who produce the shea butter and other indigenous African ingredients that we use in our formulations. We own our entire supply chain with a fully equipped processing centre in the rural North of Ghana, where we work directly with the women in the local communities through our NGO, WSDP (Women of the Savannah Development Project), to produce our raw materials ensuring transparency and quality along the entire process.

The women have formed co-operatives and run their own businesses using tools and machinery at our processing centre, free of charge. We purchase the raw shea butter from them at above-market rates, ensuring fair compensation. Our quality assurance team regularly audits quality, and we maintain an open, continuous dialogue with the women to improve processes while preserving traditional methods and supporting them.

“The U.S. beauty market is fast-paced, but consumers in the market are looking for products that they can connect with that are natural and from the African continent. There’s a growing appetite for brands with real purpose, and being Africanfounded, female-led, and values-driven has helped us carve out a meaningful space—even in a very crowded industry.”

In 2010, “clean beauty” wasn’t a trend yet— and coming from this part of the world, there was a lot of education required, not

R&R recently entered the U.S. market. What lessons have you learned expanding into such a competitive space?

One of my goals with R&R was to have the brand sitting, as one of the first African beauty brands, on the shelves of large department stores around the world next to the big beauty brands that are household names. The U.S. beauty

market is fast-paced, but consumers in the market are looking for products that they can connect with that are natural and from the African continent. There’s a growing appetite for brands with real purpose, and being African-founded, female-led, and values-driven has helped us carve out a meaningful space— even in a very crowded industry.

Your background is in PR. How has that shaped the way you tell the R&R brand story? My PR background taught me the power of storytelling and authenticity and gave me a major head start when developing the marketing strategy for R&R. Having worked with consumer brands in the beauty space during my eight years in PR, I understood that it’s never just about selling products—it’s about sharing our journey, our values, and the women behind our ingredients. I also understand how to tailor messaging to different markets without losing the heart of who we are, which has been crucial in building an African luxury brand with global appeal.

What do you consider your proudest moment as a beauty entrepreneur so far?

Being featured in Forbes as an ‘African skincare trailblazer’ was a surreal moment—it was recognition not just of me but of the entire R&R journey and the incredible women who are part of it. But beyond the headlines, it’s seeing the real-

life impact—every time I meet someone in a new city who knows about the brand or uses R&R products, it reminds me of why I started this journey.

You’re often described as a “mumpreneur.” How do you manage the juggle between family and business?

I honestly just try my best. I’ve learned to embrace the ebb and flow—some days, I’m winning at work; other days, I’m winning at home and find myself way behind on my emails. I try to be present wherever I am, and I’ve also learned the power of delegation and asking for help — having a solid team at the office and support at home helps me a lot.

When you’re not working, what brings you the most peace and joy?

Spending time with my family. I make it a point to sit down and have lunch with my family every Sunday and try to be as present as possible without my phone during that time. I also try to fit in solo spa days at least once per month so that I can unwind and just enjoy moments of restoration and peace.

Tell us something about you that might surprise people— not the entrepreneur, but Valerie. I’m actually quite introverted. People often assume I’m naturally outgoing because I speak publicly and lead a brand—but I really value my quiet time. Also, if I weren’t running R&R, I’d probably be working in interior design. I have a deep love for creating beautiful, calming spaces and really enjoyed being super involved with the design process of our flagship store in Accra, Ghana.

TOP AFRICAN CITIES FOR AN EXCITING SUMMERTIME

Cape Town, South Africa

Cape Town is an unbeatable summer gem with stunning beaches like Camps Bay and Clifton, and the iconic Table Mountain standing tall in the backdrop. From wine tastings in Stellenbosch to scenic drives along Chapman’s Peak, the city offers a balanced mix of outdoor adventure, fine dining, and artsy neighbourhoods like Bo-Kaap and Woodstock. Summer in Cape Town means beach braais (BBQs), music festivals, and laid-back oceanfront fun.

Accra, Ghana

Accra has emerged as one of Africa’s hottest destinations, particularly during the summer. Beyond its vibrant nightlife, you’ll find cultural hotspots like the W.E.B. DuBois Center and James Town. The city’s summer calendar is usually dotted with art fairs, food festivals, and beach concerts. Accra’s energy is magnetic, especially when the sun’s out and the party’s just getting started.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

When people think of summer escapes, their minds often drift toward European coastlines or Southeast Asian retreats. But Africa, with its blend of electric cities, diverse landscapes, rich cultures, and unforgettable hospitality, offers some of the most exciting summertime destinations in the world. Whether you’re a beach bum, a culture enthusiast, or someone who just wants to enjoy vibrant nightlife under warm skies, Africa has something for everyone. Here are five African cities that turn up the heat, in the best way, every summer.

Dakar, Senegal

Dakar is where West African rhythm meets Atlantic breeze. The city’s summer pulse is driven by a rich music scene, historical landmarks like Gorée Island, and golden beaches that are perfect for sun-chasing. Food lovers can enjoy thieboudienne (Senegal’s famous fish and rice dish) while watching surfers ride the waves of Yoff Beach. And when night falls, Dakar comes alive with energy and soulful beats.

Marrakech, Morocco

Although temperatures soar, Marrakech in the summer is an exotic experience worth having. Wake up early to explore the historic medina, shop in bustling souks, and unwind in serene riads. As the sun sets, the city transforms, and the Jemaa el-Fnaa square buzzes with storytellers, dancers, and sizzling street food. Escape the heat with poolside luxury or a rooftop dinner overlooking the Red City.

Zanzibar City, Tanzania

Looking for beach luxury and Swahili charm? Zanzibar City offers the best of both. Stone Town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site filled with winding alleys, spice markets, and cultural treasures. Meanwhile, the coast offers crystal-clear waters, perfect for diving, snorkelling, or just unwinding with a cocktail. A Zanzibar summer is about slowing down and soaking in the beauty of island life.

Summer in Africa isn’t just a vacation; it’s an experience. Whether it’s the spicy aroma of Zanzibar’s markets, the rhythm of Ghanaian afrobeats, or the dramatic landscapes of South Africa, these cities deliver unforgettable memories wrapped in warmth, colour, and cultural richness. So why go far when the continent offers some of the best summertime adventures in the world? Your passport’s waiting.

SOFT PEACH

Soft peach is the colour you use if you want to look neat, delicate, and sophisticated. It doesn’t do too much and is easy on the eyes while giving your toes a glossy, new look. Peach sits somewhere between nude and pastel, which makes it perfect for everyday wear. It complements nearly every ensemble and is particularly beautiful on darker complexion tones. Whether you’re going to the beach or the office, soft peach makes everything look beautiful and serene.

TO TRY THIS SEASON PEDICURE COLOURS BEST5

BY DORCAS AKINTOYE

There’s just something about freshly painted toenails that makes you feel put together, even if you’re just lounging at home in your slippers. Whether you’re planning a beach trip, slipping into your favourite sandals, or just want to treat yourself, picking the right pedicure colour can boost your confidence and style. This season, it’s all about colours that pop or simply match the mood. Let us introduce you to five of the best pedicure colours to try this season.

For a good reason, white toenails have become popular. In the best sense of the word, they are neat, precise, and striking. White complements every colour of shoe and every outfit, making it incredibly adaptable. This season, white polish is ideal since it complements melanin-rich or tanned skin tones. Additionally, many individuals adore the “fresh out of the spa” appearance it conveys. Use bright white for a simple yet eye-catching look. Just be careful when applying it because white polish tends to expose mistakes quite clearly.

CORAL RED

If you’re wearing open-toed shoes, this colour adds a lively splash of colour and gives your feet energy. Coral red is a colour that exudes confidence, fun, and vacation. All skin tones benefit from it, and it gives your feet a vibrant appearance. It’s also a fantastic choice for those who desire a striking hue without going overboard or too deep. It’s the kind of colour that makes you smile when you look down at your toes.

LILAC OR SOFT PURPLE

Lilac is soft, cool, and just the right amount of fancy. It gives off a calm and soothing vibe, which makes it perfect for days when you want something fresh but not too flashy. It’s unique without being dramatic, and it gives your pedicure a slightly romantic or dreamy feel. It also works well if you’re someone who likes matching your hand and toe polish but still wants a touch of fun.

CHOCOLATE BROWN

This season is the ideal moment to try chocolate brown, one of the most underrated pedicure colours. It’s rich and sophisticated and gives your feet a sophisticated, grounded appearance. Chocolate tones work exceptionally well with melaninrich skin, but they also look great on lighter tones. It gives a warm, earthy vibe and can even feel luxurious.

Your toes deserve some attention, and the right pedicure colour can make all the difference. This season is all about showing personality through your polish, whether it’s a bold coral red or a calming lilac. So go ahead, treat your feet to a splash of colour. Whether you’re getting it done at a salon or doing a DIY pedicure at home, these five shades are sure to keep your toes looking fresh, fun, and fabulous.

BRIGHT WHITE

HEALTH

HORMONE HARMONY

TIPS FOR BALANCING YOUR ENDOCRINE HEALTH

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Hormones. They’re like that group chat you can’t leave— everything’s connected, and when one message (or hormone) is out of sync, chaos can erupt. Your endocrine system controls everything from your mood and sleep to metabolism and energy levels.

I bet most people didn’t realise this, but you can hit “reset” and bring balance to your hormonal squad. So, if you’re ready to unlock the secrets to hormone harmony, let’s explore practical tips that will keep your body’s group chat buzzing with good vibes only.

Plate Your Way to Balance

What’s on your plate can either fuel harmony or cause chaos. Think of whole foods as the VIP members of your hormone squad. Healthy fats like avocado and salmon? They’re the peacekeepers. Fibre-rich foods like beans and vegetables? The cleanup crew, helping to flush out excess hormones. And sugar? It’s the toxic ex you don’t need. Too much sugar can mess with your insulin, leading to energy crashes and mood swings. So, load up on vibrant, nutrientdense foods to keep your hormones happy and thriving.

Keep Moving, Keep Grooving

Exercise isn’t just for building biceps; it’s like a happy hour for your hormones. Cardio boosts endorphins, strength training balances testosterone, and stretching improves blood flow— all vital for hormone harmony. The trick? Mix it up. One day, hit the gym; the next, take a walk or try a Zumba class. Moving your body regularly keeps your hormones high-fiving each other.

Sleep Like a Boss

Do you want your hormones to cooperate? Let them rest! Sleep is your body’s nightly meeting where cortisol, melatonin, and growth hormones sort things out. Skip those meetings (aka sleep), and everything gets chaotic. Create a sleep sanctuary with blackout curtains, a comfy mattress, and a strict “no scrolling” rule. Seven to nine hours of solid shut-eye will keep your hormones on their A-game, and you’ll wake up ready to slay.

Stress Less, Smile More

Ever feel like life’s throwing one curveball after another? Your hormones do, too. Chronic stress cranks up cortisol, the stress hormone that throws the rest of your system into a frenzy. Combat stress like a pro: try yoga, mindfulness, or even just blasting your favourite playlist for a dance break. Laughter truly is medicine, so find your joy—it’s one of the most underrated ways to balance your hormones.

Detox Your Environment

Your home might be a secret villain in your hormone saga. Everyday items—like plastic containers and certain cosmetics—contain endocrine disruptors that confuse your hormones. Switch to glass or stainless steel for food storage, and opt for natural products whenever possible. This small step can have a significant impact on protecting your hormone squad from sneaky saboteurs.

Hormones may be complex, but looking after them doesn’t have to be. Think of your endocrine system as your body’s backstage crew, quietly orchestrating everything. With these simple, fun tips, you’ll keep your hormones in check, your energy sky-high, and your mood golden. Now, go out there and rock your balanced, vibrant self.

BON APPÉTIT

Local Ingredients For a Healthier Life CLEAN EATING NAIJA STYLE

Packed with iron, calcium, and antioxidants, Ugu is a super green in disguise. Whether blended into smoothies or stirred into a pot of Egusi, it supports blood health and digestion. A true leafy legend.

Unrefined, unpolished, and nutrient-dense, Ofada rice is Nigeria’s answer to brown rice. It’s high in fibre, great for heart health, and keeps you full longer. Plus, it tastes like home.

These chewy delights are naturally sweet, high in fibre, and lactose-free. Use them to make tiger nut milk or eat them as a snack. They’re great for gut health and loaded with potassium and magnesium.

BY JOHNSON CHUKWUEKE

Let’s be honest: when most people think of “clean eating,” their minds go straight to kale, quinoa, and almond milk — all imported, sometimes overpriced, and often unrecognisable to the average Nigerian shopper. But what if we told you that the clean eating movement doesn’t need a passport? That right here in our local markets, the ingredients for a healthy lifestyle are fresh, vibrant, and deliciously Nigerian. Nigeria is blessed with a bounty of natural, nutrient-rich foods that our ancestors thrived on long before green smoothies and detox teas became trendy. From leafy greens to ancient grains, we’ve always had access to clean eating staples; we just needed to reframe them. So, whether you’re on a health kick or simply want to eat better without giving up your roots, here are five local ingredients that are putting Nigeria on the clean-eating map.

This aromatic herb isn’t just for flavour— it’s medicinal gold. Rich in antioxidants, antibacterial compounds, and essential oils, scent leaf supports respiratory health, fights inflammation, and boosts immunity. Use it fresh in teas, sauces, or soups—it’s nature’s wellness booster with that unmistakable aroma of home.

Often underrated, this fermented superfood is loaded with protein, calcium, and probiotics. It adds umami flavour to soups while boosting gut and immune health. A spoonful of Iru is a spoonful of culture.

Clean eating isn’t about ditching local cuisine for foreign trends—it’s about understanding the power of our own ingredients and honouring them. With the right balance, our everyday meals can be both hearty and healthy. Whether you’re sipping tiger nut milk at breakfast or loading up your plate with Ugu-infused stew, remember this: wellness isn’t imported—it’s homegrown. So the next time you’re at the market, look past the processed aisle and dive into the real MVPs—our indigenous superfoods. They’ve been nourishing generations, and now, they’re ready for their glow-up on your plate.

Locust Beans (Iru)

Ugu (Fluted Pumpkin Leaves)

Tiger Nut (Kunu Aya)

Ofada Rice

DOWNTOWN CONFIDENTIAL

cassy’s chronicles

UNMASKED DESIRE

Ihad waited so long for this night, the masked party Amaka wouldn’t stop talking about. It wasn’t the usual Lagos hangout; it was something different, classy, and mysterious. It was the type of party where nobody knew who you were unless you wanted them to. No names. Just vibes.

I wore a deep red satin dress with a slit that flirted with my thigh every time I moved.

My black lace mask sat perfectly on my face, giving just enough mystery to keep people guessing. I wasn’t there to meet anyone. I just wanted to enjoy the thrill of it all: the lights, the music, the anonymity.

But then I saw him.

He stood across the room in a fitted black shirt and a sleek black mask that appeared to have been custom-made for his face. He had a stillness about him as if he was confident without even trying. Our eyes locked. I should have looked away, but I didn’t.

He walked over, slow and sure.

“Hi,” he said, his voice deep and familiar.

“Hi,” I replied, already smiling.

We got drinks and found ourselves side by side at the edge of the room. We didn’t talk much. Just light conversation, little touches, soft laughter. There was this pull, unspoken but strong. The kind that makes your body feel like it’s leaning in even when you’re trying to stay composed.

We danced. Close. His hands were on my waist. Mine resting on his chest, and it was like electricity passed through me. Eventually, we left the crowd and went upstairs to a quiet lounge with velvet chairs and golden lights. It was empty. Just us and the silence.

Without a word, we both reached for our masks slowly. It felt like a mutual decision, like we both needed to see. And the moment his mask dropped, my breath caught in my throat.

It was Tobi. My ex.

We said each other’s names at the same time.

“Tobi...”

“Zara...”

He stared at me, shocked. “I just knew there was something about you,” he said softly, his eyes not leaving mine. “The pull… it was too good to be true.”

I let out a small laugh, nervous and surprised. “This is crazy.”

“Is it?” he asked, stepping closer. “Or is this exactly how it was supposed to happen?”

My heart was racing. I could still remember how we ended: messy, painful, full of unsaid words. But at that moment, all I could feel was the way he was looking at me. Like he never stopped. “I miss you,” he whispered. That did it.

The kiss came fast. No hesitation. His lips crashed into mine, and suddenly, we were tangled up on the couch like no time had passed. His hands knew my body like a map he’d memorised. My nails dug into his back, pulling him closer, harder.

It wasn’t soft. It wasn’t gentle. It was raw. Urgent. That kind of sex you have with someone you’ve missed for too long. Like your body wants to make up for every second apart. We moved together like we remembered each other’s rhythm. The moans, the gasps, the way he kept saying my name, it was everything.

When it was over, we lay there quietly, both catching our breath.

He turned to me, “So… what happens now?”

I looked at him, really looked at him. He was still the same—the same man who once had all of me and lost it.

I smiled faintly, fingers tracing lazy circles on his arm. “This doesn’t mean we get back together.”

He nodded slowly. “I know.”

“But I needed this,” I said. “To remember how it felt. To feel… seen.”

He didn’t say anything for a while. Just held my gaze.

“Maybe,” he whispered, “this was our goodbye… done right.”

I rested my head on his chest and allowed the silence to speak for me.

And when I finally stood up to leave, I didn’t look back.

MOVIE REVIEW:

Superman

BeforeI saw James Gunn’s new Superman movie, which sets out to lay the cornerstone of a new era for DC superhero characters, I was pessimistic.

DC’s last attempt at a cinematic universe was a dour, gritty version of this universe. We had a brooding Superman, a brooding Batman, a brooding Aquaman… you get the idea. While it was admittedly cool to see our heroes not hold back, I always did feel that director and overall creative lead of that version of DC Movies, Zack Snyder, had a fundamental misunderstanding of the characters he was responsible for.

A peek behind the curtain: for years — decades, in fact—I have been a Superman fan. When I heard that a reboot of the DC Movies universe was starting with the Man of Steel with James Gunn at the helm, I couldn’t be more excited. You see, Gunn is a fan of comics just as much as he is a filmmaker, so I knew we were in good hands.

Superman is simple, yet so many get him so wrong and call him boring: The two central, definitive attributes to any Superman story are selflessness and resolve. He must always: 1. Put the needs of others before those of himself, and 2. Refuse to give up. If either of those factors is missing, our minds rebel — it’s simply not Superman.

But having now seen Gunn’s Superman, I’m prepared to add a third essential attribute to the idiomatic fuel mixture that makes Superman Superman, which this film illustrates with a bracing clarity and humour: He’s corny.

The first word we see Superman (David Corenswet) say on-screen — he mutters it to himself, having just had his ass entirely handed to him in a fight — is, “Golly.” (Throughout the film, he peppers his dialogue with the occasional “gosh”).

Later, Lois Lane (Rachel Brosnahan) makes fun of his taste in music (bland, radio-friendly pop-punk).

BOLUWATIFE ADESINA

When questioned about his reasons for performing a certain super-deed that saved thousands of lives, his response is incredulity: “Why? I mean … to do good! For, you know … good!”

At one point, instead of gloating over a fallen foe, he launches into an impassioned speech about his abject love of humanity and his own, all-too-human fallibility.

In terms of visual iconography, Gunn not only returns the classic red trunks to the Superman costume, he doubles down on them. And as for resolve: He’s got that in spades. This Superman starts the film bruised, bloody, battered but unbowed, and will spend much of its running time getting further hammered and lasered and imprisoned and kryptonite-poisoned by evil billionaire Lex Luthor (a fantastic Nicholas Hoult).

Luthor’s goal is the annihilation of Superman, and he’s using everything in his considerable power to get it, from nanite-enhanced goons to international conflicts to social media smear campaigns. (This is another one of those films in which incessant television broadcasts act as a kind of electronic Greek chorus, helpfully informing us of major, albeit seemingly instantaneous, shifts in public opinion).

But every time he’s brought low, this Superman rallies, and returns to the fray.

All of this, of course, is corny. Cheesy. Achingly sincere. Cringe, even.

Which is to say: It’s Superman.

Recent attempts to tell live-action Superman stories have shied away from his bright, hopeful, altruistic nature in favour of making him cooler and relatable (read: dark and brooding). That’s not who he is; it never has been.

Superman is an ideal. He represents the best we can aspire to be. He’s not the hero you relate to, à la Peter Parker/ Spider-Man’s ongoing struggle to pay his rent and buy Aunt May her damn medicine. He’s the hero who inspires you, who shows you the way.

Every era gets the Superman it needs. Richard Donner’s grand, mythic, unapologetically hopeful Superman: The Movie (1978) arrived in the wake of Vietnam and Watergate, when America had sunk into a defensive cynicism. 2013’s Man of Steel gave us a superman for the post-9/11, post-Snowden era: a hero burdened by moral ambiguity and the costs of collateral damage. Its gritty realism

and shattered idealism mirrored a world of drone strikes, eroded trust in institutions, and the uneasy trade-offs between security and freedom.

Gunn’s Superman arrives at yet another time in history when everything that we ostensibly stand for — bedrock human principles like justice for all, defending the defenceless, helping those in need — feel out of reach.

It’s inspiring to be reminded what those ideals look like, even if Superman (and Superman) shows them to us through a bright, aspirational lens.

If that seems at all radical, chalk it up to the fact that our early-aughts cultural fascination with antiheroes like Walter White and Don Draper sloshed over into our superheroes at some point. It’s not just the old-schoolers like Batman and Iron Man; now, every hero in tights has a dark outlook and a troubled past. This year alone, the Thunderbolts battled a super-powered personification of regret itself. And over on Disney+’s Ironheart, our ostensible hero was so mired in guilt that she slid into a life of crime and drew the attention of the MCU’s literal devil.

But there’s always been another way. It doesn’t have to be about slogging through trauma and shame and shadow-selves and endlessly tedious redemption arcs. Sometimes, it’s simpler, cleaner, brighter. And also? Not for nothing?

More fun.

Again and again, in Gunn’s film, we watch Superman placing himself between innocent civilians and mortal danger, saving individual lives (and Squirrels!). Which brings me to the very simple reason why Gunn’s movie works as well as it does.

It makes you want to cheer.

That’s it, that’s the secret ingredient that’s been missing from so many superhero stories for so long. You come to a Superman movie to feel that surge of elation, that vicarious joy that moves you to cheer and applaud the events on screen. If you’ve ever found yourself in a crowded theatre and got swept up in such a moment (Avengers: Endgame’s iconic “On your left” scene, for example), you remember it for the rest of your life.

I felt that surge of joy several times, watching Superman, and the crowd around me felt it, too. Admittedly, we weren’t always cheering for Superman himself.

At one point, Edi Gathegi’s Mr. Terrific, one of several more less commonly known DC heroes appearing in the film, gets a moment of his own that elicited cries of appreciation from my crowd. (This is notable because in the comics, he’s famously the thirdsmartest man in the world, but typically

comes off as a little dour. Gathegi’s take is much more fun, and more in keeping with how anyone possessed of such world-class intelligence would act in real life — namely, perpetually and performatively annoyed at having to be surrounded by stupid people).

Mostly, though, we were cheering for the dog.

Krypto is a super-powered (and superpoorly trained) dog in a cape, and he’s resolutely awesome. He gets several cheerable moments, bless him.

Hoult’s Luthor is fun, has the best music in the movie and is just an impressively obsessive hater. If Big Blue makes me want to be a better person, this Lex makes me want to up my hating game.

On a broader level, Gunn’s film is very good at what it sets out to do: It delivers a Superman deeply in touch with his humanity, and perfectly representative of the essence of the character.

What it doesn’t do, particularly, is break much in the way of new ground.

It lacks the grand sweep and scope of Donner’s 1978 film, which had a much heavier lift — it had to establish the mythic quality necessary for audiences to “believe a man can fly.”

But Gunn doesn’t need to establish that — he can draft off of the decades of Superman film and television projects that have landed since 1978 to do the world-building work. So he doesn’t waste our time with any of it: As the film opens,

is a known presence. Clark and Lois are dating. Luthor hates Superman.

While it hits a lot of narrative beats that have been hit before in previous films, television series and comics (we get another Pa Kent “Clark, it’s your actions that make you who you are,” speech, for example), at least it hits them cleanly, and it doesn’t apologise for them.

The feeling of watching it is similar to that of flipping through an individual comic book — it’s bright, colorful, it’s crammed with characters who don’t get quite enough to do (too-brief scenes with the Daily Planet staff can only feint toward establishing them as individual characters) but it’s inviting you into a universe that I can’t wait to spend more time in. This world is one where anything can happen. Kaiju, pocket universes and portals are par for the course. A fifth-dimensional imp? Just another Tuesday. It’s a living, breathing sandbox that sets up this universe to be so much less grounded than the Marvel universe in the best possible way.

This is the first movie in a very long time that I caught myself looking at my watch, not because it was too long, but because I wanted more! It feels so much shorter than its runtime. If you’ve ever read a comic book, this one is for us. Is it perfect? No. It’s good, but I wouldn’t say it’s GREAT. And that’s okay! Corenswet’s Superman is iconic, goofy, inspiring, cheesy, and if you look up, you’ll find him preparing yet again to hurl himself in harm’s way, because that’s what he was born to do.

Rating: 8/10