Allure 01112015

November 1, 2015

GLOWREEYAH BRAIMAH

SINACH NATHANIEL BASSEY

Singing Evangels

01/11 Contents FAS H I O N

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e m a i l : a l l u r e fo r t h e wo rl d @ v a n g u a r d n g r. c o m

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FASHION 6 11

STYLE IQ Ways To Update Your LBD

FEATURE 14

• Luxury Wines & Spirits

SINGING EVANGELS

Quotes...

PEOPLE 15

COVER STORY

• Bez, Holds Album Listening Party • The Event Show 2015

“Time is too slow for those who wait, too swift for those who fear, too long for those who grieve, too short for those who rejoice, but for those who love, time is eternity”.

- Henry Van Dyke

Editor’s Note Hip-hop music has taken ever our social life. At every turn, there is one celebration or twerking event where we abandon ourselves to the pleasures of the moment. Particularly for the youth, music and celebration is an essential part of growing up.

There are more people singing, acting, dancing and in fashion than there are in science and technology. Africans love their fun! However, there are lots of Africans doing great work in the great world of science, technology, finance and the arts. So, when a Donald Trump comes along with disparaging and derogatory statements about Africans, you wonder where he got the nerve.

Indeed, there is something in the African’s DNA that makes us a physical race rather than a systematic thinking lot – we love sports, music and entertainment. That’s the way we are. So, Donald Trump can take a hike! Someone with an opinion like that will never be president!

Not in a hundred years will the likes of him occupy the highly exalted White House!

For our cover personalities, doing gospel means working extra hard to reach the crescendo needed to get noticed. Gloria Braimah, Nathaniel Bassey and Osinachi Kalu are gospel artistes who have found fame and fortune singing for Christ. Singing one song at a time, each of them tells the story of the challenge and success of being a ‘singing evangel’. See pp. 7-10.

The Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) context held recently in Calabar, Cross River State. Yemisi Suleiman, who covered the show for Allure, reports that the keen contest was a celebration of Africa’s great talents. See reports on pp. 4-5.

This journey has been worth the while. Enjoy your Sunday. Have a great week!

CHIBOK GIRLS: 500 days and counting.

R.

Remmy Diagbare @ Vanguardallure1

“The ultimate test of a relationship is to disagree but to hold hands”.

- Alexandra Penney

“Remember, we all stumble, every one of us. That’s why it’s a comfort to go hand in hand”.

- Emily Kimbrough COVER PHOTO: BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA

TEAM

JEMI EKUNKUNBOR

PAMELA ECHEMUNOR

YEMISI SULEIMAN

FATIMA GARBA

EDITOR REMMY DIAGBARE DEPUTY EDITOR JEMI EKUNKUNBOR ASST. EDITOR YEMISI SULEIMAN STYLE REPORTER PAMELA ECHEMUNOR CONTRIBUTORS PRINCESS KATE EMIKO BAMIYO ISELEMA EMINA JEROME CODJO-YAOVI ONIPEDE

CONT. EDITOR LATASHA NGWUBE COPY EDITOR DODOIYI WILLIAM-WEST CORRESPONDENTS FATIMA GARBA DAVINA AYODELE LAYOUT / DESIGN GREGORY OBI OLAYIWOLA AJAGBE PHOTO OSCAR OCHIOGU (08034746487)

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SPE CIAL REPORT

SPE CIAL REPORT

Unoaku Anyadike Is Most Beautiful Girl In Nigeria

2015

FORMER GOV. OF cross RIVERS STATE LIYEL IMOKE AND WIFE OBIOMA, CHINENYE akinlade, sen. ITA GIWA , UNOAKU anyadike, cross rivers state GOV. prof. BEN AYADE, KENDRA AND sen. BEN murrey bruce

contestants in traditional wear

by - Yemisi Suleiman

T

wenty-one year old Unoaku Anyadike, moved from obscurity to fame penultimate Saturday, when she beat 36 other contestants at a keenly contested event, to emerge Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) 2015.

The 28th edition of Nigeria’s most prestigious beauty contest, this year, held in Calabar the Cross River States capital. The exclusive Calabar International Conference Centre came alive for the first time, with gaily dressed personalities and top government functionaries who came to witness the show.

The night began with the introduction of 37 aspiring Queens, dressed in the traditional wear of their respective states including the federal capital territory Abuja. The event saw the girls make three appearances on stage; traditional, the swimwear, done with a production sequence dance to Kiss Daniels”Laye” and the evening wear segment. As a way of projecting tourism in the state, there was a fun time tape of the contestants’ visit to different tourist locations while in camp.

Sponsored by the Cross Rivers State government, the theme for this year’s pageant is ‘Climate Change’, a theme that is in line with the governor’s Ben Ayade’s vision of climate change education. Delivering his speech, Prof. Ben Ayade said, he decided to host the event to sensitise the people on the issue of climate change and the need to protect and celebrate mother earth. “Tonight we want an ambassador that will fit the concept of climate change” he said.

With the appearances over, the girls were narrowed to fifteen and then top five. High point of the evening was the interview segment, which saw some of the contestants, flunked questions except for Miss

Ebonyi and Anambra who impressed the audience with their responses.

At the end of the competition, Miss Anambra: Unoaku Anyadike who was the obvious choice of the audience as well, was crowned the 28th Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria. Anyadike will move on to represent Nigeria at the Miss World pageant taking place in Sanya, China in December. While the first runner up, Debbie Collins representing Ebonyi will attend the Miss Universe pageant also in December.

This year’s edition featured performances from rave of the moment Kiss Daniels and MC Galaxy and was broadcast live on the Silverbird Dream Network. top 5 contestants on stage

oluwadamilola hassan, mbgn top model 2015 receiving her award from juliette hagerman

contestants in traditional wear

Unoaku Anyadike mc galaxy thrilling the audience vixen and chris compere of the night

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contestants on stage

November 1, 2015 /

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SPE CIAL REPORT

SPE CIAL REPORT

Unoaku Anyadike Is Most Beautiful Girl In Nigeria

2015

FORMER GOV. OF cross RIVERS STATE LIYEL IMOKE AND WIFE OBIOMA, CHINENYE akinlade, sen. ITA GIWA , UNOAKU anyadike, cross rivers state GOV. prof. BEN AYADE, KENDRA AND sen. BEN murrey bruce

contestants in traditional wear

by - Yemisi Suleiman

T

wenty-one year old Unoaku Anyadike, moved from obscurity to fame penultimate Saturday, when she beat 36 other contestants at a keenly contested event, to emerge Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) 2015.

The 28th edition of Nigeria’s most prestigious beauty contest, this year, held in Calabar the Cross River States capital. The exclusive Calabar International Conference Centre came alive for the first time, with gaily dressed personalities and top government functionaries who came to witness the show.

The night began with the introduction of 37 aspiring Queens, dressed in the traditional wear of their respective states including the federal capital territory Abuja. The event saw the girls make three appearances on stage; traditional, the swimwear, done with a production sequence dance to Kiss Daniels”Laye” and the evening wear segment. As a way of projecting tourism in the state, there was a fun time tape of the contestants’ visit to different tourist locations while in camp.

Sponsored by the Cross Rivers State government, the theme for this year’s pageant is ‘Climate Change’, a theme that is in line with the governor’s Ben Ayade’s vision of climate change education. Delivering his speech, Prof. Ben Ayade said, he decided to host the event to sensitise the people on the issue of climate change and the need to protect and celebrate mother earth. “Tonight we want an ambassador that will fit the concept of climate change” he said.

With the appearances over, the girls were narrowed to fifteen and then top five. High point of the evening was the interview segment, which saw some of the contestants, flunked questions except for Miss

Ebonyi and Anambra who impressed the audience with their responses.

At the end of the competition, Miss Anambra: Unoaku Anyadike who was the obvious choice of the audience as well, was crowned the 28th Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria. Anyadike will move on to represent Nigeria at the Miss World pageant taking place in Sanya, China in December. While the first runner up, Debbie Collins representing Ebonyi will attend the Miss Universe pageant also in December.

This year’s edition featured performances from rave of the moment Kiss Daniels and MC Galaxy and was broadcast live on the Silverbird Dream Network. top 5 contestants on stage

oluwadamilola hassan, mbgn top model 2015 receiving her award from juliette hagerman

contestants in traditional wear

Unoaku Anyadike mc galaxy thrilling the audience vixen and chris compere of the night

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contestants on stage

November 1, 2015 /

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IQ

IQ By - Yemisi Suleiman

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heliola Ibironke is the Managing Director of Micromedia Marketing Limited, Nigeria’s leading production, content acquisition and Distribution Company, producers of the telenovella drama series; Taste of Love and more recently, Casino. Set to go on air soon, CASINO is an action drama series revolving around the control of a Political Dynasty, economic wealth of a state and family business, which fosters infidelity, assault, seduction and betrayal.

The series, features some of the best in the Nigerian movie industry, including Zack Orji, Ayo Adesanya, Funsho Adeolu amongst others. A graduate of the University of Lagos, Ibironke who delved into film production out of love for the arts, speaks to Allure on the journey to production, challenges, dreams for her company as well as her fashion and style sense.

At what point did you decide to produce your own movies?

I will be very honest with you, producing our own movie was a management decision. Our company has board of directors and I am one of them. We normally would acquire content on international market, because that is the specialization of the firm, but at a point in time, we decided that we had to start producing our own content. The first thing we did was to adapt an existing Telenovela which is ‘Taste of love’. It was not originally written by Micro Media, it is an adaptation. What we did was take an existing content which has won lots of award in eastern Europe and we adapted it locally, that was how ‘Taste of love’ came on board. But for ‘Casino’, it has my personal touch in it. It is 100% original Nigeria script, well thought through, a lot of sleepless night. a lot of reading, a lot of going round the street of Lagos to see how people live, the rich and the not so rich.

So far, we have been able to produce two and we have another two in the pipeline now, which we will be releasing soon in 2016. It is not a movie, it is a series that runs every day, Monday to Thursday, What informed the production of Casino?

While Taste of Love was on, Casino was also in the pipe line. There is a huge demand for premium Nigerian content because our sotry speaks to every facet of life,

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SHELIOLA IBIRONKE

and you will see yourself in each of the story. What we have done with Casino is that we have produced a series but, because of the beauty of the story, we decided to have a movie also which will be in the cinemas this October and afterwards, we will start running the series.

We have always limited our distribution through television channels, right now, we are taking it beyond television.

What are the challenges faced producing a movie like Casino?

We have had very huge challenges; one of them is funding. Also, ensuring that the quality stays through, because we have to work with a lot of people from the costume department to the arts and the production through to the end. The big challenge is trying to sell your vision across all. At the end of the day, the producer might not be on set, but it is how you sell the vision to the cast and crew that matters, so that the set designers, the props designers, all have the vision in mind when designing the set for example. So what we do usually, is to have sessions where the production crew come together, talk, show them movies from outside, by the time we break the jinx, there is a paradigm shift in their minds. Another thing is the logistic plan; a lot of things that we have planned may not go as you wish.

For instance, you planned to make a shoot today, and your cast member is unavoidably absent. We have to be grateful to Africa Magic that goes out of their way to invest in producers to produce the right content. Tthey have made a clear understanding of the fact that you can only get premium content when we invest in it.

What informs your style, the kind of clothes that you wear?

I have been fashionable ever since I was in my mother’s womb. I grew up with fashion, I grew up being very fashion conscious, even with the products that I use.

What fashion item would you splurge on?

I would splurge on everything, from diamond, to

bags, shoes, and I get a lot of gifts from my husband because he knows that those are one the things that make me happy after a stressful period.

Do you have a thing for designers?

When it comes to shoes, bags, I am a freak for Channel, and I am also a freak for Cavali, What about perfumes, do you have a signature scent?

Yes, my signature perfume would be Channel no 18, the limited edition. Recently, I am loving Dolce & Gabbana. I love a lot of limited edition perfumes.

Where is your best holiday spot?

That would be the Seychelles Island.

What is your best beauty therapy?

I use very natural products. For my makeup, I use a lot of Black Up because they are very natural, you can easily wash them off and of course, when I am on set, I ensure that I am not exposed to UV rays. I drink a lot of water too.

How do you keep fit?

I do a lot of exercises; I take long walks around my estate. I jog, but not when I am stressed. I try as much as possible not to eat heavily after 8pm so that my food can digest.

What is your vision for Micro Media when it comes to production?

The vision for us is to see that our production goes beyond Africa; it goes all over the world. For us to have a global appeal that is basically our vision for every of the product that we bring out.. We have partners that help us distribute it on mobile platforms and we believe that the products that we have out there will generate lots of attention, respect and glamour. The ultimate aim would be to receive international awards.

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REPORTAGE

- SINGING EVANGELS By - Pamela Echemunor

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hree top outstanding Nigerian gospel artistes – Glowreeyah Braimah, Osinachi Egbu(Sinach) and Nathaniel Bassey ;gave up worldly passions and possessions to spread the good news through music. The trio took the Nigerian Music Industry by storm with serveral hit songs that have become anthems in homes and churches.

One thing they have in common is their love for music from an early age and their willingness to give up regular careers to pursue music which has become a call. Despite challenges, all three say they will choose music again and again. In this encounter, they share their inspiring stories of how it began.

November 1, 2015 /

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REPORTAGE

Glowreeyah Braimah: Singing For The Soul

he young, and vivacious lawyer turned gospel singer, Glowreeyah, who despite facing certain challenges of life is a beacon of hope and faith. With a Christian background and multi-tribal family, her immeasurable appetite to absorb all genres of music – from afro to classical – led her to choose her own path, following a call from God. With her songs, she spreads the good news to the down-trodden and inspires the incompliant to turn to God in the difficulties of everyday life.

She contributes immensely to her church, House on the Rock, and society, devoting time to child related causes.

With a bubbly personality and a heart full of praise, there’s no stopping this spirited singer.

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What made you decide to do music as opposed to Law? … Well, I trained as a lawyer but music has always been a part of my life. I come from a very musical family. My father played and still plays the organ in the Catholic Church so, there was always a piano in my house – growing up as a child. My family would sing everyday at prayers or we would sing to entertain our guests. Sometimes, my siblings and I, would organise little concerts at home. So, music has always been a part of my life.

How long have you been in the music business?

I have been singing for the last 20 years. I mean for background groups; my church choir as a song leader during worship (sessions). But in the industry, I officially released my first single about five years ago.

Who were your earlier music influences?

My influences are as varied as ever. First of all, my family collected a lot of music – jazz, hip-hop, afro, funk, soul, R&B and even classical music. My parents listened to a lot of classical music. So, my influences were formed, first of all, from the background where I came from.

Then, of course, with inspiration from the likes of BeBe and CeCe Winans. They broke the glass ceiling with regards to what gospel music is. For me, at that time, it was novel; it was new to hear their kind of gospel and gospel music. I think, to a great extent, BeBe and CeCe Winans and the likes of Pastor Donny McClurkin and a few others are my influences.

With the different kinds of music you were introduced to growing up, why did you chose the gospel genre?

I love God. I love people and I think the balance of doing gospel is that it is a relevant kind of music. It is

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•Braimah music for the spirit, the soul, the mind and the body. It is music that heals; that restores. It forges life and gives hope. What other sound would I have loved to proclaim other than this one?

Would you say that the path of Christianity you have chosen right now is attributed to certain life experiences you have had or have you always been born again?

Being a born again Christian, I believe, is everyone’s path to decide; you go on your path and you make the choice. I made the choice to follow Jesus. I made the choice at great price. People who know me know I have paid a great price for my faith; they know I have paid a great price to clean up and become this person (I am) now. I have been through a lot of trials and challenges so, I proudly say that I have been saved by grace for such a time as this.

Your song, ‘Miracle Worker’, has become an anthem and a great source of inspiration to many.

What was the inspiration behind it?

‘Miracle Worker’ is God’s gift to us in this season.

That He chose to inspire me with that song humbles me. It was inspired by my three-year old niece who was two at the time. She went to the hospital for a routine surgery. All of a sudden, there were complications after the surgery and she was in coma for a few weeks; about two and a half weeks.

I tried praying and couldn’t. I laid down flat on the floor crying out to God; asking for something, for her healing, and I heard the song whispered in my ear, ‘Miracle Worker’. I grabbed my phone and recorded it for eight minutes and two seconds.

I heard the whole song and it comforted me. I sang the song everyday for two and a half weeks, until my niece left the hospital, I had made a promise to God. I said, “You have given me a song of comfort.”

“If you heal my niece, I will tell everyone in the world just how great you are and what a healer you are; how awesome you are.” And, here we are!

Today, that song is blessing millions of people in Nigeria and around the world. I get countless testimonies everyday from people near and far, about how it has encouraged and helped them. I get many testimonies as regards their own lives, about healing and how it’s a song of prayer. Nurses are playing it for

REPORTAGE patients in hospital wards, children are singing it.

This brings tears to my eyes every time I see an email or hear a feedback from someone about being blessed because of that song.

What inspires you lyrically?

My friends say I’m essentially very creative. I get sparks of creativity. I could just look at something and see something else behind it. I thank God for that but, mostly, the songs I have done or have written and released are based on personal experiences; either joy or pain, or overcoming a challenge or a family issue. They are all from things I’ve been through and experienced.

What do you have in the works now?

I have released four singles, ‘Turn Around’, ‘God Alone’, ‘To My Niece’ and ‘Miracle Worker’. I have an album release this October. So, watch out for my album by God’s grace.

Do you intend to practice Law again at any point in your life?

I think I use Law in every facet of my life. For instance, just last week, I spoke to a group of young people about the business of music (and) the legal perspective of that. Every day of my life, I meet people or I get to counsel my friends or family members. It’s based on the foundation of what I studied so, I doubt that Law is running away from me.

What other interests besides Law and music do you have?

I believe in causes that uplift the down trodden, that bring justice to those that are in need of it. I have a foundation for young children and initiatives that would roll out in the nearest future. I also volunteer for child related causes.

I used to work as an education programme manager for a foundation for several years. It enabled me to understand structure in social responsibility and in development areas. With that background and having it as a passion, that would be my focus in the nearest future.

Nathaniel Bassey: Making The Trumpet Call

kwa Ibom-born gospel singer, Nathaniel Bassey, heard the call at a young age. While his mates were rolling in the sand, the young singer was mapping out a grand plan to serve and praise. Born to a minister father, Bassey developed innate passion for the Word of God and music alike.

As a young man, he loved soccer, among other things, but put God’s work above all others. He also served as band leader and lead trumpet player for the Steve Rhodes Orchestra, the first jazz orchestra in Nigeria, for two years – after Elder Steve Rhodes discovered the singer’s astounding talent.

The proud father, husband and revered trumpet player has broadened his base locally and internationally, collaborating with artistes far and wide while still playing a prominent role at his church, the Redeemed Christian Church of God. With several hit songs and albums on the way, Nathaniel Bassey has a loud message to proclaim.

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What inspired you to go into music?

Music, for me, is more than a career. I think it is a calling; it is something God has chosen me to do. I would say that it is a call to ministry. I would say that when you’re called by God to do something, you really don’t have a choice, so to speak.

Yeah, you can decide not to do it but it is something one needs to take seriously. So, for me, it’s my purpose; it is what I was created to do. I do it as a calling.

Why did you choose to do gospel?

Gospel is the medium to express that which I was called to do. I always say that my music is a tool, first to minister and worship God and also an avenue through which God reaches his people. By that I mean, the way through which He impacts the world, blessing and uplifting people.

If you weren’t doing music what would you be doing?

If I were not doing music, I would be doing music

•Bassey (Laughs), I’m kidding. I studied Urban and Regional Planning at the University of Lagos and I have a degree from the University of London in International Relations and Politics.

I also like soccer a lot. I am a Barcelona fan; unfortunately, they lost woefully recently. I like humour.

So, I think I’m a man of many parts but like I said, if I’m not doing music, I’ll be doing music.

Who were your earlier music influences?

I was influenced by Panam Percy Paul, Don Moen, Terry Maccalmon and jazz musicians like Stan Gez, Carlos Jobim and so on. I am someone who is open to a lot of influences, genres and idioms of music.

Which gospel act are you craving to work with?

Okay. I collaborated with my friend, the one I call my covenant brother, Micah Stampley. We did a song titled “This God is too Good”. We released that on 27th August.

I look forward to working with other Nigerian gospel artistes. I have worked with Gloriah, Frank Edwards and a number of Nigerian artistes. I look forward to working with Sinach as well as more international collaborations.

Tell us about your most recent album and what inspired it?

Yes, like I mentioned, I just did a single with Micah Stampley. I will also be doing some work with Chioma Jesus. I am in the process of putting the songs for my November 1, 2015 /

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REPORTAGE next album together; hopefully, by December, we would have an album release party.

I am also mentoring lots of young music ministers. I am a youth pastor with the Redeemed Christian Church of God. I’m also a father and husband. So, I have my hands full.

How do you combine all that – work, church and family life?

We just find time somehow. Sometimes, I travel with them and we try to mish-mash everything together.

Sometimes, we do family; other times, ministry and so on. Somehow, we manage to make out the time.

How long have you been doing music?

I would say prior to 1991, I was a drummer boy in

school. I began playing the trumpet in 1991. I would say it all began then; so, about 25 years. I guess about that.

What was growing up like for you?

Growing up was fun; played lots of soccer and games (laughs). When music came into my life, it interrupted my childhood. I started hanging around with a more mature crowd because of the gift of music so, while my mates were watching cartoons and playing in the sand, I was in orchestras and bands rehearsing.

You spoke about a song you did earlier “Cathedral”. Can you tell us about it?

My songs, in general, are greatly inspired by the Holy Spirit. Sometimes, as I read the Word of God, the revelation and reality of God hits me and then it flows

out like a song. At other times, it could be while praying or while worshipping in church; a song just swells up inside me.

There are varieties of ways. I am not the type that really writes songs based on experience, like when one is going through pain and so on. My songs are revelational; based on the inspiration I get through the things I mentioned earlier.

Do you write all your songs or do you have people write for you?

Most of my songs are done personally. I write them myself but I have a few songs that have been written by other people and some that were co-written. But 90 percent of my songs are self written.

Sinach:

Touching Lives

ward-winning music artiste, Sinach, has over 200 songs to her name and a bag of hits. With her albums, from “Glory to Glory” to “I Know Who I am”, this newly married songstress has exhibited immense love for the Almighty and isn’t ashamed to proclaim His love to the world.

With performances from the United States of America to Europe, Sinach is touching lives every day with her music. Ministering in her church, Christ Embassy, gives her much joy. As she spreads God’s love and her immense understanding of the Word of God, she is ever hopeful that more and more people will understand God’s message and love them.

Growing up in a large family helped Sinach to understand human behaviour and how to reach out to them through various means. Sinach is an inspiration to many young people at home and abroad.

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What inspires you to sing?

The love of God; His love is beyond imagination. I mean, someone who loves you just the way you are. You could love your parents because of what they have done for you yet, human love and human loyalty can be questioned and can be affected but the love of God is beyond understanding. The Bible says that He first loved us; even before we knew of his love, He gave His son.

Christ died for us so, when I think about His love, it lifts me.

I didn’t really understand Christianity until I understood God’s love. That God could love you no matter who you are and irrespective of what you have done or what you are going to do in the future; He loves you. All you need to do is accept His love for you. So, that drives me to tell people about His love and to sing about the one who loves me beyond measure.

Was that the reason you decided to go into gospel music?

Oh yes! I wanted to tell people about His wonderful love; about His glorious love – the Saviour who can love you out of depression or any condition or situation you are in. He has given us everything so people need to know about His love.

How long have you been doing music?

I’ve been doing music for many years now. As a child, I loved music. I would say I have been doing music for a long time but professionally, let’s say over 25 years.

You grew up in the midst of seven children. How was that like?

Oh yes, with two sets of twins! It was so much fun. I had so many people to play with and to quarrel and make up with. I learnt so much from home; like how to manage people and how to relate with people. It really had great impact on me, personally.

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What inspires you to write the lyrics of your songs?

So many things. I can’t put them all in one box. I would say that the Word of God first, the Holy Spirit, experience and people I meet every day.

If you weren’t doing music, what other line of work would you be into?

I would be a writer. I love writing. I used to write fiction but now I don’t have so much time. But I still love writing.

You have performed on the international scene; from South Africa to the United States and so on. Can you tell us about your experiences?

The fact is people are the same everywhere; people have the same needs and wants. It might come in different forms but the gospel is the same everywhere.

One just has to communicate the love of God and the presence of Jesus through songs. For me, ministering to those people makes me ever glad because I have a ministry that is worldwide and through my ministry, which is Christ Embassy, I have the opportunity to minister in different nations of the world.

Whether I am in South Africa, Canada, London or in Europe, it’s all the same thing. I always thank God for that opportunity.

•Sinach

Which artistes would you like to collaborate with in the nearest future?

I see very wonderful people around us, especially

Nigerians. In Nigeria, we have had amazing, gifted and anointed ministers, so I would like to work with them. I actually learn from them a lot.

I also have young people that I mentor so, I work with young people; to kind of shine the light on them by giving them a platform to grow.

FA S H I ON

Ways To Update your by - Jemi Ekunkunbor

LBD

Every girl needs at least one Little Black Dress in her wardrobe. It’s a quick fix for a cocktail party but you can also make it work for day.

Look for lace, lower neckline and sheer and soft fabric when making your choice.

When it comes to updating your LBD, a few fashion items can be cleverly employed. Here is a list of items you can use to update your iconic LBD

White blazer

Jacket A nice jacket or blazer is so cool and can help you go from day to night. Go to work in a plaid jacket and afterwards take off for a drink with friends after work.

Bling it up

charlott-red-cropped-bolero

Add sparkle to your look with a pair of drop earrings.

Wear a bolero It helps change the look dramatically.

belt up

Little black dress

Embellished gold belt

Enhance your waistline with a nice embellished belt

Statement Necklace Pair with red shoe

Add a bit of drama with a statement necklace.

Add a pop of colour with a patent red pump.

Mint-Bead-StatementNecklace

Anna Banner ankle strap sandal

November 1, 2015 /

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H EALT H

HEALTHY LIVING101 by - Teri Mendes

HOW TO LOSE TORSO (UPPER BODY) FAT FAST - part 2 ...CONTINUED FROM LAST WEEK

CONSIDERATIONS Consider monitoring the foods that you eat when trying to lose belly fat. You can exercise, but if your diet is high in calories, you may not see any results.

Choose to consume foods that fuel your body and keep you feeling full, which prevents overeating. First thing in the morning drink 1 cup of warm water with lemon drink lots of water throughout the day and with all meals. Eat Lean meats, whole grains, low-fat dairy products, fruits and vegetables. Processed foods, fast food and soda should be cut out completely. Eat the good fat such as the oily fishes, flax seed oil, and tofu, Beans, and Legumes, snack on almonds and fruits from the berry family (eat these fruits before 4pm), don’t eat dinner after 7pm preferably green and white coloured vegetables. But eat vegetables with every meal you eat every day.

UDDIYANA BANDHA Uddiyana bandha, also known as an upward abdominal lock, is a yoga pose. To perform this exercise, stand with your feet about hip-width apart and place your hands on your thighs. After leaning forward slightly, exhale all the air out of your lungs and let your belly hang down. Without taking in any air, draw your belly button in and upward as much as possible. Hold this position as long as you can, release and take a few breaths, and repeat.

Mens sana in corpore sano.

(Your prayer must be for a sound mind in a sound body).

- JUVENAL

YOGA Yoga can also help define your midsection. Yoga uses your own body weight for resistance, allowing you to build strength in your core. The “Yoga Journal” explains that poses like plank and side plank can help develop the obliques, transverse abdominals and the rectus abdominus. Hold each yoga pose for 30 seconds and build your way up to a minute with proper form. Complete a plank by beginning at the top of a pushup. Your hands are directly under your shoulders and your back is flat. Draw your navel in and hold your pose. Begin your side plank by starting in plank pose. Slowly transfer your weight into your right hand and right foot and stack your hips. Hold this pose, keeping your abdominals engaged and hips lifted off the ground.

PILATES Pilates was created to elongate and strengthen the muscles of your body. You can create lean muscle in your midsection and lose your belly with Pilates training at home. Pilates moves like the scissor kick and rollups are all designed to tighten your midsection. Scissor kicks are performed lying on your back with your neck relaxed on the floor. Lift your legs up, allowing your toes to point to the ceiling.

TERI Speaks Hi Teri, Hope you had a good day. I like reading your columns in Sunday Vanguard newspapers.

Please I want to know if Margarine is different from Butter. Secondly, could you please tell me where I can buy a bag of brown rice? I also want to know where I can get Ofada rice (bag) that is sand and chaff-free. God bless you real good.

Chimmy

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e t o u Q of the week Slowly, lower your right leg until it hovers above the floor and lift it back to center. Slowly, lower your left leg. Alternate legs, completing three sets of 20 repetitions. Complete rollups by beginning on your back with your legs extended and your arms above your head. Slowly lift your arms up and roll your back up off the floor, using the strength of your abdominals. Let your hands touch your toes, folding over your body and slowly lower back down.

BEAUTY BYTES:

Sugar crystals rubbed on your lips help to get rid of flaky skin leaving lips smoother and softer.

That is it for today my readers! Hope you enjoyed this piece! Remember you read it here first!

For comments and questions please email terimendes@gmail. com, @terimendes. I would love to hear from you, till next week. - it’s ta ta for now! XOXO

Dear Chimmy, Thanks for writing in, Simply put, butter is made from cream, margarine is hydrogenated vegetable oil.

Brown rice and Ofada rice are readily available and now come in packs like Uncle Ben’s rice. In Lagos, Park and shop, Ebeano Supermarket as well as Sura shopping mall all sell Ofada Rice. If in Abuja, try Amigos Supermanrket or Grand Square.

Hope this helps, Best wishes,

Teri M

Dr. Gerald Lyons & DG Pencom, Chinelo Anohu-Amazu

H.E Nazir El Rufai addresses the press

Diplomats and the Co Chairmen of WPS at the Africa Pension Awards

WORLD PENSION SUMMIT AFRICA AND AFRICA PENSION AWARDS HOLDS IN ABUJA

L to R H.E Emmanuel Udom, Mrs. Chinelo Anohu-Amazu & H.E Atiku Bagudu

In recognition of the innovation, excellence and commitment to the development of pensions in Africa, the National Pension Commission (PenCom) hosted the global community to the inaugural Africa Pension Awards in Abuja.

PenCom also hosted the 2nd World Pension Summit ‘Africa Special’ 2015 in Abuja, with over 400 pension & financial services professionals in attendance to drive enduring and sustainable pension systems in Africa.

Here are some of the winners and participants at the ceremony held Tuesday, October 6, at the Transcorp Hilton, Abuja.

Award recipents Pencom Nigeria Award recipents Pencom Nigeria

Staci Warden

Rep. of the SGF, Rt. Hon. G. N Samani and a guest Middle Chinelo Anohu Amazu flanked by a diplomat and Spouse

Waje

BEZ

Mirjam Staub-Biseng

Dr. Gerald Lyons Chief Economic Adviser to the Mayor of London with H.Es Nasir El Rufai, Emmanuel Udom & Atiku Bagudu

November 1, 2015 /

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FOOD E

luxury

wines spirits

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With Pamela Echemunor

TOP GINS IN THE WORLD

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Gins are popularly known to be celebratory drinks. Gin has evolved over time, it’s known to be medicinal in some cultures and used as a bargaining chip in others.

Some gins surpass others in many respects. Here are some of our top picks.

1

CAORUNN

The Caorunn is a well balanced fruity flavoured drink that is dry and crisp when taken neat. With a sparing mix of tonic, its subtle notes are fantastic.

Distilled in small batches at a Distillery in Scotland’s Speyside region, the Caorunn is a tongue pleaser.

2

WILLIAMS CHASE

With a fascinating blend of juniper, apple and elderflower alongside subtle citrus, William Chase gin is the perfect tonic partner. Serve this with a slice of fresh apple. The finished gin is distilled over 100 times with the entire process taking over two years, from orchard to bottle.

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BEEFEATER 24

Whiskey is mostly beer that’s been distilled two or three times. To refine whiskey, you first have to make beer. Beer is a scientific term for whiskey wash, regardless of the type of ingredients used.

4

HAYMAN’S 1850 RESERVE

This gin has very subtle and smooth placid notes of wood. It also has hints of spice and pepper from the juniper and coriander. The Hayman 1850, is the third gin to be introduced by the Hayman’s distillery.

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HENDRICKS This classic drink is delicate and subtle on the tongue, with light woody accents.

It’s especially appreciated because of its magnificent bottle.

By Pamela Echemunor

10 Delicious Salads Salads are the go-to food for weight loss. They’re light, delicious and they contain all the essential nutrients the body needs. Salads can be made from vegetables, to cheese to fruit based salads. Salads can be eaten alone or as a side dish. Here are some delicious salads to consider.

1. Tomato-Peach Salad: Toss tomato and peach wedges with red onion slices. Drizzle with cider vinegar and olive oil; season with sugar, salt and pepper.

2. Creole Green Beans: Combine blanched thin green beans and red onion slices. Toss with mustard, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper.

3. Champagne Greens: Whisk 1 part champagne vinegar with 3 parts olive oil, and salt and pepper. Toss with lettuce.

4. Caesar Salad: Purée minced garlic and anchovies, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, salt, pepper and 1 egg yolk; add 1/4 cup olive oil. Toss with lettuce; top with Parmesan and croutons (crouton is a piece of sautéed or rebaked bread, often cubed and seasoned).

5. Tomatoes with Mint: Sprinkle tomato chunks with salt, pepper and sliced purple onions; set aside 5 minutes. Top with fresh mint; drizzle with olive oil and white wine vinegar.

6. Pasta Caprese: Mix chilled cooked fusilli pasta, diced mozzarella, chopped tomatoes, basil, toasted pine nuts and minced garlic; season with salt and pepper.

7. Chicken-Mango Salad: Whisk 1 tablespoon each lemon juice and honey, some grated ginger and 1/4 cup olive oil; toss with shredded grilled chicken, mesclun greens and diced mango 8. Oranges with Mozzarella: Stack mozzarella and orange slices with basil. Drizzle with olive oil; season with salt and pepper Cut the kernels off an ear of corn; cook in olive oil with yellow apple slices. Toss with yellow grape tomatoes, basil, salt and pepper.

9. Ambrosia Salad: Whisk coconut milk with grated orange zest and vanilla. Toss with sliced grapes, tangerines and apples and chilly. Garnish with toasted coconut and walnuts.

10. Black-Eyed Pea Salad: Whisk lime juice with minced garlic, ground cumin, salt, cilantro and a big splash of olive oil. Toss with black-eyed peas, minced jalapeño, and diced tomato, red onion and avocado.

Email: pamela.echemunor@gmail.com, Instagram: @nanya2207, Twitter @nanya2207.

PEO PL E

“ONE PARTY AT A TIME!”

:08039675880

Tito Idakula

Toke Makinwa

Kunbi Onyelese

noble igwe

Bolanle Olukomi

Sheyi Shey Oby Ezekwesili

bez

BEZ, HOLDS album LISTENING Party By - Oscar Ochiogu

BEZ, hosted an album listening party at FUSE Lounge, Victoria Island, where tracks on his sophomore album were played and performed live.

The event was attended by a host of stars and media personalities including Seyi Shay, Falz, Olisah Adibua, Audu Maikori, Toke Makinwa, Timi Dakolo, Kunbi Oyelese, Tito Idakula, Kaylah Oniwo, Makida Moka and Ozzy Agu, and many more.

Produced by Cobhams Asuquo, the “Gbagyi Child” album features diverse sounds with different origins and stories.

While some of the songs were made by infusing the traditional drums sounds obtained in Bez’s village in Nassarawa, he also worked with Beyonce’s percussionist Marcie Chapa on others.

Anita Nnabuife

Funke Bucknor

Izobe Spiff of Tres Bien Events & team

THE EVENT SHOW 2015 By - Latasha Ngwube

Jennifer Walters

Isoken of Dezua Event

falz

Akpos Okudu

Makida Moka

Olisa Adibua

tonye garrick

timi dakolo

Victoria Kimani

Denrele Edun

Amaechi Okobi

The Event Show returned this year for another successful outing and bore the tag“Pink Matter”. This year’s event celebrated women in business and empowered Nigerian women on how to be balance and excel in the combined roles of Wife, Mother and Career Woman. Held in the city of Port Harcourt and organised by leading South South Event Company, Tres Bien Events founded and run by Mrs Izobe Spiff, the event assembled key event industry players, over 60 vendors/ exhibitors and more than 2000 guests at the Aztech Arcum Event Centre.

The 2-day event included exhibitions and seminars featuring top Nigerian voices like Funke Bucknor-Obruthe of Zapphaire Events, Nike Ogunlesi of Ruff n Tumble as well as Runway showcases from seasoned designers; Ade Bakare, Mai Atafo, Kiki Kamanu and many others. There was also musical entertainment by Victoria Kimani and leading guitarist, John Bethel.

November 1, 2015 /

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