USAfrica Journal

English Premier League: Ghana’s Andre Ayew Starts Strong

USAfrica

Journal

www.usafricajournal.com

The voice of Africans in the Diaspora

Mama Nike Still Leading In A Man’s World

In Liberia

BYE BYE TO EBOLA Don’t Travel To Nigeria: Get Your BVN In USA!

I Do God; I Hate the N-Word

DAVID OYELOWO

100-Plus Days In Office

HOW’S BUHARI DOING?

DISPLAY UNTIL DECEMBER 2015

Guaranty Trust Bank plc RC 152321

USAfrica

Journal

www.usafricajournal.com

The voice of Africans in the Diaspora

JOHANNA WILD

In Sync With Lagos Pg. 16

Just Who Is Onyeabor?

Pg. 24

Feel Fabulous In Fall!

Pg. 42 It’s All In Your Eyes!

Pg. 44

Africa’s Gift To America

The Brainy Boys

A Publication of USA Media LLC The voice of Africans in the Diaspora Vol. 2, Issue 5 | 2015

CONTENTS

USA Media LLC PRESIDENT/CEO ‘Tunde Kolawole, MS, SPHR VICE PRESIDENT, FINANCE/ADMINISTRATION Bola Ajebeku vpfinance@usafricajournal.com

6

Tales from Lagos

Cover 2: Africa’s Gift to America: The Brainy Boys

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF ‘Tunde Kolawole editor@usafricajournal.com MANAGING EDITOR Lisa Kayle CONTRIBUTING WRITERS A.Obafemi Animasaun, Mark Finlay, Betty John, Patrick Obinna, Jessica Banda, Tosin Obiwale, Esther Olatunde, Isaac Oluwole, Renny Vonne, Alex Baker, Sadiat Makuna, George Igbakhiare, John Kay, Eldana Mengesha.

5 | From the Editor’s Desk:

A Legacy of

Service

10 | Health:

Keeping Migraine at Bay: Five Tips

12-13

14 | StraightUp Folasophical: Money By All Means Necessary

CHIEF ADVERTISING EXECUTIVE, USA Ninilola Ogundare advertise@usafricajournal.com New York Bureau Joseph B. Oyewande nyoffice@usafricajournal.com New Jersey Bureau Funso Awoyera fawoyera@usafricajournal.com

8 | Faith-Full:

Wedding Bells: At Adeola and Adedeji’s Wedding

Washington DC/Maryland Bureau Kayode Adewumi kadewumi@usafricajournal.com

23-25

GRAPHICS graphics@usafricajournal.com

16 | Travels: In Sync With the Soundscapes of Lagos

28 | Business

SALES REPRESENTATIVES

30 | News-Africa:

Elizabeth Kolawole (Pennsylvania); 610-570-9143 Mujidat Irawolomo Shonekan (MD); 240-678-1935 Frederick Ebede (Newcastle, DE); 302-690-4881 Muyiwa Olawole (United Kingdom) 07952199648 Perosola Osoba (Lagos, Nigeria) 080 68449168 Odunayo Adetola (Lagos, Nigeria) 080 83909994 For sales inquiries worldwide, call: 1-530-237-4222

– Bye Bye To Ebola

Arts & Entertainment: David Oyelowo Hates The N-Word

GENERAL MANAGER, AFRICA OPERATIONS Tayo Oluwaseun (Nigeria); 080-55996778 PUBLISHED BY USA Media LLC, P.O. BOX 33143, Philadelphia, PA 19142 www.usamediallc.com

32-35

In Liberia

36-37 | Politics:

Buhari’s First 100 Days – Failing or Passing?

40-41 | In The News: Walmart Rising - Good or Bad?

SUBSCRIPTIONS To subscribe, email us at subscribe@usafricajournal.com usafricajournal@

USAfrica Journal makes every effort to ensure the accuracy of the information it publishes but cannot be held responsible for any consequences arising from errors or omissions. All advertisements are presumed true, accurate and published in good faith. USAfrica Journal or its publishing company is not responsible for any errors or omissions, and makes no representation about any of the advertisements published on its pages. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is strictly prohibited.

4

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

Cover Story: Mama Nike – Leading In a Man’s World

ON THE COVER: Mama Nike – Credit: Nike Center for Arts and Culture COVER 2: Victor Agbafe and Harold Ekeh – Credit: Frog Tutoring

42-43 | Fashion 44 | Beauty: Eyes See It! 46 | Sports: Andre Ayew – Can He Go All The Way?

FROM THE EDITOR’S DESK

TALES FROM LAGOS

I

came back from Nigeria few weeks ago with a lucid perspective about the goings-on in the country of my birth. Though electioneering ended more than four months ago, the heartbeats of the people are still in sync with politics and its many nuances. The new sheriff in town, President Muhammadu Buhari promised change, so it was quite understandable that in Lagos, the commercial nerve center of the country, there was a palpable sense of expectation on the faces of the people; waiting and wondering when the promised wind of change will start impacting their varied and diverse situations positively.

And while we’re still waiting, the first 100 days of Muhammadu Buhari’s presidency has come and gone. In this issue, we looked back on those 100 days and appraised President Buhari’ s actions, or lack of, thus far. Using his first 100 days in office as a yardstick (albeit a short one) to measure the success of the new administration, how would you grade Buhari? Is he failing? Or passing? The verdict is on page 36.

Pass or fail, Nigerians continue to excel as they trudge on resolutely in their various fields of human endeavors. In the arts realm, we are glad to report that the cold waters of politics have not doused the inherent flame of creativity in the souls of Nigerians. Basic infrastructure and amenities of life may be in short supply, the creative juice, thank goodness, still flows endlessly. In Lagos, world renowned artist and chief executive officer of Nike Center for Arts and Culture, Chief Mrs. Oyenike Okundaye (a.k.a. Mama Nike) still holds court as the leading lady of African arts. I know you’ve heard it a million times that it’s a man’s world, right? Well, when it comes to spreading African arts globally, and passionately pursuing a legacy of bequeathing to the coming generations the richness of Africa’s culture, Mama Nike leads, others – male and female alike – follow! Our encounter with her in Lagos begins on page 32.

And before I left Lagos, I met another wonderful woman that I just couldn’t resist bringing her story back to the States.

Originally from Germany, Johanna Wild, a doctoral student from the University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, United States had only been in Nigeria for about three weeks when our paths crossed. However, what Johanna, who was in Nigeria to complete a fellowship with the OYASAF (Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Art Foundation), had learned about us and our ways in those few days is enough material for a bestseller. Johanna graciously shares a few of her exciting experiences in Nigeria with us on page 16.

Still in the spirit of sharing, two of the boys we featured in the previous issues for achieving an almost impossible feat of securing admission offers from all eight Ivy League universities, and many other top colleges in the United States are back in the news - sharing their knowledge and skills in university admission processes with students keen on acing their college admission tests. For those special secrets, and requisite knowledge, skills and abilities to equal or surpass these young boys’ academic achievements, we got one of them talking to us one-on-one on page 6.

In Sports, Ghana’s Andre Ayew started off his English Premier League with great expectations, and so far, he seems on track. The question is; does the young man (son of threetime African Player of the Year, Abedi Pele) have the heart to take him through the gritty premier league? Find out on page 46.

I can go on and on telling you about all the juicy stuff we painstakingly squeezed into this package, but then, where‘s the fun in that? So go on, turn the pages, you’ll find our exciting regulars included- at no extra charge!

See you next time.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

5

COVER 2

Want to Ace Your Tests?

Listen To The

Brainy Boys – From Africa!

By Betty John | USA

The brainy boys are back! Not too long ago, they hit the national headlines for their astounding feat of securing admission offers from all eight Ivy League universities, and many other top colleges in the country. This time, the boys are back, sharing their knowledge and skills in university admission processes with students keen on acing their college admission tests.

H

privileged school.

Ekeh (Yale University) told CNN Money recently that he teamed up with fellow Ivy Leaguer, Agbafe (Harvard University) to author the book because he wanted to be able to provide a more substantial answer to the persistent question: “how did you do it?”

According to Agbafe, the book “shares our academic strategies for the college application process.” He said the book not only answers the

Think of the amount of work the NBA MVP Stephon Curry puts in to improve every aspect of his jump shot and take this exact mentality to how you approach school when you need motivation. how-did-you-do it question but also, discusses the factors that went into their ultimate choices of universities.

In this exclusive chat with USAfrica Journal, Agbafe grants us a rare glimpse into

Photo: Courtesy Victor Agbafe

arold Ekeh (an immigrant from Nigeria) and Victor Agbafe (son of an immigrant from Nigeria), in collaboration with Frog Tutoring, have teamed up to author an ebook entitled: Hacking College Admissions: How We Got Into Every Ivy League School With $4 Million in Scholarships, And How You Can Too. For every copy sold, Frog Tutoring will donate a copy of the ebook to a student attending an under-

Agbafe, middle and family members.

6

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

his strategy, philosophy, faith and the strong family values that made it all possible.

A lot has been reported about you, but not so much about your family. What is it like in your family?

I have three wonderful siblings. One of my sisters Nnemka is a rising junior in high school and my other sister Nnemdi is four years old. My little brother is a rising sophomore in high school. I have a very supportive family base and at home we really encourage one another to perform well in whatever venture we take on. We have an extended family that is very well interconnected. My grandmother always encourages us to study hard and think about how we can live a life of integrity and have a strong relationship with God.

COVER 2 bly can. For me, it was not about the prestige of the universities that I was admitted to, but rather about working hard in the classroom and engaging in activities I am passionate about outside of the classroom.

So how did you do it?

I feel like there is not a formulaic way to gain admittance to a certain university. I think individuals who are successful in the college admissions process and life in general are people who are engaged with the greater community and the world around them on a daily basis.

It is about engaging in activities you are passionate about and trying to find how you can use this to benefit the

greater community around you and help others. Taking classes or doing extracurricular activities just because you think it will look good on a transcript or resume is not a good thing to do at all because college admissions officers will see through this.

Most importantly, positivity and persistence are important traits to try and embrace.

It is more about how you bounce back from adversity that will determine your outcome.

What advice do you have for other young men and women who want to excel in their studies?

If they are willing to work hard and make sacrifices, they are capable of excelling BRAINY BOYS continued on page 49

What were your parents’ roles in your success and their reactions when they heard the news?

My parents have always pushed me to do the very best that I can, not only in school but in every activity that I am involved in. My mother has always told me that with hard work and prayer anything is possible. She is the hardest working individual I have ever encountered. She works so hard to give us so many opportunities that we take for granted. Naturally, my parents were happy when they heard of my college acceptance but they still constantly encouraged me to

finish my senior year of high school in the best manner possible and not lose sight of what lies before me. They are always stressing the importance of service to others.

Did you at any point in time sit down and set a goal that you want to be offered admission into all eight Ivy Leagues schools?

I never made it a goal to be accepted to all eight Ivy League schools. My focus, my main goal was to gain admission to a University that will provide me with the knowledge and experiences needed to serve my community in the best way I possi-

You must put in that all night study sessions on Saturday even if it means that you miss that college basketball semifinal on ESPN

Christ Apostolic Church of Pennsylvania (Mount of Redemption)

5200 Paschall Ave, Philadelphia, PA 19143 Mail: P. O. Box 2294, Upper Darby, PA 19082 Phone/Fax: 215-724-5711 Email: cacpenn@aol.com Website: www.cacpenn.com Facebook: cacpenn

Come worship with us Bible Study 7:00pm – 9:00pm, Wednesday Prayer Warriors 4:00pm – 6:00pm, Friday Night Vigil 12:00am – 3:00am, Friday Holy Ghost 12:00 am – 3:00am, Last Friday of the month Choir Practice 6:00pm – 8:00pm, Saturday Sunday School 10:00am – 11:00am, Sunday Worship Service 11:00am – 1:30pm, Sunday Office Hours 10:00am – 2:00pm, Monday – Friday Prayerline

10:00pm – 11:00pm, Tuesday Dial 712-432-3900, Access Code 335192#

Pastor C. O. Ogunleye Associate Pastor

Pastor E. O. Odeyale (DS) Pastor-in-Charge

Pastor M. O. Ajayi Associate Pastor

Pastor S. A. Oyeleke Chairman, U.S.A. EDCC USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

7

FAITH-FULL

A Legacy of Service

By Pastor Tim Babatunde | USA

[Previously], I had stated that there is an intricate system of rewards that operates on a give-and-take basis. Let us take a look at a scenario Jesus painted, which clearly captures the events that will occur on the day of Reckoning; Judgement Day to be precise: Then shall the King say unto them on his right hand, Come, ye blessed of my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world: 35 for I was hungry, and ye gave me to eat; I was thirsty, and ye gave me drink; I was a stranger, and ye took me in; 36 naked, and ye clothed me; I was sick, and ye visited me; I was in prison, and ye came

unto me. 37 Then shall the righteous answer him, saying, Lord, when saw we thee hungry, and fed thee? Or athirst, and gave thee drink? 38 And when saw we thee a stranger, and took thee in? Or naked, and clothed thee? 39 And when saw we thee sick, or in prison, and came unto thee? 40 And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you,

As long as we are led by the Spirit of God, whatever acts of service we perform qualify us for the commensurate rewards that come with it.

Inasmuch as ye did it unto one of these my brethren, even these least, ye did it unto me (Matthew 25: 34-40).

Pastor Tim It does not require a degree in rocket science to discern that the persons in the above Scriptures are being rewarded. That is not my focus. Take a closer look at what earned them the reward. They served, with all their heart. They replicated a code of selfless service, based on Biblical principles, to the glory of God of Almighty. Some persons might be quick to point out that they got their reward because they did works; lots of it. Caring for the sick, ministering to the hungry, visiting those in prison; all these acts are serious works.

A LEGACY continued on page 49

CHURCH LISTINGS CONNECTICUT Winners Chapel International 76 Pane Road Newington, CT 06111 860-878-6855 DELAWARE RCCG, Faith Chapel 4112 N. Market Street Wilmington, DE 19802 302-298-9151 RCCG Abundant Life Center 61 Christiana Road Newcastle, DE 19720 302-561-6008

Berhane Wongel Ethiopian Church 6200 N. Artesian Avenue Chicago, IL 60659 MARYLAND MFM 5506 Church Road Bowie, MD 20772 CAC, House of Praise 4909 Edmonston Road Hyattsville, MD 20781 301-864-4788

RCCG, Eagles Wings Chapel 700 Forest Street Dover, DE 19904 302-480-2808

United People Church Intl.

307 N. Bridge Street Suite 207 Elkton, MD 21921 443-433-6252

GEORGIA Church of Grace Ministries 6599 Allred Court Riverdale, GA 30296

NEW JERSEY MFM, Jesus House 409 S. 18th Street Newark, NJ 07103 973-220-0007/862-902-6372

ILLINOIS Christ Healing Evangelical Church (Chapel of Praise) 15821 Greenwood Road South Holland, IL 60473 8

RCCG (Jesus House) 4332 N. Kedzie Avenue Chicago, IL 60618

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

Glorious Light Christian Ministries 104 E Broad Street Paulsboro, NJ 08066 856-224-4925

NEW YORK CAC, Mt. Pleasant of USA 1132 East Tremont Avenue Bronx, NY 10460 718-239-3512 CAC 1st In The Americas 622 Cortelyou Road Brooklyn, NY 11218 718-284-7479

Philadelphia, PA 19139 215-474-5800 RCCG, Living Spring Intern’l Center 2123 N. 1st Avenue, Whitehall, PA 18052 610-264-3790

CAC (WOSEM) 611 Williams Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11208

RCCG, Living Spring Center 919 North Broad Street Philadelphia, PA 19123 215-765-8170

Glorious Morning Star Cherubim and Seraphim Church 289 Saratoga Avenue Brooklyn, NY 11233

Rehoboth Harvest Ministries 931 Hamilton Street, 2nd Floor Allentown, PA 18101

PENNSYLVANIA CAC of PA, Mt. of Redemption 5200 Paschall Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19143 215-724-5711

United Ghanaian Community Church 7501 Oak Lane Road Cheltenham, PA 19012 215-635-4799

CAC Philadelphia 5800-02 Baltimore Avenue Philadelphia, PA 19143 215-921-6703 RCCG, Living Spring Center 5801 Walnut Street

TEXAS RCCG, Household of Faith 5001 New York Avenue Arlington, TX 76018 817-461-8857/817-4614310

CAC, Mercy Field 9621 Southwest Freeway Houston, TX 77074 713-541-4323/713-7059078 Dominion International Center 14030 Beechnut Street Houston, TX 77083 281-293-9997 WASHINGTON DC CAC (WOSEM) 4408 Georgia Avenue Washington DC 20011 202-723-2086 RCCG, New Wine Assembly 1515 Kenilworth Avenue Washington DC 20019 202-398-2211 WISCONSIN RCCG, City of Praise 5112 North 37th Street Milwaukee, WI 53209 414-465-0000

See more listings at www.usafricajournal.com

ADVERTORIAL

CHRIST APOSTOLIC CHURCH OF PENNSYLVANIA MOUNT OF REDEMPTION—OKE IRAPADA 5200 PASCHALL AVENUE, PHILADELPHIA, PA. 19143 ISO ORU (NIGHT VIGIL)

ASALE ITUSILE EVERY THIRD FRIDAY OF THE MONTH

Double Celebration for Mama Fowowe!

F

“Everything na double, double o!

Na double, double!

or our dear mother, Madam Janet Fowowe, it was certainly a double celebration in Villa Rica, Georgia recently. Few months after Mama turned 70 and celebrated the milestone here in the United States with her children and grandchildren, Mama received a special icing on her birthday cake; she became a citizen of the United States of America. From all of us here at USAfrica Journal, we say, Congrats!

10PM -- 1 AM NI OJO ETI (FRIDAY) KETA NI OSOSU ENI TO TONI GBA LOYE KA KEPE OLUWA WA ABAWA PADE LORUKO JESU. AMIN ASIKO TIRE LEYI. OJU RERE OLORUN A WA O RI LORUKO JESU. AMIN PLEASE JOIN US EVERY THIRD FRIDAY OF THE MONTH

Evangelist T. Okunrinkoya Prayer Facilitator

Pastor Emmanuel Odeyale Host Pastor

YOU WILL BE HIGHLY FAVORED LIKE MARY THE MOTHER OF JESUS. GOD WILL REMEMBER YOU FOR GOOD. HE SHALL VISIT YOU LIKE ELIZABETH AND LOCATE YOU THE SAME WAY ZACHARIAH WAS LOCATED SERVING GOD. HIS SITUATION CHANGED. YOUR SITUATION WILL CHANGE FOR GOOD IN JESUS NAME. THE MAD MAN OF GADARENE WAS TRANSFORMED TO AN EVANGELIST. NOW IS YOUR TIME TO BE TRANSFORMED!! IYIPADA OLOGO USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

9

HEALTH

KEEPING MIGRAINES AT BAY:

Five Tips to Manage Your Headache Triggers Frustrated with painful migraine headaches that interfere with daily activities and cause you to miss out what you need to do?

I

f you are a migraine sufferer, avoiding triggers and taking care of yourself can help prevent recurring headache episodes. Read on to find out how you can take control of your migraines rather than having them control you. The most common migraine triggers are:

1. Anxiety or stress • Certain foods and drinks, especially those containing nitrites, glutamate, aspartate, or tyramine • Extreme fatigue or lack of sleep • Hormone changes brought on by menstruation, pregnancy, menopause • Hunger from skipping meals or fasting • Medications such as pain relievers, hormones, and blood pressure medicines • Physical triggers such as head trauma and changes in pressure (being in an airplane, weather changes, and even wearing a tight hat or goggles) • Environmental triggers, such as loud noises, exposure to glare or flickering lights, or strong odors from perfumes, smoke, or chemicals

2. Keep a headache diary to identify your likely triggers If you are not sure what your migraine triggers are, consider keeping a headache diary for one month. Tracking information about your headaches can help you and your healthcare provider figure out what triggers your 10

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

migraines and what improves them.

There are smartphone apps and paper diaries [that you can use for this].

3. Stay away from common food triggers Here are some common dietary culprits that you might try to avoid or have only rarely: • Aged cheeses, such as aged cheddar, blue cheese, Roquefort, and parmesan • Alcohol, especially red wine and some beers • Citrus fruits and juices, such as oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and limes • Coffee and other caffeinated drinks • Cured or processed meats

• Food additives, such as aspartame (a low-calorie sweetener used in drinks and some diet foods) and monosodium glutamate (MSG)

4. Take care of yourself to avoid stress, tiredness, and hunger triggers Try to get a good night’s sleep every night. Go to bed at the same time each night and wake up at the same time each morning. Work on reducing stress in your life. Regular exercise such as walking or swimming can help you to reduce stress that may be causing your migraines. Breathing exercises or relaxation techniques may help.

Eat meals on a similar schedule each day. Don’t skip meals. If you smoke, quit. Try to avoid secondhand smoke.

5. Ask your doctor if your medicines could be a migraine trigger Talk to your doctor about the medicines you are taking and ask about alternatives. Do not stop taking any medicines without consulting with your doctor first. Examples of medicines that may trigger a migraine include prescription and over-the-counter pain relievers, over-the-counter or prescription diet pills, asthma medicines called bronchodilators, ADHD medicines such as Ritalin® or Dexadrine®, birth control pills, hormone replacement therapy, some blood pressure medicines, nitrates, and hydralazine.

This article is not a substitute for medical advice, and is not intended to treat or cure any disease. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid, or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of scientific literature may vary. Consult your healthcare professional before making changes to your diet, exercise, or medication regimen.

Source: RiteAid Wellness

40

Start @

DON’T BECOME A STATISTIC. Start annual mammograms at age 40.

Scientific evidence proves that women should start annual mammograms at age 40. It only takes a few moments of your time … moments that could save your life.

Talk to your doctor today about getting an annual mammogram.

Visit MammographySavesLives.org to: ❑ Clear up confusion about mammograms ❑ Find an accredited mammography center near you ❑ Sign up for an annual e-mail alert to remind you to schedule your mammogram appointment ❑ Share your story

WEDDING BELLS

t deola and detunji’s Wedding

12

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

WEDDING BELLS

WANT YOUR SPECIAL DAY FEATURED IN THIS COLUMN? CALL US AT 530-237-4222, 610-570-9143, OR 215-571-9241.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

13

FOLASOPHICAL

Money By All Means Necessary?

WHAT A MISERABLE LIFE AFTERALL!

Dr. Ojo

By Fola Ojo | USA

In 1923, nine of the wealthiest people in the world met at Chicago’s Edge Water Beach Hotel. Their combined wealth, it was estimated, exceeded the wealth of the Government of the United States at that time.

T

hese men certainly knew how to make a living and accumulate wealth. Attending the meeting were the following men: 1. The president of the largest steel company; 2. The president of the largest utility company; 3. The president of the largest gas company; 4. The president of the New York Stock Exchange; 5. The president of the Bank of International Settlements; 6.

The greatest Wheat Speculator; 7. The greatest “bear” on Wall Street; 8. The head of the World’s greatest monopoly, and 9. A member of President Harding’s cabinet. That’s a pretty impressive

line-up of people by anyone’s yardstick.

Yet, 25 years later, where were those nine industrial giants?

The president of the then largest steel company (Bethlehem Steel Corp), Charles M Schwab, lived on borrowed capital for five years before he died bankrupt; the president of the then largest gas company, Howard Hubson, went insane; one of the greatest commodity traders (wheat speculator), Arthur Cutten, died insolvent; then president of the New York Stock Exchange, Richard Whitney, was sent to jail; the U.S. President Harding’s cabinet mem-

ber, Albert Fall, was pardoned from jail just to be able to go home and die in peace; the greatest “bear” on Wall Street, Jesse Livermore committed suicide; the president of the then world’s greatest monopoly, Ivar Krueger, also killed himself; the president of the Bank of International Settlement, Leon Fraser, equally took his own life while the president of the largest utility company, Samuel Insull, died penniless.

MONEY continued on page 49

Liberty Shipping & Logistic Inc. (SHIPPING & HANDLING WITH NO HASSLES AT A REASONABLE PRICE)

USA: 1214 Broadway, Suite 301, New York NY 10001 Tel: USA (347) 271-7514 (347) 432-4714 (212) 312-1762 Nigeria: 16 Yinusa Adeniji Street, Off Muslim Avenue, Off Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos Tel: 0803 818 5009; 0802 942 6588 Whether your need is cargo, light package, consolidated or direct air freight forwarding service, our expert professionals are ready to route your goods from almost any point in the United States for fast delivery to any state in Nigeria.    

14

COPYRIGHT

Air Cargo Direct Air Freight forwarding Service Barrels and Personal Effects Containers

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

 Full Container Load and Less Than Full Container Load  Barrel and Groupage rates available  3-5 days air cargo to Lagos and other parts of Nigeria

ADVERTORIAL

Celebration galore Faaji Unlimited Food, drinks everywhere, and quite a lot to eat and drink!

What else did you expect when a restaurant noted for exquisite African delicacies turned one?

N

othing less of course. Add the fact that the owner of the restaurant was also celebrating her birthday, and you’ll understand why the party hosted by Faaji Restaurant in the suburb of Philadelphia recently was one-of-a-kind.

In Lansdowne, Pennsylvania, the fanfare shifted to a high gear as Faaji Restaurant, purveyor of exquisite African delicacies marked its first year anniversary and also celebrated the owner, Alhaja Adunola’s birthday.

To commemorate the events, Alhaja

Adunola simply pulled out all stops to give customers, friends, and family a two-in-one stylish celebration.

On hand to add extra bounce to the super charged night of celebrations were the duo of DJs Mollie and Jebo who kept the night jumping with mixes across genre. Endless fun, unlimited sumptuous and delicious cuisine were just part of perks for guests who graced Faaji’s first year anniversary party.

Partying and dancing over for now, Alhaja Adunola, found time to say; “it is really a good thing to have come this far, and be able to have a double celebration such as this, with all these wonderful people around. It’s my birthday; I’m hale and hearty; the business is also doing well; I’m just happy. Going forward, our customers can expect the best from Faaji. We will be making our live music segment even more exciting by featuring top African musicians in the country, and we are constantly adding new and exciting items to the menu, so we can better cater to the nutritional needs of our customers.”

Alhaja Adunola USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

15

TRAVELS

In Sync with the Soundscapes of Lagos

By Johanna Wild | USA

Lagos is a city that you cannot take in in one breath. Having been here for almost three weeks, I have barely scratched the surface of this bustling, hectic, roiling city of extremes. It can be quite unnerving to arrive at an unfamiliar city for the first time, especially when it is located in a country burdened by plenty of stigma in the international press. But again and again, Lagos has proven its naysayers wrong.

F

irst and foremost, I must mention the unremitting hospitality and helpfulness of the various people I have encountered here so far. It started as soon as I arrived at the Murtala Muhammed International airport. Standing by the baggage claim, tired but restless with anticipation for the thirty days ahead, the man next to me, a Nigerian pharmacist living in North Carolina, strikes up a conversation.

Having learned that I am in Lagos for the first time to complete a fellowship with the OYASAF (Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Art Foundation) and will have to locate my host without the convenience of a local phone number, he immediately offers his assistance. We jointly leave the security area with our suitcases in tow only to be greeted by a cluster of people offering taxi rides, hotel rooms and money exchanges. We make our way outside, followed by a trail of people recommending their services, as he calls OYASAF employee Emmanuel who should be there to fetch me. Familiar to me only through a picture previously sent via email, Emmanuel approaches with relief, hugs me like an old friend, only to yell at me immediately for having confidently stridden 16

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

past his attempts at catching my attention outside of the gate, eyes steady on my recent acquaintance.

Having bid my first Nigerian friend goodbye, Emmanuel secures us a taxi to take me to the apartment in Anthony Village, Maryland, where I will be living for the duration of my stay. It soon becomes clear that the familiar paintings and photographs of Lagos’ expressways are no mere exaggeration.

The streets are populated by the characteristic yellow buses holding up traffic as they absorb and release passengers along the road and the okadas (motorbikes) that weave their way through traffic with a lot of skill but an often dangerous disregard for traffic laws. The division of the road into lanes is largely ignored as cars find the path of least resistance, signaling their switching of lanes through loud honking. In the midst of all this seemingly organized chaos, street traders offer snacks, drinks, and various items ranging from bookshelves to clothing, waived down by drivers for a quick commercial exchange as traffic decelerates. While this traffic is fascinating for me as a visitor and allows me to take in the city at a slow pace, for most people employed across

Lagos it is an annoying but expected part of their everyday lives, requiring them to dedicate hours of their days for commutes and often making timely appointments difficult to meet.

At my apartment I am introduced to Abigail, the fifteen year-old daughter of the landlord. She knocks on my door on the second night and offers her assistance in helping me navigate the neighborhood and getting set up in Lagos. I would learn, for instance, how to switch my electricity circuit to be supplied by the generator during power outages or that supermarkets in this neighborhood sell various dry goods and foods, while vegetables and fruits are purchased at carts and stalls on the street. Abigail shows me where I can find the best spicy, red rodo peppers used in many of the local dishes and allows me to watch her prepare a variety of them in the course of my time here. Clearly, she is not at all impressed that, as a thirty-two year old woman, I am at a total loss as to how to prepare some of the staple foods found here, such as cassava, okra, or pounded yam. After our first cooking sessions, she sends me home with containers of delicious okra soup or chicken in a spicy sauce made of red pepper, onion, and tomatoes.

I would learn, for instance, how to switch my electricity circuit to be supplied by the generator during power outages

TRAVELS I have learned to hail down the women who gracefully carry large baskets with freshly baked bread on their heads, to purchase a fresh loaf in the morning. As I repeat the daily 15-minute walk to the nearby art foundation, women selling roasted corn, African butter pear, and the deep-fried, spiced bean cakes (Akara) at the side of the road, wave and yell “Welcome, Oyibo!

Throughout my stay I gradually become more acquainted with my neighborhood and the people that inhabit it. I have learned to hail down the women who gracefully carry large baskets with freshly baked bread on their heads, to purchase a fresh loaf in the morning. As I repeat the daily 15-minute walk to the nearby art foundation, women selling roasted corn, African butter pear, and the deep-fried, spiced bean cakes (Akara) at the side of the road, wave and yell “Welcome, Oyibo!” As I will later learn, “oyibo” is a Nigerian word of Yoruba origins that means “white person.” My morning walks along the winding, busy roads stand in stark contrast to the quiet serenity of the foundation where I work. OYASAF is a peaceful, beautifully landscaped sanctuary populated with art, fountains, peacocks, and various other animals. Over the last forty years, OYASAF founder Prince Yemisi Shyllon has assembled over 7000 works of art with the intention of documenting the history of Nigerian art in its breadth. Among many other activities, he annually hosts graduate students from Nigeria and abroad to encourage the study and appreciation of Nigerian art of the past and present.

It is no surprise to me that one of the Nigerian artists popularly received internationally today is the sound and video artist Emeka Ogboh. Ogboh documents the invigorating and, at times, tiring cacophony of aural and visual stimuli that characterize the Lagos experience. Sitting in my apartment in Anthony Village on the mainland, I can continually witness the varying soundscapes of the city throughout the day: honking cars, market women hollering, music emanating from various shops, the humming sound of the omnipresent generators, the prayer calls of the mosques, women singing in the neighboring church on Sunday mornings, boys playing soccer outside my window, children yelling or crying, a group of people parading through the street with drums, singing and dancing. Having been here for only a month, I can already imagine the nostalgia that Ogboh’s vivid soundscapes might stir for this bustling city amongst Nigeria’s own living abroad.

 Intellectually Stimulating  Visually Appealing  Professionally Packaged

Get Quality Get Value 0 le as 5 For as litt ay! d e p cents r

YOUR AD LOOKS AND FARES BETTER IN

USAfrica Journal

IT’S NOTHING PERSONAL; IT’S STRICTLY BUSINESS!

Call our ad hotlines:

USA: 1 215 571 9241 Africa: 234 8055564580/7041253004 234 7084554584/8171897153

EARN EXTRA $$$ WRITE FOR USAFRICA JOURNAL USAfrica Journal is now accepting articles for publication in its next issue. We welcome commentaries, cartoons, general news features, business/finance features, personality/celebrity interviews, sports features, profiles, fashion, lifestyle, health, arts, book, music and movie reviews, etc.

If you can craft timeless and hundred percent original stories suitable for publication in a quality serious periodical catering to people of African descent in the United States and Diaspora, let’s see a sample of your work or a pitch.

Unsolicited materials are welcome but we do not guarantee usage in any form or shape. Knowledge of AP style is a plus but not a must. We reserve the right to reject or edit submissions to conform to space, style, and accuracy standards.

Send submissions as word document to: editor@usafricajournal.com

Johanna Wild is a Ph.D. Candidate in the Department of Art and Art History at the University of New Mexico.

She is currently a fellow at the OYASAF (Omooba Yemisi Adedoyin Shyllon Art Foundation), a Lagos-based art collection incorporated by Prince Yemisi Shyllon in 2007. For more information see http://www.nigerianartoyasaf.org/.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

17

ADVERTORIAL

H

Surprise! Surprise!

Adetolu @ 55

ow do you stop a man dead on his tracks, mouth agape, yet filled with inexplicable joy from within?

Throw a surprise birthday party for him!

That is exactly what Lydia Adetolu and her children, Omokanyisola, Oluwatobi, Chris and Grace did few weeks ago in Philadelphia in honor of Christopher Sunday Adetolu. After weeks of careful planning and clandestine consultations with family and friends across the States, and abroad, Lydia and the kids finally got one over their darling husband and dad who hit the double-five mark recently.

Surprised? Yes. Speechless? Not quite.

For a man who just turned five (considering life begins at 50), Adetolu recovered from his dazed state pretty quickly to put on his “boogie” shoes and danced to his heart’s delight. In-between dance steps and mingling with guests who came to honor him on his 55th birthday, Adetolu managed to say exclusively to USAfrica Journal: “I just want to thank everyone, especially my darling wife and wonderful children for making this a special day.

You’re all awesome.”

And the master brain behind the surprise birthday bash, Adetolu’s darling wife, Lydia told the guests: “The reason why I and the children decided to celebrate their dad and the jewel of my life is mainly to give thanks to God for His mercies, blessings and grace all through the years, especially this year on my family.”

To everyone, including her guests from out of state and the United Kingdom whom she had to hide from her husband, she said; “Thank you, thank you, and God bless you all.”

IF IT MATTERS, IT'S HERE! YOUR EVENTS CAN BE HERE TOO. CALL 215 571 9241 OR 610 570 9143.

18

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

ADVERTORIAL

IF IT MATTERS, IT'S HERE! YOUR EVENTS CAN BE HERE TOO. CALL 215 571 9241 OR 610 570 9143.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

19

ADVERTORIAL

IF IT MATTERS, IT'S HERE! YOUR EVENTS CAN BE HERE TOO. CALL 215 571 9241 OR 610 570 9143.

20

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

Photos: USAfrica Journal

ADVERTORIAL

IF IT MATTERS, IT'S HERE! YOUR EVENTS CAN BE HERE TOO. CALL 215 571 9241 OR 610 570 9143.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

21

VENUE: Christ Apostolic Church of Pennsylvania (Mount of Redemption) 5200 Paschall Avenue, Philadelphia, PA 19143

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

I Do God; I Hate the N-Word

Oyelowo

M

onths after the Academy of Arts and Sciences came under fierce criticism from around the world for excluding David Oyelowo from the Best Actor nomination list at this year’s Oscar Awards, Oyelowo is not only garnering accolades from far and near but also generating a big buzz within and outside tinseltown; this time, with his views. “[…] I must say I hate the N-word, particularly when black people use it about themselves,” Oyelowo said in an interview with theguardian of London.

“It’s like chitlins: the offal that was a delicacy for slaves. It’s the small intestine of a pig. People get so used to eating something substandard that in order to survive they have to take ownership of it. But it doesn’t change the fact that it’s still the most disgusting

part of the animal! Just because you’ve reappropriated it, that doesn’t detoxify it. That’s how I feel about the N-word.”

And as if that wasn’t discomfiting enough for an industry that prefers their leading men (and women) sticking to the script as written by “Hollywood,” Oyelowo is saying it as he feels it! While Hollywood would rather have actors keep God out of their conversations, especially in public, Oyelowo has gone on record to balk the trend, by openly professing his faith.

Responding to the interviewer’s question about whether he has ever been advised to save his religious faiths and references to God in press interviews for the church, Oyelowo said unequivocally: “Well, I do do God,” he said. “One of the best things about success coming 16 years into being an

Photo: PAFF

-Oyelowo

actor is that you know yourself. And yes, people have said, ‘Erm, you may want to slow down on that. Ease up.’

But if you’re just a talker not a doer, then don’t expect to effect real change.

My faith is something that’s efficacious.

It turns out God has really great taste.

When I pray to him about which roles I should do, it’s a great guide. When I first read Selma, he told me I was going to play that part. And having been told by him that it was going to happen, I knew it would.”

Nigeria’s Gospel Musicians Seek Revival

By Esther Olatunde | USA

The maiden edition of the All Nigeria Gospel Music Revival and Conference (ANGOMREC) will be held at the Administrative Staff College of Nigeria (ASCON) Topo Village, Badagry, from September 28 to 30 this year.

T

he three-day event will feature seminars, workshops, talks, sports, and visits to The AKRAN Tourist Center in Badagry. Keynote speakers and participants and renowned gospel music ministers are expected from within and outside Nigeria.

A star-studded gospel music concert is planned to wrap up the festivities.

With barely weeks to gotime, ANGOMREC has garnered quite a substantial following and support in, and outside the social media. As

of mid-August this year, virtually every Nigerian gospel musician of note, and several major stakeholders in the industry have hopped on the bandwagon and signified their support for the initiative.

Described by the organizers as the initiative of the gospel music ministers, by the gospel music ministers, for the gospel music ministers to trigger kingdom revolution in our music ministry; the three-day event is also aimed at assisting the Nigeria’s gospel musicians

to have a deeper knowledge and understanding of the purposes of their calling.

“We want to stimulate our souls and awaken our spirits with the Word and spirit-filled songs,” Timi Orokoya (a.k.a. Telemi), who is the facilitator of the impassioned discussion on social media said. “This is truly an initiative of all gospel musicians in Nigeria. I am just a vessel. This is an initiative that is open to all gospel musicians anywhere in Nigeria, and even in the Diaspora.”

Revd. Timi Orokoya - Telemi

According to Telemi, “with the guidance of the Holy Spirit, the conference will be an avenue for us to come together and prayerfully examine the state of the Nigerian gospel music scene critically. There will be discussions on various topics ranging from copyright, creativity, composition, artiste management and so on and so forth. We will look at several aspects of gospel music with a view to identifying, and then proffering solutions to identified challenges.”

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

23

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

Just Who is

William Onyeabor?

By Alex Baker | USA

William Onyeabor is arguably among the most mysterious figures in the history of popular music. Hailing from Enugu, Nigeria, Onyeabor is an obscure electronic musician who self-released eight innovative synth-funk albums between 1977 and 1985.

O

nyeabor played most of the instruments on the albums himself and shared lead vocal duties with various female vocalists. He had his own studio and even built his own plant to press the albums. In part, the product of a fertile Nigerian rock and funk scene that burst out in the late 60s and early 70s, Onyeabor’s sound was nonetheless, quite different from the other bands and artists of the era.

While elements of the African highlife and rock

24

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

sounds that were in fashion at the time are present on Onyeabor’s albums, it’s his innovative use of synthesizers that was so ahead of its time.

There’s an exploratory sense to the way Onyeabor used the Moog and his other array of synths that, along with his quirky, neo-futuristic album covers, is a big part of what makes him such an intriguing figure. While he registered a few hits in Africa at the time, Onyeabor was mostly unknown to the rest of the world during his active years. Then

quite suddenly, for reasons that are as mysterious as the otherworldly, celebratory, but haunting music he made, Onyeabor walked away from it all, found religion, and started a new life running a semolina factory.

Over the years, his track “Better Change Your Mind” surfaced on compilations like Africa 100, World Psychedelic Classics 3 and Nigeria 70.

Gradually interest in Onyeabor began to snowball as celebrity fans like Damon Albarn of Blur and DJ Carl Craig professed their admiration for his off-kilter yet resonant sound. This eventually led to David Byrne releasing a compilation of Onyeabor’s tracks, Who Is William Onyeabor? on his Luaka Bop label. Like other previously unearthed obscurities such as Rodriguez and Shuggie Otis, Onyeabor’s sound and mysterious backstory made for a compelling cocktail, appealing to hipsters and DJs initially and gradually to a wider array of music fans.

While Onyeabor’s offbeat yet extremely catchy synth funk is instantly appealing, part of his appeal lies in his mystique. While the music is there for the listening, the story of the man is one that’s

shrouded in mystery. According to one narrative, Onyeabor studied filmmaking in the Soviet Union. Another version has it that he was a lawyer who studied law at Oxford. A former producer of Onyeabor claimed he had initially tried and failed to become a filmmaker. But he found his breakthrough in using synthesizers to compose soundtracks for his movies.

One of the most compelling aspects of the Onyeabor mystery is just how an obscure musician in Nigeria in the mid-70s with no financial backing, could have amassed such an array of modern synthesizers, sequencers and recording equipment. One particularly bizarre rumor has it that the communist government in Russia may have financed him. Even Fantastic Man, a documentary done by Vice Music website, Noisey, was unable to truly get to the bottom of just who William Onyeabor is and what inspired him to make such strange and beautiful music at a time when no one else was doing anything like it. And more notably, why he chose to walk away from it all.

Now a High Chief in Enugu and a Christian pastor, Onyeabor declined to be interviewed for the Vice documentary and generally refuses to discuss himself or his music to anyone. In December of 2014, Onyeabor did actually make an appearance on the Lauren Lavern Show on BBC 6 Music. Stating that he would “only create music that will help the world,” the reclusive artiste also announced he was planning to release new material. However despite international interest in his work being greater than it ever was during his active years, no new music has yet been forthcoming from him.

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT

A Continent for the Taking:

The Tragedy and Hope of Africa

By Friederike Knabe | Canada

I

t would have been a gigantic undertaking to write Howard W. French’s kind of book about all of Africa. Africa is, after all, a large continent with the greatest diversity in species, ecosystems, peoples, languages and histories.

French does not attempt such a challenge. His primary focus is the part of Africa that he knows best, Central Africa, and its complex history since independence. While he draws some general conclusions for Africa, resulting from the colonial carving up of the continent, his concern are the events in “the heart of Africa”. Given the common misconception that Africa can be regarded as one unitary region, the title, “A Continent for the Taking” strikes me as somewhat unsuitable and the subtitle as misleading. Only a few chapters relate French’s travels in other countries, all in West Africa, and almost all struggling with their own post-colonial catastrophes such as Sierra Leone and Liberia. One notable exception is Mali where recent history has demonstrated that democratic development is possible despite political, environmental challenges and severe poverty of the vast majority of the population. Here, French finds some hope among the tragedies.

French feels privileged for his position given his personal background and family connections in and to the region. As West Africa representative for the New York Times between 1994 and 1998, he traveled extensively in the region. The book records one major political crisis after another: most of those happened to occur in Zaire in the last years of Mobutu’s reign.

French writes with great empathy and passion for the peoples living in Central Africa, the two Congos, one of them the former Zaire, as well as the displaced refugees from Rwanda. They are the real victims of the regimes and the continuing power plays by western governments. These are more interested, he suggests, in the exploitation of rich natural resources, oil, diamonds and metals, than in good governance and democratic participation by the population.

He interleaves his investigative reporting of events with descriptions of his encounters with many individuals, whether opposition leaders, artists, Hutu refugees or just plain village folk suffering from the fighting in their surroundings.

His direct approach invites the reader to follow his travels into remote areas of the lush rainforests or the wide rangTHE TRAGEDY continued on page 49 USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

25

ADVERTORIAL

Celebration of Life: Madam Dorcas O. Benson

C

elebrating a life well spent could be done in many ways. One could simply give thanks to God for the grace to live to the very ripe age of 105! On the other hand, one could also roll out the drums and herald the passing of an aged, loved one with fanfare and culture.

Well, for a full and blessed life such as that of late Madam Dorcas Aina Oladiwura Olatunji Benson, you do all

and more! Recently in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the children and grandchildren of the late centenarian, and their families in Nigeria, Europe and North America celebrated the life of their late mother in style.

At the Memorial Service held at the Christ Apostolic Church, Mount of Redemption, Philadelphia to mark her transition to a higher state of being, the family gave thanks to God for

their mother’s fruitful life. Speaking on behalf of the family, Mrs. Stella Ola Benson Mulbah said Mama was a very strong pillar that ensured the success and happiness of her children at all times. She described her as a loving mother who loved her family and inlaws passionately and indiscriminately. “You will forever be remembered as the best mom, grandmother and great-grandmother ever!” she said.

IF IT MATTERS, IT'S HERE! YOUR EVENTS CAN BE HERE TOO. CALL 215 571 9241 OR 610 570 9143.

26

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

Photos: USAfrica Journal

ADVERTORIAL

IF IT MATTERS, IT'S HERE! YOUR EVENTS CAN BE HERE TOO. CALL 215 571 9241 OR 610 570 9143.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

27

BUSINESS

Don’t Travel To Nigeria

Get Your BVN In USA! As part of its efforts towards the full implementation of the Bank Verification Number (BVN) Project, the Central Bank of Nigeria, in collaboration with key stakeholders in the Nigeria banking industry, has finalized the guidelines for the enrolment of Nigerian banks’ customers in diaspora.

A

statement issued by the Central Bank of Nigeria and signed

by Dipo Fatokun, director of banking and payment system department, listed two options by which Nigerian banks’ customers in diaspora can obtain the their BVNs without traveling to Nigeria. The first option is for the customers of Nigerian banks to present themselves to the offshore branches/ subsidiaries of any Nigerian Deposit Money Bank (where such facilities have been made available)

28

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

for the enrolment for the BVN. The Nigerian banks abroad would obtain the necessary data from the customers, generate a BVN and communicate same to the customers. The customers

are expected to forward the assigned BVN to their banks, for linkage with their accounts. A web portal to achieve this linkage to bank accounts has been developed and deployed, while the process of such linkage will be made available by NIBSS to all those enrolled abroad.

The second option is to use the services of a consultant, Online Integrated Solutions (OIS), engaged specifically to establish stations for data capture and generation of BVN at a fee of 30 GBP (thirty British Pounds or its equivalent) per transaction, payable by the customer. The company is expected to capture necessary data for online transmission to NIBSS, who would thereafter generate the BVN and communicate same to the customer. The statement advised customers to contact OIS for the BVN, if they do not receive any communication from NIBSS within 48 hours after DON’T TRAVEL continued on page 50

ADVERTORIAL

Rejoicing With Rev. (Dr.) Moses Suah-Dennis “Blessed are all who fear the LORD, who walk in obedience to him.

You will eat the fruit of your labor; blessings and prosperity will be yours.”

Psalm 128: 1-2 (NIV) In Rev Moses Suah-Dennis’s life, those prophetic words of God came to life, again. Mid this year, Rev Suah-Dennis, the resident pastor of Faith Immanuel Lutheran Church, East Lansdowne, Pennsylvania bagged a Doctor of Ministry degree from the Lutheran Theological Seminary in Philadelphia. To commemorate his academic achievements, even while he serves and shines in the vineyard of the Lord, the community joined him and his wife, Helena L. J. Dennis to say’ “Thank You Lord,” for His blessings and mercies.

IF IT MATTERS, IT'S HERE! YOUR EVENTS CAN BE HERE TOO. CALL 215 571 9241 OR 610 570 9143.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

29

NEWS-AFRICA Photo: en.wikipedia.org

In Liberia Bye Bye to EBOLA The World Health Organization (WHO) has declared Liberia free of Ebola virus transmission in the human population.

More than forty-two days have passed since the second negative test on July 22, 2015 of the last laboratory-confirmed case. Liberia has now entered a 90-day period of heightened surveillance.

L

iberia’s ability to effectively respond to the outbreak of Ebola virus disease is due to intensified vigilance and rapid response by the government and multiple partners.

Transmission had been declared over previously on May 9, 2015, but the disease re-emerged on June 29 and six additional cases were identified.

On June 29, 2015, midway through the first 90-day period, a routine post-mortem swab taken from a 17year old male, who died on June 28, tested positive for Ebola virus disease.

Upon confirmation of this positive case, a specialized team was immedi-

ately dispatched and undertook a detailed investigation.

Under the leadership of the Liberian Government authorities, an effective response was rapidly initiated to contain the new outbreak. International partners supported the government in areas such as technical assistance, provision of personnel, food, supplies and equipment.

Ultimately, an additional five cases arose out of this re-emergence of the disease in Liberia. Out of six cases, there were two deaths. There were no infections or deaths among health-care workers.

Ellen Johnson Sirleaf

WHO commends the Government of Liberia and its people on the successful response to this recent re-emergence. It is in full accord with government calls for sustained vigilance.

WHO has pledged continued support for the country during the 90 days of heightened surveillance that began September 3, 2015.

SOURCE: WHO

Cameroon and Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) have signed two agreements: one creating a $20 million, five-year Partnership Programme aimed at promoting agricultural development in the Central African nation; the other establishing an expanded Partnership and Liaison office in Yaounde, the country’s capital.

T

he agreements were signed by Pierre Moukoko Mbonjo, Cameroon’s Minister of External Relations; Essimi Menye, the country’s Minister for Agriculture and Rural Development; and FAO Director-General

30

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

José Graziano da Silva, during a twoday official visit.

The new FAO/ Cameroon Partnership Programme (FCPP) will focus on national priorities as set forth in the FAO Country Programming Frame-

Photo: Neil Palmer Photography

Cameroon Partners with FAO, Earmarks $20m for Agriculture work for Cameroon. Priorities include implementing national strategies to boost rural growth, promoting agricultural jobs for youth and women, and developing and implementing policies and strategies to build the resilience of rural populations to disasters and crises.

The Programme also foresees the possibility of support to South-South CAMEROON continued on page 50

ADVERTORIAL

Forever Yummy for Lelia!

D It was a night like no other in the city of Newark, not because the stars were up in the sky in any peculiar or particular way, but because in the words of the groom’s mom, gorgeous Princess Titilola Arojojoye, “this is the day the Lord has made, and it is marvelous in our eyes. We will rejoice and

be glad in it.” And that was exactly what we all did: We went; we rejoiced and celebrated with Yomi and Leila as they embarked on their forever journey!

Here’s a glimpse of the joyful night adorned with the usual frills and trimmings of royalty.

Photos: USAfrica Journal

ateline: Newark, New Jersey.

Few weeks ago, the families of Late Darryl Alfred Wells Sr. and Vilma Wells, and Michael Ogunmoyela and Princess Titilola Arojojoye hosted friends and families to a lavish, upscale engagement party for their children, Lelia Wells and Abayomi (Yomi) Babatunde.

IF IT MATTERS, IT'S HERE! YOUR EVENTS CAN BE HERE TOO. CALL 215 571 9241 OR 610 570 9143.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

31

COVER 1

Mama Nike

Still Leading In A Man’s World

By Tunde Kolawole | USA

From the fine sands and interlocking concrete pavements of Lekki Peninsula, Lagos, the imposing white building rose majestically and stood its ground firmly. Amidst a number of equally noteworthy architectural masterpieces off Lekki/Epe Expressway, Nike Arts Center heralded its own existence, not surprisingly, with an artistic ambience hard to ignore.

32

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

Photo: Nike Center for Arts and Culture

F

rom about a quarter of a mile to its location, the adorning red roof of the building, (strategically festooned grandly with the words: NIKE ARTS CENTRE) proclaimed and beckoned irresistibly to the world bustling around it.

I yielded to the call.

I haven’t seen Chief Mrs. Nike Okundaye (a.k.a Mama Nike), the world renowned artist in well over a decade, but there she was on this sunny Sunday at the five-floor ultra-modern cultural art center bearing her name, still standing tall, regal and clearly in charge and at ease in her elements. Keeping her company, as usual, in the gallery were creative masterpieces, and enduring arts of various forms and shapes spanning generations of renowned old and new artists.

I took it all in, and exhaled.

Regardless of which direction you turned, the ubiquitous artistic gems in the gallery spoke volumes. Physically inaudible, yet loud and clear to those in tune with the pervasive spirits of creative muses oozing off the princely artworks on the walls and floors of the five-story gallery.

I felt the soothing blast of their breath.

“The spirits lead and I simply follow,” Mama Nike said after we exchanged pleasantries.

“I talk to my works, and they talk back. The moment I start working on a project, the spirit working with me at that particular moment

Nike

tells me exactly what to do. So, I generally do not know what a finished work will look like until it is all done. I sketch, draw, paint, create until the spirit working through me says, ‘it’s over; stop!’”

Hearkening to the voices within, and around her has certainly paid off for Mama Nike. For one, our meeting point this afternoon, the multi-million dollars Nike Arts Center purposely built as a world class gallery on choice real estate location in Lagos, is a long way from the rural village of Ogidi Ijumu, Kogi State, Nigeria where Mama Nike hailed from.

The young girl who couldn’t go beyond elementary school because her parents couldn’t afford to send her to school now holds workshops and gives lectures at top colleges and universities around the world. And at this point in her career,

Mama Nike is certainly light years away from Oshogbo, Osun State where her foray into the world of arts began over four decades ago.

The guiding forces and voices of the spirits have no doubt found in her a worthy vessel for their messages. Between then and now, Mama Nike has risen from her humble beginnings to become a leading African artist dedicated to the cause of using arts to empower young and often indigent people from several parts of Nigeria. Nike Centers for Arts and Culture in Oshogbo, Ogidi, Abuja, and Lagos regularly host hundreds of visitors, art enthusiasts, collectors, students and researchers from within and outside Nigeria. Across Africa, Europe and North America, Mama Nike has garnered numerous awards and recognitions for her works and efforts at bettering the lot of the Nigeria’s rural women in particular. Just this past June in the United States, the National Black Theatre, New York honored her with the Dr. Barbara Ann Teer Spirit Award for, according to Sade Lythcott, the Chief Executive Officer of National Black Theater, “creating opportunities, free, for all women who want to learn the indigenous crafts of the ancestors and for being a warrior, a spirit warrior that is transforming our globe through her arts, her spirit, and her visions.”

I could chat ad infinitum with Mama Nike about her huge and magnificent visions but as it is so often the case, time was not our friend. As always, her plates were full, and I had very limited time to catch up with her. Yet, like a good mother, she weaved in and out of her many tasks for the day to quieten my inquisitive spirit.

The Arts Center in Oshogbo and other places are still up and running, training hundreds of people. Your works are all over the world. Why put up a gallery here?

It is good that we are training people and many of them have become independent, but there are still many challenges out there for the artists, es-

Photo: Nike Center for Arts and Culture

Photo: USAfrica Journal

COVER 1

If anyone had told me I would come this far and be successful, I would have called the person a liar to his/her face.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

33

COVER 1

pecially the young and relatively new ones. Training is one part, exposure is another; and that is crucial. I have always wanted artists, no matter how small, to have a voice. I wanted every artist’s voice to be heard. Having a voice increases their chances of success. So the main reason for building this specifically as a gallery is to offer the much needed platform for artists’ voices to be heard. If they are heard, and in turn successful, then my dream of spreading African arts throughout the world and letting the unborn generations know that our culture is very rich becomes and remains a reality. I’ve always wanted to have and leave a legacy that will enable young and upcoming artists to continue producing and creating even better works than what we the older ones have done.

Speaking of leaving a legacy of traditional arts and culture for the young ones to embrace and take to greater heights; so far, do you see that happening?

Yes. Look at Baba Bruce [Onobrakpeya]. You can see from his body of works that if anything should happen to him today, his legacy will continue.

Same thing with my works and those of many other notable Nigerian artists.

Within my immediate family, despite having advanced degrees in various 34

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

disciplines, all my children are into arts. Outside the family, I see young artists rising and doing very well.

The Arts Center that I created in Oshogbo has trained so many

You’ve been doing this for over forty years; now you have this gallery here to exhibit your works and those of others. Could you be thinking of retiring anytime soon?

No. That’s not the case. I enjoy doing this. I don’t get tired doing it. The works constantly talk to me. I cannot sit down and not do anything. There’s always something for me to do. Whether I’m here at the gallery, or stuck in traffic, I always have my pen close by. Art relaxes me. Oftentimes, I am at the mercy of the spirits guiding my hand.

Every stroke is at the behest of the spirit of that par-

Photo: Nike Center for Arts and Culture

Photo: USAfrica Journal

artists who are now independent on their own, working as artists and earning decent living from their works. So I think we are on the right path.

ticular work I’m working on. The spirit tells me what to do. For instance, see the face emerging from this piece [She picked up a drawing she was working on and showed me]. When the spirit that is working with me says; put an eye here or there, put the firewood right at this spot, I comply. So the spirit is the driver taking me wherever it wants me to go. When and where it stops is where I stop. Once done, I feel relaxed.

The artwork talking to you only a while ago now starts speaking to multitude across the world. It does not matter what your language is, it speaks to you.

It’s like therapy.

As a young girl back in Ogidi, even in Oshogbo, did you ever see yourself where you are right now – a world renowned artist in your own ultra-modern gallery?

NO. If anyone had told me I would come this far and be successful, I would have called the person a liar to his/her face. Because then, I went into it for the

Photo: Nike Center for Arts and Culture

COVER 1 love I had, and still have for arts, and also to fill the void created by my lack of formal education. I realized early on that this is the only work I can do and enjoy tremendously, so I decided to package myself appropriately and just continue honing my skills and improving myself in various ways. What you see today is the result of years of dedication, hard work, perseverance and true love for the arts.

So everything is well and rosy now, there are no more challenges?

Of course not! There are still times I can hardly buy diesel for the electricity generator. One of our major challenges, and I would say for any business owner here is lack of stable electricity supply. We spend a lot in that regard to keep the gallery going. Secondly, security is another thorn in our flesh.

The art lovers and collectors who come from various parts of the world to buy MAMA NIKE continued on page 50

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

35

POLITICS

Buhari’s First 100 days in office:

Passing or Failing?

By Mahmud Abubakar | Nigeria

More than 100 days after President Muhammadu Buhari was sworn in as the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, many of the promises his party made to the electorates are yet to be fulfilled.

36

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

the time it sets for itself, the government has nonetheless taken some bold steps towards dealing with the Boko Haram menace. The President has reached out and held series of meetings with his counterparts from the neighboring countries of Chad, Cameroon, Benin, and Niger with a view to finding a lasting solution to the problem.

Recent arrests of alleged Boko haram members at the Nnamdi Azikwe Airport in Abuja and Enugu, and the aerial bombardment of locations believed to be the insurgents’ hide-out are indications of Buhari’s resolve to deal decisively with the Boko Haram issue.

For the masses of youth who joined the change train and helped unseat the Muhammadu Buhari

Photo Credit: Kelechi Amadi Obi

E

xpectedly, his publicity secretary, Alhaji Lai Mohammed has come out to defend his boss. In an interview with TV Continental, Mohammed absolved the President of any blame as far as fulfilling promises made during electioneering within the 100day milestone is concerned. Mohammed said the President did not sign any document which ties him to achieving any specific number of goals in his first 100 days in office.

Like many others who took to social media to register their disappointments, political activist and blogger, Kayode Ogundamisi said the ruling party was wrong to deny making such promises to Nigerians.

“It’s not true for APC to say there wasn’t any promise made for first 100 days,” Ogundamisi wrote. “Lai Mohammed is being economical with the truth and if President Buhari appoints him information minister, I would migrate to Siberia.”

Ogundamisi was right. APC did make promises. Even now, some of the gigantic billboards that carried APC’s campaign messages still stand firm across some of Nigeria’s major cities.

One of the billboards located in the central business district of the country’s capital Abuja has this message: “Defeating Boko Haram is a task that could be achieved within 3 months (less than 100 days) so vote right to end insurgency in Nigeria.”

While the Buhari government has failed to deliver on that promise within

previous government, the President’s party promised to do something urgently about the high rate of unemployment among the youth. It also promised that within 100 days of being sworn in, the Buhari government will design a program through which unemployed graduates would receive N5000 monthly financial assistance until they get a job.

It’s been more than 100 days since Buhari was sworn in but the government is yet to say or do anything about that promise. The youth are speaking out on social media.

“APC government, I am still waiting for my N5000 monthly as promised, which made me vote for you but I’m yet to see anything,” an unemployed graduate, Edwin Simon wrote.

Shortly before the 100th day anniversary, John Emeka wrote; “it’s getting to 100 days and I’m yet to see much difference between this regime and the last in terms of promises kept.”

Expressed disappointments over unfulfilled promises notwithstanding, there’s a sense of optimism in the country that things can only get better. For now, electricity supply in some areas seems to have improved; the legislators, seen by many people in the country as lazy money grabbers have had their salaries slashed; and there hasn’t been a single scandal by any government official yet.

Of major concern however, are the recent appointments by President Buhari which many people have criticized

POLITICS as being heavily in favor of the northern part of the country which is where the president hailed from, but his special adviser, media and publicity, Femi Adesina has been quoted in the media as saying more appointments are on the way and all sections of the country would be taken care of. Meanwhile,

sources at Aso Rock said President Buhari will announce his ministers soon, and that he would also use the occasion to announce the start date for the N5000 monthly stipend promised the youth.

President Buhari’s first 100 days in office has come and gone but many of

Buhari’s Appointments So Far 1. Aide de Camp to president: Lt. Col Abubakar Lawal, (Kano State, North-West) 2. Special Adviser, Media and Publicity to the president: Femi Adesina, (Osun State, South-West).

3. Senior Special Assistant, Media and Publicity: Garba Shehu, (Kano State, North-West).

4. State Chief of Protocol/Special Assistant (Presidential Matters): Lawal Abdullahi Kazaure, (Jigawa State, North-West).

5. Accountant General of the Federation: Ahmed Idris (Kano State, North-West) 6. National Security Adviser: Babagana Monguno (Borno State, North-East) 7. Chief of Defence Staff: Abayomi Olonishakin, (Ekiti State, South-West) 8. Chief of Army Staff: Tukur Buratai, (Borno State, North-East) 9. Chief of Naval Staff: Ibok-Ete Ekwe Ibas, (Cross Rivers, South-South)

10. Chief of Air Staff: Sadique Abubakar, (Bauchi State, North-East) 11. Chief of Defence Intelligence: Monday Riku Morgan (Benue State, North-Central) 12. Director General, State Security Services, SSS: Lawal Daura, (Katsina State, North-West) 13. Acting Chairperson, Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC: Amina Zakari, (Jigawa State, North-West) 14. Managing Director, Nigerian Ports Authority, NPA: Habibu Abdulahi (Kano State, NorthWest) 15. Special Adviser, Niger Delta Amnesty Office: Paul Boroh, (Bayelsa State, South-South) 16. Acting Director General, Nigerian Maritime Administration, Safety and Security Agency, NIMASA: Baba Haruna Jauro (Yobe State, North-East) 17. Executive Vice Chairman/ Chief Executive

the promises he and his party made to the Nigerian electorates are yet to be fulfilled. For that, Buhari deserves and gets an F. But, for his commitment to effecting positive changes in the political and socio-economic landscape of Nigeria, President Buhari is worthy of a passing grade.

Officer, Nigerian Communications Commission: Umaru Dambatta (Kano State, North-West) 18. Executive Chairman, Federal Inland Revenue Service, FIRS: Babatunde Fowler, (Lagos State, South-West) 19. Director General, Budget Office of the Federation: Aliyu Gusau, (Zamfara State, North-West) 20. Engr. Babachir David Lawal – Secretary to the Government of the Federation (Adamawa state) 21. Alhaji Abba Kyari – Chief of Staff to the President (Borno state) 22. Col. Hameed Ibrahim Ali (rtd.) – Comptroller-General, Nigerian Customs Service (Nasarawa state) 23. Mr. Kure Martin Abeshi – Comptroller-General, Nigerian Immigration Service (Nasarawa state) 24. Senator Ita S.J. Enang – SSA to the President on National Assembly Matters (Senate) (Akwa Ibom) 25. Emmanuel Kachikwu- Group MD NNPC (Delta state)

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

37

ADVERTORIAL

@ 40, Titi Rocks!

S

ummer in this neck of the woods is a season of surprises. Adding another year, especially at times like the present, is worthy of celebrations. Few weeks ago in Springfield, Pennsylvania, Mrs. Titilayo Owotomo received a pleasant surprise at the Fa-

mous Dave’s Restaurant where she was treated to a lavish birthday bash organized behind her back by her hubby, Mr. Wole Owotomo. On hand to celebrate with Mrs. Owotomo as she turned 40 were friends and families from New Jersey, Delaware, Philadelphia suburbs

and beyond. Mr. Owotomo described his wife as a rare gem who is not just a wife but a mother and friend. “She deserves this, and even much more,” he said. The day after, the Owotomo family was in church to give thanks to God for His love and enduring mercy.

IF IT MATTERS, IT'S HERE! YOUR EVENTS CAN BE HERE TOO. CALL 215 571 9241 OR 610 570 9143.

38

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

1601 North Second Street, Suite C-2, Millville, NJ 08332 • Phone: 856-765-3138 Fax: 856-765-3147 • www.alafiaobgyn.com G. Lanre Babalola—PhD, DO, FACOG Board Certified by The American Board of OB-GYN

OBSTETRICS

GYNECOLOGY

Pregnancy (Low/High Risk) Delivery (At Elmer and Vinland, NJ) All Modes of Delivery: * Vaginal * C-Section * Trial of Labor after C-Section (TOLAC)

* Infertility *Hormonal Management *Sexual Dysfunction * Tubal Ligation/Occlusion/Reversal * Contraception * Surgery (In Office, Surgical Centers and Hospital) * In Office Procedures (Ultrasound, Colposcopy, Leep, Cryosurgery, Removal of External Lesions, IUD Insertion/Removal, Non-stress Testing In Pregnancy)

* Vaginal Birth after C-Section (VBAC)

WOMEN'S HEALTHCARE * Cancer Screening and Treatment * Urinary Incontinence * Osteoporosis/ Menopause * General Female Health Maintenance (Obesity, Blood Pressure, Diabetes, Pap, Infections)

We Accept Most Insurances and Self Pay

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

39

Photo: USAfrica Journal

IN THE NEWS

Lekki Mall... Top on the list of proposed sites for the first Walmart store in Nigeria

Brick by Brick… Walmart Rising?

By Charles Iredia | Nigeria

“Where in Lagos will the proposed Walmart Store be located?” That is the big question generating quite a buzz in the city.

B

arring any unforeseen glitch, the blue and yellow signage of Walmart, America’s largest low price retailer will make its debut in Africa’s most populous nation with the opening of its first outlet in Lagos, Nigeria soon. However, as with several key components of the Walmart Nigeria venture which are

still shrouded in misery, a definite site or commencement date for the proposed Walmart in Lagos is yet to be announced.

Top on the list of locations being touted as the final destination for the first Walmart Store in Nigeria is the multi-billion Naira Lekki Mall currently under construction at Sangote-

do, off Lekki/Epe Express way. However, a review of the mall’s masterplan made available to USAfrica Journal in Lagos showed that South Africa’s Shoprite, and Game, a subsidiary of Walmart are anchor tenants at Lekki Mall.

Sources said Walmart may have to move Game elsewhere if it’s really keen

on establishing its presence at Lekki Mall. The other possible option which our sources said is likely to materialize would be for Walmart to make Game part of a larger Walmart Store that will be located at the mall.

Lekki Mall is scheduled to open in April 2016.

Walmart Vox Pop

Good or Bad for the Country?

By Kayode Adewumi | USA Outside Nigeria, opinions differ on what the coming of Walmart to Lagos portends for the country, and Lagos, the host city. While some are hailing the move as the next best thing that can happen to the Nigeria’s troubled economy, some other people 40

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

familiar with the business model of Walmart in America are not quite excited about the news. So our bureau chiefs in Maryland (Kayode Adewumi) and New York (Bioye Oyewande) asked Nigerians in the Diaspora to weigh in on the controversy.

Dixon Korede, Baltimore, MD Bringing Walmart to Nigeria is a welcome development. It shows that the

international communities have now found Nigeria to be a conducive place for business. Unlike in the past when we were chasing foreign investors all around the globe, they are now coming willingly. That is a very great development. It will

IN THE NEWS Photo: Lekki Mall

surely benefit Nigeria and Nigerians in the area of job creation and tax payment.

I am sure other companies will also follow Walmart to Nigeria, sooner than later.

So I welcome it.

Akeem Raheem, Owings Mill, MD I welcome it. Walmart is known worldwide as a lowprice retailer. This will give Nigerians the opportunity to buy relatively good quality products at affordable prices. If Shoprite could make a difference in the nation’s market, I believe Walmart can do so too, especially with pricing and quality of its products.

Ladi Ogunseitan, Owings Mill, MD It is a very good development as it will end Shoprite’s monopoly of the market.

Also, Justrite and some other stores that are just milking us dry will have good competition. I live in Lagos and I see how these stores make huge profits by exploiting Nigerians. Their prices are just too exorbitant just because there are no competitors and we do not have market control prices. The coming of Walmart into the Nigerian market will break this trend.

Walmart’s presence in Nigeria will also positively affect several other sectors of the economy. For instance, it may be possible for Walmart to collaborate with local manufacturers and farmers

Lekki Mall Rendering

for distribution and sale of their products.

Kunle Adetunji, Phoenix, Arizona I am not enthusiastic about it at all. Walmart will not benefit Nigeria in any way. Walmart is known to be killers of small retail stores and businesses. As an economist, I am not moved by their potential to create jobs.

How many jobs are they going to create, compared with the resources that they are going to take away from us? Look at the huge profit which MTN, Shoprite and other similar foreign companies are returning to their home countries at our own detriment. These politicians should develop home based companies that will benefit Nigerians, and stop bringing their cronies to come and siphon our wealth through dubious investments. Go and look at the record of Walmart in America, it is not good at all; even Americans always protest the opening of Walmart in their communities because it kills businesses in those areas.

New York

By Bioye Oyewande | USA

Mr Lekan Ishola

Mr Kayode Serano

Yes it is good for Nigeria because the company will have to employ Nigerians to work at the stores. This will boost our economy, and create more jobs in Nigeria. I think it is good for the country as a whole and Lagos in particular.

Evangelist Soloman Adelaja I think it is a good development. My only concern is Lagos, in my opinion, is already too congested with many big companies.

Abeokuta in Ogun State would be a better location for such a big company.

Yes of course it is a welcome development. It will create employment and boost our economy.

Alhaji Alefa Suleiman Afolaran This is good for our economy.

However, Walmart should pay the workers what is fair and not the minimum wage like they sometimes do in other countries. The security at the location must also be very good to prevent theft.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

41

FASHION

Fabulous ForFall

Feeling

The sun is up, but the breeze is hovering in the wings as we inch closer to fall. No time like now to transition gracefully from one season to the other. With bold, vibrant African prints and versatile styles out there, you can go skimpy, airy or simply barely there. It’s all about your mood and preferences. Whichever look you choose, if you sizzled in summer, you’ll feel fabulous in fall – guaranteed!

WANT YOUR DESIGNS FEATURED EXCLUSIVELY IN THIS COLUMN? CALL 215-571-9241 OR EMAIL EDITOR@USAFRICAJOURNAL.COM 42

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

Photo: AFWL

FASHION

WANT YOUR DESIGNS FEATURED EXCLUSIVELY IN THIS COLUMN? CALL 215-571-9241 OR EMAIL EDITOR@USAFRICAJOURNAL.COM USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

43

BEAUTY

Eyes S e You!

By Natasha Jenkins | USA

W

hen it comes to your eyes; regardless of their shapes, sizes or color, there’s quite a lot you can do to beautify them. Not only can your eyes be the window to your soul, but also, they can be the gateway to your overall personality and estimation in the eyes of beholders, and it all boils down to how YOU want it!

Do you like yours glinting and titillating? Smoky or seductively dreamy?

Perhaps laced with long luscious lashes? Razzle dazzle with a sprinkle of sparkle? Clear and bright, or something offbeat? Either way, your eyes do speak volumes! Questions are what are they saying? Are your eyes getting your messages across?

Banish the guess work and get the right results with Flori Roberts’s line of beauty products to lively up your eyes like a pro. Keep your eyes on these strokes to get you started.

44

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

45

SPORTS

English Premier League

Ghana’s Andre Ayew Starts Strong

By Alex Baker | USA

U

seems to have formed an understanding with fellow Ligue 1 veteran, Gomis.

Although he failed to find the net in his third match for Swans, a 1-1 draw with Sunderland, it was certainly not for lack of trying. The 25-year-old forward nearly made it three goals in three games, rattling the Sunderland crossbar with a thunderous header and later playing a part in setting up teammate Bafetimbi Gomis for Swansea’s sole goal of the match.

Born in Seclin, France to Ghanaian parents, Ayew hails from a family Photo: www.sportsmole.co.uk

nlike many Ligue 1 players who take time to adapt to the pace and intensity of the Premier League, Ayew, who joined the Welsh outfit on a four-year deal, has found his feet quickly in the English top-flight.

He scored in his Swansea debut, a 2-2 draw with Chelsea on opening day, and again the following week in Swansea’s 2-0 victory over Newcastle United.

With his technical skills and ability to function as an attacking midfielder or a second striker, Ayew has been an instant hit for the Swans. Already he

Andre Ayew 46

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

Photo: imgkid.com

With two goals in his first three matches for Swansea City, Ghanaian Andre Ayew is making his mark on the English Premier League. A veteran of two World Cups and four Africa Cup of Nations, the former BBC African Player of the Year spent most of his career at Ligue 1 powerhouse Olympique de Marseille before signing with Swansea in the summer of 2015.

of footballers. His father, Abedi Pele, is a three-time African Player of the Year and considered by some to be the greatest African player of all time. His younger brother Jordan meanwhile plays for Aston Villa, while his older brother Ibrahim plays for Ghanaian Premier League giants, Asante Kotoko.

Ayew also began his career in African football, signing for Ghanaian side Nania as a 10-year-old and making his professional debut at age 14. His early

Photo: www.romaqube.it

SPORTS

performances for Nania were strong enough to earn him a move to his father’s former club, Marseille. After spending two years at Marseille’s youth academy, he made his first team debut in the 2007-08 season. This was followed by loan spells with Lorient and Arles-Avignon.

In 2010 Ayew returned to Marseille. Although he narrowly missed out on being part of the side that won the Ligue 1 title in the 2009-10 season, with 52 goals in 181 matches for L’OM, Ayew was an integral part of the team until his departure this summer. During his time at Marseille, he lifted four domestic Cups. Ayew was also a key player on the Ghanaian team that won the 2009 FIFA U-20 World Cup. At the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, Ayew was on target for the Black Stars against the United States and against eventual champions, Germany. Having established himself as one of the best players in France, Ayew had attracted interest from some of the top clubs across Europe, with both Roma and Atletico Madrid rumored to have been interested. But joining the Premier League seems a natural progression for a player like Ayew, although Swansea admittedly might not have been his first choice.

“I grew up watching English football and I support Liverpool,” said Ayew to the Daily Mail. “Steven Gerrard is my favorite player.”

Despite having been tipped by some as an ideal replacement for Anfield legend Gerrard, Ayew signed for Swansea.

While many expected him to join a bigger club, Swansea, a team that has risen rapidly since earning promotion to the Premier League just four years ago, seems a good fit for a similarly ambitious player like Ayew. If he maintains his current scoring trajectory, he may yet earn his dream move to Liverpool or to another of the EPL’s giants.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

47

IF THEIR FACES REALLY DO GET STUCK LIKE THAT, THEY’LL BE COVERED. Free or low-cost health insurance for all uninsured PA kids and teens.

No family makes too much.

Benefits include doctor visits, prescriptions, dental and eye care and much more. CHIP is brought to you by private health insurance companies you know and trust.

And your child may even be able to continue seeing the same doctor. Your child may be enrolled in Medical Assistance if your income is below CHIP guidelines.

Apply today!

CHIPcoversPAkids.com 1-800-986-KIDS

48

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

BRAINY BOYS continued from page 7

A LEGACY continued from page 8

MONEY continued from page 14

in their studies. This means that you must remember that doing your very best on every single homework question and reading the textbook itself and not just skimming notes are what distinguish those who just get by and those who produce exemplary work in school. You must put in that all night study sessions on Saturday even if it means that you miss that college basketball semifinal on ESPN. If it means you will have a better grasp of a certain topic in school, then by all means, do it! Also most importantly you must take pride in doing well in school. This means that one must have inner yearning to constantly want to improve and look for ways to do better. Think of the amount of work the NBA MVP Stephon Curry puts in to improve every aspect of his jump shot and take this exact mentality to how you approach school when you need motivation.

According to the New Strong’s Expensive Concordance of the Bible, the word, “righteous” in Greek parlance denotes any act synonymous with the nature of God and His acts. He is the standard for all men. For as many as follow His standards, they are of His family. Paul in his letter to the Church in Rome had this to say about being part of God’s big happy family: 14 For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. 15 For ye received not the spirit of bondage again unto fear; but ye received the spirit of adoption, whereby we cry, Abba, Father.

16 The Spirit himself beareth witness with our spirit, that we are children of God: 17 and if children, then heirs; heirs of God, and joint-heirs with Christ; if so be that we suffer with him, that we may be also glorified with him (Romans 8: 14-17).

As long as we are led by the Spirit of God, whatever acts of service we perform qualify us for the commensurate rewards that come with it. There is more to the reward than just mere compensation. It is a series of continued acts of worship through ministry guided by the Holy Spirit.

What those people forgot was how to “make life” while they got busy making money! Money in itself is not evil; it provides food for the hungry, medicine for the sick, clothes for the needy.

However, money is only a medium of exchange. We need two kinds of education: One that teaches us how to make a living and another that teaches us how to live. There are many of us who are so engrossed in our professional life that we neglect our family, health and social responsibilities. If asked why we do this, we would reply that “we are doing it for our family.” Yet, our kids are sleeping when we leave home. And they are sleeping when we come back home! Twenty years later, we’ll turn back, and they’ll all be gone, to pursue their own dreams and their own lives. Without water, a ship cannot move. But if the water gets into the ship, the ship will face disaster. What was once productive for the ship now becomes destructive. Similarly, we live in a time where earning is a necessity but we should not let it enter our hearts, so that what was once a means of living may not become a means of destruction for us as well. So take a moment and ask yourself: “Has the water entered my ship?”

What role did your faith play in achieving your goal?

My faith as a Roman Catholic played a significant role in every facet of all the blessings I have received over the past year. My faith calls upon me to try and make the world a better place by giving back to others and speaking out when I witness an injustice on behalf of those who may be oppressed and cannot speak for themselves, so my faith helps me to set my goals accordingly. My faith provides me with a sense of stability and solace that pushes me to do my best but allows me to be satisfied with my best efforts.

Now that you’ve achieved the seemingly impossible, what’s your next goal?

I want to try and help underserved communities gain better access to healthcare and I also want to help people who may feel disenchanted become empowered and more engaged in the political process. Within the next four years I hope to move on to medical school to further my education.

Pastor Tim is the founder of Christ Temple World Outreach Ministry, Darby Pennsylvania. Excerpt from REWARD – A Biblical Perspective by Pastor Timothy Babatunde is published with the permission of the author.

Dr.Ojo is the CEO of Gravitas Communications, and Senior Pastor of RCCG, (City of Praise), Hartford, Wisconsin.

THE TRAGEDY continued from page 25

ing savanna. He focuses our attention on the individuals he meets and their circumstances. Reflecting their perspectives on local events, he lets them convey their views directly in dialogue with him.

It is somewhat disappointing that an important book like French’s, published in 2004, stops in 1998 when he left his position in the region. One can appreciate his frustration and sense his exhaustion from four years of criss-

crossing the difficult terrain. Nevertheless, the reader would have greatly benefited from and expected some kind of epilogue on the various events still unfolding when he described them. Also, for those not that familiar with the contemporary history of Central Africa, a summary of historical chronology would have assisted in placing the events described more comprehensively.

USAfrica Journal | usafricajournal.com

49

DON’T TRAVEL continued from page 28

the enrolment. Once issued, Nigerian Banks’ Customers in diaspora are expected to forward their BVN to their banks for linkage with their accounts, the statement read.

MAMA NIKE continued from page 35

The following are the addresses of current enrolment centers in United States and U.K., and their possible golive dates. Currently, the fee in United States is $45.

S/ No.

City/Country

Address

Possible Go-Live Date

1.

Washington DC, USA

Washington DMV (11900 Park Lawn Drive, Suite 160, Rockville, MD Rockville, MD)

Enrolling already

2.

Atlanta, USA

918 Holcomb Bridge Roswell, Atlanta

Sept. 14, 2015

3.

London, UK

56-57 Fleet Street, City of London EC4Y 1JU

Enrolling already

4.

Leicester, UK

The Peplum Center, Orchardson Avenue, Leicester LE4 6DP

Enrolling already

5.

New York, USA

To be determined (TBD)

TBD

6.

Houston, USA

To be determined (TBD)

TBD

CAMEROON continued from page 30

Cooperation activities in other African countries, funded by Cameroon. The new FAO office will be responsible for the Program’s overall coordination.

“As partners, the government and FAO will continue to keep each other informed about their respective policies and programs on food security, nutrition, agricultural and rural development,” Minister Mbonjo said.

“This historic financial commitment highlights Cameroon’s strong commitment to food security and rural development,” FAO’s Director-General, Graziano da Silva said. “This generous contribution is an important recognition of Africa’s potential in the fight against extreme hunger and poverty.”

Minister Menye noted that Cameroon is committed to strengthening agriculture in the country and beyond.

50

VOL. 2, ISSUE 5 | 2015

“We are delighted to increase the already long existing cooperation with FAO. It will strengthen our ongoing work and open new opportunities to work together in pursuit of our common goals,” Minister Menye said.

Cameroon has been a member of FAO since 1960 and the Organization has maintained an Office in Yaoundé since 1978. From Millennium Development Goals (MDG) to Sustainable Development Goals, Cameroon has already achieved both the MDG target of halving the proportion of the population suffering from undernourishment by 2015, and the more stringent World Food Summit target of 1996 of halving the absolute numbers of the hungry by 2015.

Source: FAO

our works no longer visit as often as they used to do because they are concerned about their personal safety as well as that of their property. The other challenge this group of people faces is the hurdles they have to go over before they can get visa to come to Nigeria.

For many of our patrons from outside the country, getting a tourism visa to come to Nigeria is like trying to push a camel through the eye of a needle.

So what do you say to the young artists?

Produce excellent works. Package yourselves in a nice way and be honest.

It is also important to be patient. Don’t start off rushing after money. Do it for the love of the arts. If your love for the arts is genuine, if you are honest, passionate and dedicated to your crafts, money will come. You have to also plan and know how to manage your money.

You’ve been honored with several awards at home and internationally for your works. You are a positive reference point, and a force to be reckoned with in the arts world. Professionally, is there anything else that you are still striving for?

I would love to see more youths take on this traditional art and take it to a greater level, and not let it die. I really want to concentrate on that. We can start with the children as early as age six. Teach them the basics of the traditional arts and culture in their areas of origin. The ones that are art-inclined will pick it up and build upon the knowledge as they grow older. Our government should look into the possibility of including this in the school curriculum. On our part, we will be happy to tell interested authors and educationists how all these wonderful pieces of arts are done from A to Z so we can preserve this heritage for the coming generations. Education is very important especially for the children because they are our future.

The First and the Finest for Women of Color Amazing Shades Astonishing Coverage Richly pigmented for luminous results for richer skintones.

Order direct from Flori Roberts at

www.FLORIROBERTS.com or call for Free Catalog 1-877-57-FLORI