XCEL International Magazine Issue 47 (Pt. 1)

SIR CELESTINE OMEHIA JOINS LEAGUE OF EMINENT AFRICANS No. 47

International N 500 8 3 GHc 6 201302

Barack Hussein Obama

Soaring in the Storm of History

DAY DEC OIL & GAS BOSS, SIR PATRICK UGBOMA LAID MOTHER, VERONICA TO REST IN FANFARE

AGELESS & GLAMOUROUS LADY OF STYLE, AYO IGODAN NIMFAS CELEBRATES DIAMOND AGE

THE SPLENDID MARRIAGE BLESSING OF IBIYE & ONENGIYA IN PORT HARCOURT OMOKU COMES ALIVE AS THE AHIAKWOS BADE MAMA FELICIA GOLDE FAREWELL

ALSO FREE INSIDE: XCEL FASHION SPLENDOR

DEBONAIR GENTLEMAN BARR. MINABELEM MICHAEL WEST CELEBRATES GOLDEN AGE

Number 47

International

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Obama Inauguration Against All Odds, OBAMA Soars

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Milestone

OMEHIA Joins League of Eminent Africans 37 …Receives African Achievers Award Fashion & Style

BARR. MINABELEM MICHAEL WEST, mni 26 …Celebrates 50th Birthday in Grand Style

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Maintaining A Healthy And Glowing Skin 72

Ageless And Glamourous,AYO IGODAN NIMFAS Rededicates Life To God At 60 12

Fashion Counsel Keeping Your Jewelry Safe

Society

For Men Only

The Splendid Marriage Blessing Of IBIYE & ONENGIYA In Nigeria’s Oil-rich Garden City 53

Shaving Tips For Men With Sensitive Skin 74

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Trendy Splash

Passage Ossomala Goes Agog As Dec Oil & Gas Boss, SIR (DR.) PATRICK UGBOMA Laid Mother, VERONICA 42 To Rest In Fanfare Tears and Tribute in Torrents as MAMA FELICIA GOLDE AHIAKWO is Laid to Rest in Omoku Amidst Pomp 65

Fun, Fabulous, Fierce ANKARA Fabric 75 The Beauty Files

Growing Strong Nails

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Departments 6 XCEL People:

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Cheers To Africa’s CNN 2012 Heroes

10 Broda Akpojiomie: Letter To My Beloved President

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12 Health Matters:

Water: A Gush Of Life, A Harvest Of Good...

36 Feminine Talk:

Taming The Monster Of Violence Against...

40 Moving Up The Ladder: Success Is An Inside Job 52 Business & Money: Identifying Strategic Leaders For Business ...

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60 Parenting:

Keeping Your Kids At A Healthy Weight

62 Career Wise:

Preparing And Delivering A Winning Paper...

64 Relationship:

Coping With Long Distance Relationship

66 Thinking Cap:

The Judiciary And Its Canker-worms

THE PEOPLES’ VOICE The letter by Adamu Lukman from Kaduna is the Star Letter of this edition and wins our N1,000 prize money.

Congratulations.

Dear Editor, I have been an avid reader of your regular column PARENTING for a number of editions now. Your 46th edition with the topic Father: A son's Hero, A daughter's First Love is a special piece that addresses the crucial role of effective fatherhood in the society. It is a truism that “Fathers are becoming an endangered species” in this ever busy world that survives mostly on the push of button and the click of a mouse. Most kids of nowadays look for heroes in the television and internet rather than at the home front. Our society, more than ever, is in dire need of responsible fathers to whom our children can look up to as excellent role models. Thanks for having the family institution at heart.

Oluwatobi Osho, Abeokuta.

Dear Oluwatobi, Thanks for being a consistent and loyal reader of Xcel Magazine. As part of our Corporate Social Responsibility, we are ever committed to bringing to our esteemed readers across the world, articles that highlights societal ills and provides workable solutions to such ills.

Dear Editor, From the deep of my heart, I want to congratulate XCEL Magazine for a great twelve years of impactmaking as a trailblazer in the coverage of events, lifestyle and celebrations having a perfect blend of infotainment and edutainment packages and columns that equip readers with necessary information to better their lives. With a voracious appetite, going through the Milestones pages which chronicled an interview with the publisher, I became acquainted with the journey of XCEL Magazine so far. It was a worthwhile adventure. May the good Lord continue to expand XCEL's frontiers as you continue to celebrate excellence.

Preye Douglas, Port Harcourt.

Dear Douglas, Thanks for celebrating with us, and we treasure the confidence you repose in us. The journey so far as a media outfit has been a mix of groans and glory. We have survived several tortuous travails and savour the taste of many victories. Our philosophy of celebrating excellence and the precious experiences we have garnered so far will continue to be the springboar d for serving you better. You are dear to us.

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Dear Editor, Your 46th edition was my first time of reading your magazine. I enjoyed every bit of the pages and I can confidently say I was impressed. Specifically, the page on HEALTH MATTERS with the topic : The Incredible Health Benefits of Tomatoes. I have

come to appreciate better the value of Tomatoes as a fruit and vegetable. This column is very educative and enlightening.

Kudos.

Ruth Jack, Delta Dear Ruth, Thanks for your wonderful comment. That is a boost for us. We are always poised to supply our treasured readers with Health articles that are capable of upgrading their life. We firmly believe that Health is Wealth.

Dear Editor, I had a wonderful time going through the Moving Up The Ladder page of your 46th Edition with the topic: Dare to Live your Dream. I must say that I was inspired by the masterpiece write up. Right now, I am bolder to live my dream.

I understand that having a dream is not enough, success can only come by living my dreams via acting on them. Not only that I have a better understanding of purpose but also how to live out my purpose because that is where true fulfillment lies. It is crystal clear that XCEL Magazine is blessed with a team of columnists and writers that put into consideration the need of their readers. Thanks for changing the way I used to think.

Adamu Lukman, Kaduna Dear Adamu, Thanks for reading XCEL Magazine .The fact is that there are millions of people who have great dreams but lack the will-power to live those dreams. Such people need a push to translate their dreams to reality. And the obvious fact is that the world does not celebrate dreamers but people who possess the tangible proof-realities of their dreams. You mean so much to us.

Dear Editor, Congratulations for a grand twelve years of celebrating excellence. XCEL Magazine has truly grown in leaps and bounds. Your twelve anniversary edition was unbeatable and classic.

Specifically, I must c o m m e n d y o u r C O R P O R A T E EXCELLENCE pages with the theme: CELEBRATING NIGERIA'S GLOBALLY RATED BANKS which xrays the performance of our banks in the light of the rating by a world class magazine. It was quite informative and educative. Your teeming readers are better equipped to make right investment and banking decision. As the global economy continue to face hard times as forecasted by economists , the world will continue to be in need of up-to-date information in order to stay above the crunching effects of the economic crisis. Kudos.

Adeniyi, Ikeja.

Dear Adeniyi, As the global economic meltdown continue to

ravage economies of nations, it is necessary that people everywhere are better informed as to how to stay afloat the effects of the crises through wise banking and investment decision. Thanks for your contribution.

Dear Editor, Thanks for publishing a speech delivered by my distant mentor Philip Emeagwali titled: AFRICA MUST PRODUCE OR PERISH. I was motivated and refired by this article. Our problem in Africa is not money or resources; It is our mindset which can be attributed to ignorance and lack of proper education. Africa problem is Africa leaders who are doing very little in training and developing the mental capacities of Africans. Nigeria, Singapore and Malaysia all gained Independence within the same period. But today Nigeria is trailing at the far back while Singapore and Malaysia which value education and skill acquisition have become key players in the global economy. My worry for Nigeria is that If we don't invest in qualitative education now, a generation of ignorant leaders will emerge that will bring evil upon this country. God bless Nigeria. Thanks Chijoke, Awka Dear Chijoke, Thanks for sharing in our deep concern for development in Africa. Philip Emeagwali is a respected global voice that we celebrated in one of our previous edition as an XCEL People Hero due to his contribution to development in Africa and we do share in his burden for change in Africa. Thanks for your encouragement.

Dear editor, I am a regular reader of your XCEL Fashion Splendor. Going through the 46th edition Fashion Splendor pages was a great experience. Particularly, the Michelle Obama story made interesting reading. I discovered that the America's First Lady is a person with a simple and moderate sense of fashion who models true leadership for women everywhere.

Unlike many First Ladies in Africa, she is not extravagant, and she put her country first in her heart. She is a beautiful woman that I look up to for leadership. Thanks Bella Jaja, Port Harcourt Dear Bella, Thanks for your comment. As a custom of celebrating excellence, we were pulled by the simplicity and modesty of the fashion style of African-American First Lady, Michelle Obama who has set new style in the fashion industry. Following Michelle style sense, you don't have to be a millionaire before you look gorgeous, fabulous and world-class. For us Michelle is an inspiration.

PUBLISHER’S MESSAGE

Amnesty to Boko Haram

Acting Editor Obinna Ebogidi Operations (Nigeria) Dare Adesanya - Kaduna Olawale Osolo - Abeokuta Mohammed Dikko - North Business Development Akin Williams - South-West Mohammed Ladan - North Weni Diffa - South-South Yakubu Akhagbemhe Foreign Operations Chief Otonye Igoni (UK) Ralph Odua +13474995559 (USA) Ossai Ngozi (South Africa) +27827070039 Woods Eyituoyo (South Africa) +27765599668 Editorial Babafemi Omosehin Emmanuel Ameh Photo Journalists Eke Okoro Ogechi Gift Golden IT/Web Operations Syswaves Digitech Services Computer Graphics/Typeset Uzezi Elebe (Head) BUREAUX USA 100 Elgar Place,Apt. 17g Bronx NY 10475 USA, Tel: +19406031721 United Kingdom 3 Guildford Road, London, E6 5QS Mobile: +447924572640 South Africa Xcel Media SA (PTY) Limited.

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Tel: +27727533060, +27827927278 United Arab Emirates African Restaurant Deira-Dubai XCEL Magazine is a periodical publication of XCEL Media Limited LAGOS 10b Olufunmilola Okikiolu Street, Off Toyin Street,Ikeja, Lagos Tel: 01-8949344 SOUTHERN NIGERIA REGIONAL OFFICE 1st Floor, Left wing, 31 Aba Road, Opposite Union Bank, Port Harcourt Tel: 0803-7825667,08055181009, 08098559998

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CREDITS Inspiration, Wisdom and Strength - God Almighty Special thanks - Our loyal Readers

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International

Publisher/Editor-In-Chief Barth E. Emuekpere

barth@xcelmediaonline.com

..An attempt at Self-destruct

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ts common knowledge that if a structure must stand the test of time, a solid foundation is a prerequisite. This is a universal norm which permeates every aspect of life. For a nation to grow and survive the vagaries of nation building, such a nation must be built on a solid foundation and for any program to be successful and sustainable, it must have a well thought-out strategy plan or document. In the absence of a proper strategy framework, such a program or project is likely to crumble like a pack of cards.

Today, our news media is a washed with stories of amnesty for Boko Haram as a panacea for peace in Nigeria. Whereas there is nothing wrong with granting amnesty, but there can be something wrong with the parameters or framework for granting the amnesty. For instance, when Amnesty literarily translates into financial empowerment for the criminal or pardoned, it becomes an incentive to commit crime, and a disincentive for law-aiding citizens, as they are tempted to embrace crime. It is for this reason that my school of thought feel strongly that the amnesty granted the Niger Delta militants was done on a wrong premise. It is an error Nigeria must be willing to correct.

First, lets look at the word 'Amnesty', which according to dictionary definition is "a general pardon for offenses, especially political offenses, against a government, often granted before any trial or conviction". That's all! However, Nigeria seems to have her own version of amnesty which goes beyond this definition to include financial rewards for the offenders. Here lies the bane of our Amnesty wahala. After all, drawing inference from the Holy Bible, in John chapter 8, when Jesus granted amnesty to the woman accused of adultery, it was simply with a charge to "...go and sin no more" That's all! No financial reward.

Another problem of this version is that we grant it at the battle field even when our opponent seems to be gaining upper hand in the fight. This is suggestive of a government negotiating out of fear, and so, begging with financial rewards in amnesty cladding.

From the definition, it may not be out of place to adduce that Amnesty is an alternative to trial and conviction. If this is right, then before trial and conviction, the government must be seen to have won the fight, or sufficiently maintaining an upper hand such that the amnesty proclamation will be a soothing balm for the opponent. But ironically, in Nigeria, those offered amnesty, more often than not, reject the amnesty, insisting that it is the government that need the amnesty. In other words, they see themselves as the victors who should rather, grant the nation pardon (Amnesty).

The recent rejection of amnesty by members of Boko Haram is an indication that they are not prepared for genuine peace, where the right of worship and life of others will be respected. This is why President Jonathan must be weary of some of the proponents of Amnesty for Boko Haram, who had at sometimes made provocative statements, especially those drawing comparison between Boko Haram and the Niger Delta militants as this may just be an attempt at ensuring adequate federal character representation, even on amnesty issue.

Whereas I have said it from the onset that I am not a proponent of the Nigerian kind of amnesty, but the truth remains that the two agitations are not

comparable. While the Niger Delta militants agitated for the physically visible neglect of the region by successive governments, Boko Haram appears to have adopted a systematic approach to religious and ethnic cleansing.

This is why it is a widely held notion that granting amnesty to Boko Haram will amount to another way of rewarding the lawlessness of the sect, for killing Christians and destroying their Churches as a way of annihilating the religion and probably instituting Sharia Law in Nigeria.

It is also not out of place that some people are of the opinion that monetary rewards to the sect will translate to empowerment that will assist them in procuring more bombs and guns or better still, build more sophisticated bomb making factories to fight the nation.

Yesterday it was Niger Delta militants, today it is Boko Haram and if for any reason they get the proposed amnesty, tomorrow has one certainty, the birth of many more regional groups or militias requiring amnesty. It is for this reason that we must act wisely. If Boko Haram succeed and go home with the blessing of amnesty, even in the face of such an ignoble and incomprehensible objective of Islamizing Nigeria and imposing Sharia laws, then we must be prepared to grant many more tomorrow. Let's remind ourselves as a nation that it's not too late to correct our mistakes of yesterday today in the interest of a better tomorrow Perhaps the story of a university Vice-chancellor may help to shed a little more light on this issue.

Apparently disturbed by the rising case of frequent clashes between two rival cult groups in his institution, in his own wisdom, and probably based on the advice he received from the wise men around him, he considered it necessary to tow the line of persuasion, having been told or convinced that matching the Cultist with force may not be the panacea for peace in the institution. In the interest of

ensuring that peace return to the campus thereby fostering a conducive environment for learning, he went ahead with his plan. He did convene a peace meeting with the leaders of the groups, fete them and appealed to them. He made them understand why the need for peace is nonnegotiable. He did not stop there as his quest for lasting and sustainable peace drove him to granting monetary rewards to them, just to pacify them, and probably enable them organize their groups and send home the message of Peace at last. A novel idea it seems from the face value and all those who pushed forward the idea became happy. To them, it was another success story they were proud to be associated with.

Surprisingly, the dust from the euphoria of peace at last and the celebration of the authors of the peace plan, had hardly settled when more issues resonated. The smaller Cult groups which were hitherto not in reckoning saw the need to announce their presence, and sooner than anyone thought, the entire campus was taken over by a multiplicity of Cult groups seeking relevance and reckoning.

Even some members of the foremost two who felt marginalized in the sharing of the l a r g e s s e f r o m t h e Vi c e Chancellor, broke away and formed their own groups, if for nothing, to get their perceived fair share of the largesse. Ironically, the campus for which the VC sort lasting peace, became a battleground where territorial control became the bone all the dogs wanted. Guess what? The Campus became so hot that the same VC who sought peace, ran away for his dear life.

It is my fervent prayer that this may never be the path our beloved nation is threading, and may our own president never have cause to run away like the VC. The time to avoid that is now, and the decision is on the table. Mr. President should not compound our mistake of yesterday, act wisely today and save our tomorrow.

XCEL PEOPLE

CHEERS TO AFRICA’S CNN 2012 HEROES As Third World Countries continue to battle with poverty, diseases, ignorance, war, sexual violence and the devastating effects of natural disaster, confusion and hopelessness have consistently dotted the search for permanent and possible remedy to these gigantic challenges. Sadly to say, most citizens in these developing countries live long enough with these maladies that they begin to see life only in the light of their problems. Often times, their thinking and creative abilities are crippled, having no expectation for better tomorrow. However,

the proactiveness and response of some compassionate few, who themselves, most times have been victims of these maladies, have not only brought succor to many around them, but have elicited ovations across the globe. In this edition, in recognition of their heroic deeds, we present and decorate four black people that were recognized by CNN as part of the CNN 2012 Heroes due to their positive landmark impact in their communities and service to humanity, with the prestigious XCEL PEOPLE Seal of Honour.

Thulani Madondo

T

hulani Madondo, 30, grew up in a family of nine and confronted many of the same struggles his peers endured headlong with unalloyed determination and spirited hope for a brighter future. Financial pressure forced all of his older siblings to drop out of high school.

But Madondo washed cars and worked as a stock boy to earn money to stay in school, and he became the first member of his family to graduate from high school.

Ultimately, he couldn't afford to go to college, which was a disappointment.

"It was hard. ... You feel like you have no power over your future," Madondo said. It's that mentality that Madondo and several other young Kliptown natives were looking to change when they founded the Kliptown Youth Program five years ago. Rather than wait for the government to come to the rescue, they decided to take matters into their own hands.

"We didn't want to see other young people going through what we'd gone through: no uniforms ... feeling hungry in class," Madondo said. "We know the problems of this community, but we also know the solutions." One of the young people that was helped by Madondo's group, Brian Munyai, has spent nearly all of his 22 years living in a small metal shack that has never had electricity or running water. He shares a pit latrine with his neighbors. He bathes in a bucket with water drawn from the communal tap. At night, he reads with an oil lamp. Conditions like this are typical for the nearly 40,000 people who live in the slums of Kliptown, a district in the largely black township of Soweto, South Africa. Generations of families have lived in these ramshackle homes just 15 miles from Johannesburg, the economic capital of the country.

The community has long suffered from high rates of unemployment, crime and school dropouts, and the end of apartheid more than two decades ago did little to change the situation.

Munyai worked hard, however, and in high school, he heard about the Kliptown Youth Program. The afterschool program, commonly known as KYP, provided him with intensive

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tutoring that helped him pass his senior exams and find funding to attend the University of Johannesburg. He recently earned a national diploma in banking.

"This program actually changed my future," Munyai said. "(Without it), right now, I would not be standing here and saying that I went to university.”

Stories like this motivate Thulani Madondo, the director and co-founder of KYP. A lifelong Kliptown resident, he has a goal of helping people like Munyai change their lives and their community through education.

Right now, Madondo's group provides academic support, meals and after-school activities to 400 children.

"There are more than 10,000 children in the community, so working with 400 might seem like nothing," Madondo said. "But if (they) are dedicated ... we can make a difference."

Books can be borrowed from the program's library -- the only one in the community -- and there are nearly 300 Internet-accessible laptops that were donated through the non-profit One

Thulani Madondo

Laptop Per Child. So far, 21 members, including Munyai, have gone on to a university.

Madondo believes that each student who succeeds is paving the way to lift their family and their community out of poverty. When asked about their potential careers, the students' answers run the gamut: scientist, lawyer, editor, and accountant.

"Helping them, I feel excited," Madondo said. "We want them to realize there's something they can contribute to this world. ... We're trying to give them the sense that everything is possible.”

Wanda Butts

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anda Butts dropped the phone and screamed when she heard the news that her son was dead. Josh had drowned while rafting on a lake with friends. The 16-yearold didn't know how to swim, and he wasn't wearing a life jacket."I couldn't believe it, I didn't want to believe it: that just like that, my son had drowned and he was gone," she said, recalling the 2006 tragedy.Butts had worried about her son's safety when it came to street violence or driving, and she said she had always warned him of those dangers. But water accidents never crossed her mind. "It did not occur to me that my son would drown because he didn't know water safety," she said. "Josh was never taught the basic life skill of learning how to swim.”

As Butts tried to make sense of her son's tragedy, she realized she had passed her own inexperience to her son. Her father had witnessed a drowning when he was young and instilled in her a fear of

water. "So as a child, I never went around water," said Butts, 58. "I never went swimming. I didn't know anything about water or life jackets and water safety."

Because of this fear, Butts raised Josh without any exposure to water. But today, she is determined to prevent other mothers from doing the same. In 2007, she started the Josh Project, a non-profit organization that provides low-cost swimming lessons for children in Toledo, Ohio.

“After losing my son, I wanted to do something to help other people, to help another mother not have to suffer the way I do every day from the loss of a child drowning," she said.To date, the Josh Project has helped more than 1,000 children learn how to swim.

Butts is doing much more, however, than just providing swimming lessons."She ups the awareness, and that is half the battle," said Shaun Anderson, a swimming coach who was so inspired by her story that he created a Josh Project swimming program at Norfolk State University in Virginia. "Once these communities learn how to swim, they will pass it down, which results in future generations that know how to swim."

Butts said she has two goals for the future: One is to change the drowning statistics of minority children, and the other is to have an aquatic center where the children can swim daily instead of just once a week.

Wanda Butts

"The joy on the faces of those children -when they see that they can learn, once they get it – they are so happy with themselves," she said. "And it's like all of them are my children. It's like I didn't lose my son.”

Jackson Kaguri

give ... is to try and eliminate as many obstacles as possible, so children can be successful and focus on education." Kaguri added.

Today, in the two schools, there are 587 students -- kindergarten through 12th grade -- receiving a free education and health care.

Nearly all of them have lost either one or both parents to AIDS-related illnesses.

The issue hits especially close to home for Kaguri, who has lost his brother, one of his sisters and a 3-year-old nephew to the disease.

In 2008, he started a program that offers support and education to the nearly 7,000 area grandmothers who are raising their

grandchildren. The program teaches the women practical life skills, offering advice on parenting, grief management, basic medical care, gardening and business development.

Kaguri says that by giving grandmothers' access to micro funds, allowing them to start small businesses and make money, more children have access to an education. And by giving seeds to the grandmothers to grow, more children have access to food.

Kaguri, whose organization is based in Michigan and is funded by individual donations and private foundations, spends much of his time fundraising, speaking and raising awareness. He hopes this younger generation will lift the country out of poverty and create a better future for their families and communities. He says he dreams about building a school in every district in Uganda.

Malya Villard-Appolon Jackson Kaguri

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isiting his former village in rural Uganda, Jackson Kaguri, a 41 years old married man, was the epitome of a success story. He had escaped poverty, earned a college degree and moved to America, where he studied at an Ivy League school and planned to put a down -payment on a house in Indiana. He'd often come back to Uganda, passing out school supplies to children. But on one particular trip home in 2001, he realized he had to do more."We woke up in the morning, and grandmothers had lined up all around the house, stretching way back. ... The whole village had gathered," Kaguri said. "All these women walked miles and miles. It was huge.�

UNICEF estimates that 1.2 million children in Uganda have lost one or both parents to AIDS-related illnesses, and Kaguri said it's often grandmothers who have to pick up the slack.

According to him, "..the grandmothers over and over whose own children have died and left them. Some of them have up to 14 (grandchildren) to raise in their homes.

Sometimes the child has HIV/AIDS, they need medication. The grandmother needs food. They need a house. And nothing is there." The grandmothers who gathered in Kaguri's childhood village begged Kaguri to help them. And he felt an obligation to give more than just pens, pencils and paper."These are women who had seen me grow up in the village," he said. "They carried me when I was hurt, they prayed for me when I was away studying. What was I supposed to do?"

Knowing that education had been so key to his success, Kaguri and his wife decided to use their life savings to start two free schools in the village. They purchased two acres of land and built the Nyaka School, brick by brick, with the help of local volunteers. When the school officially launched on January 2, 2003, 56 AIDS orphans were the first students.

"We provide them uniforms. We provide them pencils. We give them shoes. Everything we

M

alya Villard-Appolon is a rape survivor who cofounded the KOFAVIV, an organization that help victims of sexual violence in Haiti.Villard-Appolon knows what it's like to be a victim of sexual violence. She has been raped twice, and her husband died as a result of beatings he endured trying to save her from being raped. In 2010, her 14-yearold daughter was raped in a displacement camp."I can't describe to you how I felt when I heard about that, because I was a victim," she said. "I started asking myself what kind of generation I came from. Am I cursed?�

She escorted her daughter to two police stations and received no assistance, she said, just a lot of talk. One police officer told her that "girls are so promiscuous" and indicated that many young girls are asking for sex.

But she carries on, "fighting with hope that I know there will be a change," she said.

Internationally, she has testified before the United Nations Human Rights Council, calling for increased security within the displacement camps and asking that women's groups be included in decisionmaking processes.

"I was a victim, and I did not find justice. But know I will get it for other women," she told CNN. When the earthquake hit Haiti, KOFAVIV's founders watched their clinic and their offices collapse along with their homes.Even before the quake, she says, rape was an issue in Haiti, historically underreported because of social stigma, retaliation from perpetrators and a lack of legal support.

That is what led her and Marie Eramithe Delva to start KOFAVIV in 2004. Since the group's inception, it has helped more than 4,000 rape survivors find safety, psychological support and/or legal aid.

Despite the escalating violence and the loss of its clinic, KOFAVIV regrouped to help victims in Haiti's "tent city" camps, where about 500,000 people still live today. The group has 66 female outreach agents and 25 male security guards who work within the camps, organizing nighttime community watch groups and providing whistles and flashlights to women. All of them have been affected by gender-based violence, whether

Malya Villard-Appolon personally or through a family member or loved one, Villard-Appolon said.KOFAVIV also relies on more than 1,000 members to help share their stories, support the victims and urge them to come forward and fight for justice.

It usually starts by accompanying the victims to the hospital within 72 hours of being raped. Once they undergo a test, they receive the medical certificate they must have to begin legal proceedings.

"After that, we assign a lawyer to her," Villard-Appolon said. There is no cost to the victims, and they receive support from KOFAVIV through the trial.

Villard-Appolon says she is determined to keep fighting for a brighter future, even though justice has been elusive."My dream is that we will get to a place where we stop talking about the number of rape cases," she said. "We will stop talking about Haiti as a country where people are committing violence against others. One day, we have to be able to say that we have a country with people who respect each other.�

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AFRICA PERISCOPE

Egytian Ex-president, Mubarak Returns to prison during his first trial and at the 13 April hearing.

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ormer Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak has been ordered back to prison from military hospital. Mr Mubarak's retrial will open on 11 May, a Cairo appeals court says. He is charged alongside his former interior minister and six former security chiefs with complicity in the murder and attempted murder of hundreds of protesters in January 2011.

Mr Mubarak will also face a retrial on corruption charges, along with his sons, Alaa and Gamal, and businessman Hussein Salem. They were found not guilty at the first trial.

The former leader has been in poor health since his arrest and appeared on a stretcher

About 850 people were killed in the crackdown during the 2011 uprising that ended Mr Mubarak's rule. Deaths during the uprising were largely blamed on the police at the time, but a recent leaked report implicated the army in serious human rights abuses, including the killing and torture of protesters. The leaked chapter, reportedly presented to President Mohammed Morsi late last year, contains testimony relating to civilians detained at military checkpoints who were never seen again and reports that the army delivered

unidentified bodies to coroners. Egypt's Defence Minister Abdel Fatah al-Sissi denied the accusations, calling them a betrayal.

Uhuru Kenyatta Sworn In As Kenya's New President

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t was the dawning of a new era on Tuesday 16th April,2013 as Kenya swore in its youngest-ever president before a massive crowd, including numerous heads of state and American civil rights activist

Jesse Jackson.Uhuru Kenyatta became the country's fourth president after a prolonged election dispute that ended up in the Kenyan Supreme Court.

Tens of thousands of people packed at Nairobi stadium Tuesday to watch the inauguration.

Jackson, a former U.S. presidential candidate, attended the festivities as a private guest.

Kenyatta, the 51year-old son of Kenya's founding leader, won the election with 50.07% of the vote. His chief rival, Raila Odinga, won 43.31% of the vote. Odinga challenged the outcome in court, saying it was flawed

and marred by technical problems.

After the court upheld Kenyatta's election, Odinga offered the president-elect his congratulations."The court has now spoken," Odinga said. "I wish the president-elect and his team well.”

Kenyatta and Odinga are the sons of the nation's first president and vice president, respectively -- stirring memories of a political dynasty that dates back to the 1960s.Their fathers started out as allies in the quest for Kenyan independence from Britain. But the elder politicians' relationship ended in bad blood when founding President Jomo Kenyatta forced out his vice president, Jaramogi Odinga, following a series of disputes.

Despite controversy over the recent election results, the mutual acceptance by the two sons could help restore the nation's image as a bastion of stability after disputed election results in 2007 led to bloody chaos.

NIGERIA'S GOVERNMENT CONSIDERS AMNESTY FOR BOKO HARAM

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igeria's Federal Government has finally considered amnesty for the dreaded Islamic sect popularly known as Boko Haram and set up a committee accordingly to dialogue with its members.

According to an official statement from the presidency, “President Goodluck Jonathan has approved the constitution of a Presidential Committee to constructively engage key members of Boko Haram and define a comprehensive and workable framework for resolving the crisis of insecurity in the country.” It further stated that “The Committee's terms of reference will include developing a framework for the granting of amnesty; setting up of a framework through which disarmament could take place within a 60-day time frame; the development of a comprehensive victims' support programme, and the development of mechanisms to address the underlying causes of

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insurgencies occurrences.”

that

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However, while many prominent Nigerians see amnesty option as a welcome development, some observers believe granting amnesty to a people who have killed about 4,000 innocent citizens and destroyed property worth billions of naira is promoting terrorism and making it a profitable venture in Nigeria.

The Committee n a m e d t h e Committee on Dialogue and Peaceful Resolution of Security Challenges in the North, is chaired by the Minister of Special Duties, Kabiru Tanimu Turaki. In his response, the Chairman, said President Jonathan

had by inaugurating the committee demonstrated his genuine desire to end the security challenges in the country.

The committee has 90 days to carry out its assignment.

A

French Family Taken Hostage Regained Freedom

French family with four young children kidnapped at gunpoint by Islamic extremists, Boko Haram, in northern Cameroon has been freed after two months in captivity, Cameroonian and French authorities said.

Neither government offered details on how or where the family was freed. The French president said all seven family members were in good health and the foreign minister said they were expected to return to France soon.

The February 19 kidnapping came as thousands of French troops were deeply involved in a military intervention against Islamic extremists in the West African country of Mali. French President Francois Hollande said authorities were able to make contact with the kidnappers through intermediaries, and negotiations intensified in recent days."We use all our contacts, but remain firm on our principles," Hollande said. "We are not changing the principle that France does not pay ransoms."

The French gas group GDF Suez has identified the captives as an employee who worked in YaoundĂŠ and his family. Gerard Mastrallet, the head of GDF, said the hostages were freed, but did not offer details."We were not involved in any negotiations but we knew that French authorities were very active," Mastrallet said in an press interview .

Sometimes in March 2013, a video showing the

head of the family taken hostage who called himself Tanguy Moulin-Fournier was released by the Islamic militants. The man said his family was in the custody of the Islamic radical sect known as Boko Haram who wants all its members freed, especially women and children held in Nigerian and C a m e r o o n i a n custody.

Nicolas MoulinFournier brother of the kidnapped man said the family was bolstered by an outpouring of support and never lost hope."That support allowed us to get through this ordeal," he said.

France has come under criticism over what diplomats and analysts say is a policy of indirectly paying ransoms through middlemen over the years. Vicki Huddleston, a former U.S. ambassador to Mali, alleged that France paid a $17 million ransom to free hostages seized from

a French mining site - the cash she said ultimately funded the al-Qaida-linked militants in Mali. French officials, however, denied paying any ransoms.

Neither Nigeria nor Cameroon reported any Boko Haram members were freed.

Reuben Abati, a spokesman for Nigeria's president, offered no information on any role his country may have played.

Son of Senegal's Ex-president Charged with Corruption

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he son of Senegal's former President Abdoulaye Wade is in police custody after being charged with corruption in connection with his personal fortune. Karim Wade denies the accusations that he illegally amassed about $1.4bn (ÂŁ900m) via a network of shadowy holding companies during his father's rule.

The 44-year-old, who was a senior minister during his father's rule from 2000 to 2012, was in charge of major infrastructure and energy projects and was the most powerful figure in his father's government. He was arrested in Dakar, just hours after his lawyers submitted documents relating to his assets to a courthouse.

Prosecutors announced an investigation into Mr Wade and five other former ministers last year. It followed the defeat of Abdoulaye Wade in the March 2012 presidential election by the present country leader, Macky Sall, who pledged to fight corruption.

During Abdoulaye Wade's 12-year rule, Karim Wade held several ministerial positions simultaneously, including minister for infrastructure and air transportation. His large portfolio led to his being dubbed "the minister of the earth and the sky", but it also put him in charge of a large proportion of Senegal's government budget at a time of largescale infrastructure spending.

8 People Shot Dead In Kenyan Hotel

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unmen shot dead eight people when they sprayed bullets into a hotel restaurant in the eastern Kenyan town of Garissa on Thursday 18 April,2013, the Kenya Red Cross said.

The east African nation has suffered a series of grenade and gun attacks since it sent troops into neighbouring Somalia in late 2011 to pursue the Al Shabaab rebels linked to Al Qaeda.

Though the wave of attacks on the capital, Nairobi, the port city of Mombasa, and Garissa has tapered off in recent weeks, the latest incident shows the new government of President Uhuru Kenyatta will still have to wrestle with insecurity. The Kenya Red Cross said on Twitter that eight people were killed while five others suffered gunshot

wounds and were evacuated to a local hospital.

Charlton Mureithi, regional police chief, the attack happened restaurant called Chege, adding they investigating who behind the attack trying to establish number of fatalities.

the said at a Kwa were was and the

towns, but still controls large parts of the countryside in Somalia. In February, Al Shabaab warned that Kenya would face a "long, gruesome" war if it kept up its campaign against the hardline Islamist group inside Somalia.

“Crime is dynamic. We have to establish the motive now," Mureithi told Reuters.

Al Shabaab has been driven from the Somali capital Mogadishu and the major XL

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Message to My

BRODA Akpojiomie Akpojiomie My dear brother & beloved President, First, let me start by apologizing for not seeing you the last time you visited home.

You know what we do, suffering and smiling in the creeks. I had actually gone to the fishing port to struggle for the weekend and when I returned my wife told me you had left. I hope I will be around when next you come.

Bros J, I was sitting at our usual Mama Africa Akpeteshi spot sipping some glass of the usual when I overheard that you have finally declared a State of Emergency in Borno, Adamawa and Yobe States. It was indeed a welcome relief when anyone considers the barbaric manner these religious mass bombers are killing innocent lives with impunity.

However, my president, I have my reservations as to the effectiveness of your kind of State of Emergency. Even as a fisherman in the village, I have never seen a situation where a State of Emergency is declared and democratic structures are allowed to run concurrently. So if that is the case, what is the emergency all about. You know that in a state of emergency situation some rights of the people are waved in the interest of peace. Bros you should know that democratic institutions such as the office of the Governor and commissioners will not support the declaration, especially in view of the fact that they are the first line casualties. They are not trained to understand military intelligence and tactics and so may not be able to function properly in such situations. The presence of the Governor and its executive council in those States will makes the chances of achieving the objectives difficult if not impossible.

Bros, you know that before declaration of State of Emergency, there must have been some unacceptable measure of breakdown of law and order. In this case you are aware of the seemingly untamable nature of the insurgence which have continuously ravaged the northern part of the country, unleashing terror on the people despite plans to grant them amnesty. They are deadly and so deserve no less than a full military

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Beloved President

intervention with a highranking retired or serving sole administrator in charge for a stipulated period of time, during which the existing civilian administration is out of office, until after the stipulated period.

Bros, I need to ask you who is in control at this time of emergency rule when there is a sitting democratically elected governor whom you have asked to continue exercising his constitutional duties?

After-all, his constitutional duties confers on him the chief law officer of the state status. You think of it, someone must be in charge. Who takes instruction from the other? The military commander or the governor? What relevant training does the governor have to enable him control or be in charge of military operations. The truth, my beloved president, between me and you, is that there may be more confusion now, as you have put in place, two captains aboard one ship. Bros, honestly, I foresee a conflict of authority in this matter as long as the governors of those states still hold their executive powers.

Bros, have you forgotten, not too long ago the State of Emergency of this nature that you declared in some Local Governments Areas in the same north, where the Chairmen were active in office even in the midst of those military interventions? Was it a success? Or is that the level of success you hope to achieve in this case?

Bros J, let's call a spade a spade, in an emergency situation like this, everybody becomes a suspect, including the politicians, no matter how highly placed.

Especially in this case, where there is a wide believe that most of the members of the insurgence have political backing.

After-all was it not one of the Boko Haram kingpins that was arrested in a governor's lodge? This is why you should have made it a completely military intervention in the affected states. We must encourage the military to take decisive steps they deem necessary to bring these insurgence to an end. If these evil perpetrators and their sponsors must be brought to book, then you must descend heavily on them with the full weight of the nation's military. They do not deserve any kick-glove approach.

www.xcelmediaonline.com

My beloved president, take for example the state of emergency in Ekiti State some years ago when Uncle OBJ was in charge. That military intervention was a huge success, largely because a top ranking military officer was made the Sole Administrator to coordinate and prosecute the goals of that State of Emergency. Bros J, we cannot say we want a state of emergency without advancing the accompanying working conditions that will make it a success. To me, Bros, what you presently declared in those states is at best a partial State of Emergency.

Taking a cue from some African countries such as Libya and Morocco, State of Emergency is seen as total military intervention that requires full military command in-charge within the rules of engagement. The State of Emergency in Libya and Morocco were carried out without any civilian government interference. The military were allowed to do their jobs, only the Commander-in Chief has power to interfere where necessary.

Bros, before I drop my pen, let me remind you as your kinsman that anything worth doing, is worth doing well. I believe you mean well for this country, but you need to ensure our national wealth is not wasted on a venture that is obvious may not yield results . Don't be guided by what the people will say, because if you don't, the same opposition will blame you for not doing, and if you do, they will still blame you for doing. So, it is important that you are guided by your desire to guarantee lasting peace in the country as long as you are operating within the ambits of the law. Were you not the person people castigated as being too weak to protect the life and properties of the citizens?

So, bros, now that you have chosen to use the whip, please use it without fear or favour as long as it is in the overall interest of the nation and her citizens.

Thank you and please extend my regards to your brother in Abuja, Namadi and your lovely wife. May the Almighty continue o help you propel the ship of state in the right direction.

Aluaoo!

Yours Sincerely, Akpos.

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MILESTONE

Ageless & Delectable Lady of Style,

AYO IGODAN NIMFAS, Dedicate Life to God @ 60

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hen you think of a lady with a perfect mix of beauty, resilience and style, Ayo Nimfas readily comes to mind. A sanguine and down-to earth Garden City's socialite, Ayo recently attained the Diamond age of 60 amidst pomp and pageantry. On the 28th of April, 2013, at The King's AssemblyStadium Road, Port Harcourt, it was a showcase of wondrous worship and praise, glitz and glamour in an atmosphere of boundless joy, as Ayo Nimfas, in company of her husband, children, friends and well-wishers rededicated her life to God in a thanksgiving service. It was in appreciation of God's goodness and protection at the age of 60.

The thanksgiving service which was officiated by Pastor Chris Ugoh, Senior Pastor of the King's Assembly and other anointed men of God. The service featured prayers for the Nimfas family, songs by the King's Assembly Choir and exhortation by the Senior Pastor. Testifying of God's grace in her life, the celebrant rendered a special number as the congregation looked enthralled.

After the Service, all road led to Port Harcourt Club, Forces Avenue, Old GRA, Port Harcourt for a topnotch reception which attracted friends and guests of the celebrant from far and wide, ranging from Columbus, Ohio and New Jersey in the United States to Lagos, Abuja, Adamawa and different parts of Nigeria. The event which paraded a list of notable dignitaries which include Sir O.C.J Okocha (MFR, SAN) and wife; Mr & Mrs Greg Ogbeifun; Chief (Mrs) Christy Zwingina; Mr and Mrs Godwin Igodan; Pastor Teke Chris Seomoni; Mrs Ireju Barasua; Mrs Amina Dan-Suleiman; Barr Femi Akinyode; Mrs Goma West, Rivers State Commissioner for Women Affairs, not missing out her wonderful friends was compered by Angel the Laugh.

Mr. & Mrs. George Nimfas cutting the birthday Cake

Ovations run like a stream as friends and family gave their comments on the life of the celebrant. In the words of her darling husband, Chief Sado George Nimfas, she “… is not a day older than when I first saw you”. For Obi-Eddie, a bossom friend of the celebrant, “Ayo is simply dogged and irrepressible…tested and a worthy friend”.

The reception hall was lit up with musical beats as Ayo Nimfa took to the dance floor and thrilled the audience who later joined her to rock the rhythm. The guests were treated to an unforgettable culinary experience with sumptuous delicacies and an array of assorted wines. Indeed there was no dull moment.

Mr. & Mrs. George Nimfas

“All thanks to God” ...delectable as ever

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The Nimfas join Mom

Barr. (Mrs) Serah Orage, Ayo Nimfas & Mrs Felicia Barber

The Nimfas with Pastor Chris Ugoh

Osas Owieadolor with The Sisters

Mrs Barber, Mrs Ogisi, Mrs Peterside & Chief (Mrs) Christie Zwingina

The Sisters

Ireju Barasua (2nd left), celebrant, Mrs Fanny & Mrs Zeinab

Celebrant’s Children, Friya, Emmanuel, Ige & Famile

Emmanuel, Victor, Iyore & Frama

Celebrant & friends

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The Nimfas

Mr. & Mrs Greg Obgeifun (Chairman of the event)

Two of a kind, Mrs. Ayo Nimfas & Mrs. Obi-Eddie Barber

Mr. & Mrs. Vincent Nehikhare

Mr. & Mrs. G. Idodan

The Okochas with Ayo Nimfas & Mrs Oby Igodan

The Omotoshos with Angel-De-Laugh (MC)

Amina Dan-Suleiman, Celebrant, Mrs. Barber & Barth (XCEL Publisher)

With first Child, Bala Nimfas (Father)

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Mr. Ibiwari Pepple, Ayo Nimfas & Rachael Hart

Celebrant & friends

The Nimfas & the Okochas

with friends

The Esthers

with friends

Ayo Nimfas with Mr. & Mrs. Fred Chiedozie

Mrs Fanny, Barr. Serah Orage, Mrs Judith & friend

Chioma, Mrs Bala Hassan, Ayo Nimfas & Mrs Barber

Celebrant's Sister with family members

The Sisters present a Potrait to celebrant XL

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Celebrant & Mrs. O.U. Nze-Dike

Ayo Nimfas with Mr. & Mrs Sam Onotu

Mr. & Mrs. Sanni, Celebrant & Lawrence

President of PHC Club, Sylverter Elemo (2nd right) & other members

Mr. Joe Owase, Ayo Nimfas, Mr. Okigbo Imo & Mrs Barber

Barr. Serah Orage, Ayo Nimfas & Samson Fiberesima

Amoni Peterside, Mrs Ogisi, Mrs Eunice Ndubuisi & Chief (Mrs) Zwingina

Mrs Minimah, Mrs Siya Braide, Mrs Cordelia Ebo & Mrs. Grace Jetta-Hart

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A cross-section of Guest

Susan Ayuba, Celebrant & Becky

Mr. & Mrs. Jude Ndubuisi with Mummy

Mrs Marycliff Oparaodu, Mrs. Dorothy Onukwuagha & Mrs. Flora Adabanya

Mrs Chinwe Onotu (c) & friends

Mrs. Ekama (left) with Mrs. Betty Agugba(right)

Idati Obadan & Nonso Barber

Nengi Bobmanuel & Frama Aboh

Osas, Famile & Osunobo

The Dappa-Addos & The Kalios

A beautiful rendition for Aunty Nimfas ID Efanga & Ibialafaa Harrison

Angel-De-Laugh performs

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WATER: o A Gush Off Life, A Harvest Of Good Health

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rinking a healthy amount of water is vital to your health. You can never imagine just by drinking a healthy amount of water, you gain tremendous health benefits. Water needs to be considered an essential nutrient.

Because of easy access we take water for granted and do not realize the importance of proper hydration. According to experts, water is ranked second only to oxygen as essential for life. A person can survive about two months without food, but only a few days without water.

In order to appreciate the benefits of water to your health, you need to understand the role of water in human body. The human body is anywhere from 55% to 78% water depending on body size. A rule of thumb, 2/3 of body is consists of water, and it is the main component of human body. Did you know that your tissues and organs are mainly made up of water? Here is the percentage composition.

Muscle consists of 75% water Brain consists of 90% of water Bone consists of 22% of water Blood consists of 83% water BENEFITS OF WATER IN THE BODY

Better Productivity at Work: Your brain is mostly made up of water, thus drinking water helps you think better, be more alert and more concentrated.

Better Exercise: Drinking water regulates your body temperature. That means you'll feel more energetic when doing exercises.

Water also helps to fuel your muscle.

Helps in Digestion and Constipation: Drinking water raises your metabolism because it helps indigestion. Fiber and water goes hand in hand so that you can have your daily bowel movement.

Less Cramps and Sprains: Proper hydration helps keep your joints and muscles lubricated, so you'll less likely get cramps and sprains.

Less Likely to Get Sick and Feel Healthy: Drinking plenty of water helps fight against flu and other ailments like kidney stones and heart attack. Water adds with lemon is used for ailments like respiratory disease, intestinal problems, rheumatism and arthritis etc. In another words one of the benefits of drinking water is that it can improve your immune system.

Lose weight: Drinking water helps you lose weight because it flushes down the byproducts of fat breakdown. Drinking water reduces hunger; it's an effective appetite suppressant so you'll eat less. Plus, water has zero calories.

Relieves Fatigue: Water is used by the body to help flush out toxins and waste products from the body. If your body lacks water, your heart, for instance, needs to work harder to pump out the oxygenated blood to all cells, so are the rest of the vital organs, your organs will be exhausted and so will you.

Natural Remedy for Headache: Helps to relieve headache and back pains due to dehydration. Although many reasons contribute to headache, dehydration is the common one.

Good Mood: Your body feels very good and that's why you feel happy.

Look Younger with Healthier Skin: You'll look younger when your skin is properly hydrated. Water helps to replenish skin tissues, moisturizes skin and increases skin elasticity.

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Reduce the Risk of Cancer: Related to the digestive system, some studies show that drinking a healthy amount of water

may reduce the risks of bladder cancer and colon cancer. Water dilutes the concentration of cancer-causing agents in the urine and shortens the time in which they are in contact with bladder lining.

Every cell in your body needs water from head to toe. That is why it is so important to drink enough fluid. Take for example, brain consists of 90% of water, if you do not supply enough water to your body, your brain cannot function well, and you will get headache or migraine. Hence, next time, if you feel fatigue and headache, it may be the sign of dehydration.

HARMFUL EFFECTS OF DEHYDRATION Tiredness Migraine Constipation Muscle cramps Irregular blood pressure Kidney problems Dry skin 20% dehydrated Risk of death Water is an important part of your daily body functions, so it is important to continually replenish it. Each day, your body loses 2-3 quarts of water through sweat, urination, excretion and breathing.

The body loses even more water if you exercise, live in hot or dry climates, consume high fiber diets, and consume caffeine or alcohol. It is recommended to drink 8-10 cups of fluid a day, adding more water if any of the previously stated situations apply.

SMARTMARK

Lagos: The Palms Mall, Ogunsanya Mall, E-Centre, Fast Forward Allen Avenue.

Silverbird Galleria VI, Ikeja City Mall, Port Harcourt: Genesis Mall, Fast Forward Aba Rd. Abuja: Ceddi Plaza, Kano: Country Mall. Ghana: Accra Mall. Enquires +234 800 100 0000.

OBAMA INAUGURATION

Against All Odds, OB F

or black people dwelling in America to the far stretches of the earth, the second term inauguration of Barack Obama has not only reinforced and enlivened the dreams of their forebears who were victims of organized slave trade and discriminations of their day, but it is a victory to be savoured and worn as a badge of honour in respect of the race of people that was described for ages as a cursed race and an off scouring of the earth despite their invaluable and meaningful contributions to civilization and societal growth. For sure, if the dead can see the world of the living and speak their mind, Martin Luther King Jr would say: “It was worth the struggle and the fight�, and Abraham Lincoln would probably thank God for the black race.

The inaugural events commencing the second tenure of Barack Obama which held in Washington, D.C. from January 19 to 21, 2013 were not only packed with glitz and glamour, they were a celebration of the rich democratic ideals

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of a nation and a witnessing of recommitment to the American Dream.

The events kick started with the national day of community service (Martin Luther King, Jr. Day celebration), kids Inaugural Concert, the swearing-in ceremony and parade along the Pennsylvania Avenue, luncheon and the C-in-C Inaugural Ball.

The first event was the Kids' Inaugural Concert which featured performances

by Katy Perry, Usher, Mindless Behavior and Fun. The star-studded party, thrown for hundreds of Washington DC-area children was attended by first lady Michelle Obama, who hosted the event along with Jill Biden, wife of the Vice President; the Obama ladies: Malia and Sasha and host of other dignitaries. Malia and Sasha Obama stole the occasion with their flair for fashion in a set of adorable ensembles. Malia, 14, feted the event in a mint green sweater tucked in to a full blue skirt. Her knotted belt, red ribbed tights and slouchy black ankle boots

Obama delivers a historic and emotional speech:

AMA Soars added extra touches of cool. Little Sasha, 11, was just as cute in brown knee-high boots, a purple-and-pink dot cardigan and black-and-white skirt.

sister suede polka plaid

The official second inauguration of Barack Obama took place in a private swearing-in ceremony on Sunday, January 20, 2013 in the Blue Room of the White House while the official swearing-in of Vice President Biden took place on the same date at the Naval Observatory, his official residence. Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath to the president and Associate Justice Sonia Sotomayor administered the oath to the vice president.

According to the records, and as mandated by the Twentieth Amendment to the United States Constitution, all presidents inaugurated since October 1933 begin their term on January 20 at noon. However, because January 20, 2013, fell on a Sunday, a public ceremony marking the occasion, which was attended by close to a million people and watched by millions around the world, took place on Monday, January 21,

Barack and Michelle Obama wave as they walk down Pennsylvania Avenue during the Parade

2013 at the United States Capitol building with another oath-taking.

It is note-worthy that the Sunday inauguration marked the official beginning of the second term of Barack Obama as President and Joe Biden as Vice President. The next inauguration day that will fall on a Sunday January 20, will be in 2041.

For now, Obama remains the only president of America with four oath-takings in two terms. This was due to the whims and caprices of calendar and Obama's mistake in his first inauguration. It will be recalled that in his swearing-in of January 20th, 2008 he made an error which necessitated a fresh oath-taking, though private, on the 21st January, 2008.

Again, in 2013, the official oath-taking fell on a Sunday

.The two men are the only living Democrats who have occupied the White House. Clinton was accompanied by his wife, Secretary of State Hillary Rodham Clinton, who is departing as Obama's second term gets under way. Former first lady Rosalynn Carter accompanied her husband for the ceremonies at the Capitol's West front.

Neither former President George W. Bush nor his father, former President George H.W. Bush, were expected to attend. Both are Republicans.

Notable dignitaries at the ceremony were former presidents Bill Clinton and Jimmy Carter who were joined by lawmakers and other dignitaries at the Capitol Joe Biden & wife Dr Jill wave as they walk down Pennsylvania Avenue during the Inaugural parade

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OBAMA INAUGURATION

Obama’s official Swearing-in on Sunday

The President & First Lady ride in the presidential limousine

The Obamas & Rev. Luis Leon

Miami University Marching Band, Ohio, walks past the presidential box & the White House

The inauguration theme was "Faith in America's Future", a phrase that draws upon the 150th anniversary of President Abraham Lincoln's Emancipation Proclamation and the completion of the Capitol dome in 1863. The ceremony opened with the playing of pre-recorded music and a live performances of the Fifth-grade chorus from Public School 22, followed by "The President's Own" United States Marine Band. Senator Charles Schumer, chair of the Joint Congressional Committee on Inaugural Ceremonies, acted as the day's Master of Ceremonies.

Myrlie Evers-Williams, widow of slain civil-rights leader Medgar Evers, delivered the invocation, followed by a performance of "The Battle Hymn of the Republic" by the Brooklyn Tabernacle Choir.

After the performance of "America the Beautiful"

by James Taylor, Chief Justice John Roberts administered the oath of office to President-elect Barack Obama. After he completed the oath of office as the President, Obama received in his honour the 21-gun salute, and the first playing of four ruffles and flourishes and the march "Hail to the Chief" by members of the armed forces.

Obama used bibles owned by American civil itol rights leader Martin Luther King Jnr and (centre), review the troops at the Cap n ingto Linn .

Gen Maj. with Jill & Obama, Michelle, Joe President Abraham Lincoln for the oath taking.

Thereafter, he delivered his inaugural address which had a length of 2,137 words and spanned 18.5 minutes. In a speech "heavy on broad rhetoric and light on policy specifics" as noted by the Washington Post, Obama delved in broad strokes into the United States past and its future as he called on ordinary Americans to

Obama arrives in smiles at St. John's Church in Washington

Biden arrives at St. John's Church

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Vice President Joe Biden takes Oath as wife Jill holds the Bible

President Obama takes Oath of Office with two Bibles held by wife Michelle

“shape the debates of our time.” Rejecting the belief that in America "freedom is reserved for the lucky, or happiness for the few" and arguing that “preserving our individual freedoms ultimately requires collective action” Obama said "now decisions are upon us, and we cannot afford delay. We cannot mistake absolutism for principle or substitute spectacle for politics or treat name-calling as reasoned debate. We must act.”

President Obama also spoke firmly about climate change, immigration reform, and gun control, and argued that they represented important issues for this generation to solve. Noting that "none can avoid the devastating impact of raging fires and crippling drought and more powerful storms” Obama stated that his administration “will respond to the threat of climate change, knowing that the failure to do so would betray our children and future generations.” He also argued that America must lead in this area: "The path towards sustainable energy sources will be long and sometimes difficult. But America cannot resist this transition; we must lead it. We cannot cede to other nations the technology that will power new jobs and new industries we must claim its promise." "That is how we will preserve our planet, commanded to our care by God." Obama commented on the role of government that "Progress does not compel us to settle centuries-long debates about the role of government for all time but it does require us to act in our time."And he added while the American people never gave up their skepticism of a strong federal government, they also never believed that the government can fix all ills. In order to prepare America for a rapidly changing world U.S. President Barack Obama stressed the need for the political leaders of America to act in common cause. The president argued that "now decisions are upon us and we cannot afford delay.”

Secretary of State, Hillary Clinton & husband, former President Bill Clinton

Defense Secretary Leon Panetta & Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood

An elated history maker - President Obama

President Obama signs a proclamation to commemorate the inauguration, flanked by Biden & John Boehner

Chief Justice of the Supreme Court John Roberts (C) arrives Former President Jimmy Carter & wife, Rosalynn

Obama’s daughter Malia congratulates him as Michelle and Sasha look on

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OBAMA INAUGURATION

Beyonce performs the National Anthem at the inauguration

Kelly Clarkson performs

The presidential speech was followed by a performance by vocalist Kelly Clarkson, who sang "My Country, 'Tis of Thee". While Rev. Luis Leon delivered the benediction, Vocalist Beyoncé Knowles concluded the ceremony with a performance of the United States national anthem, "The Star-Spangled Banner".

James Taylor performs at the ceremonial swearing-in The inaugural parad e

After a bruising campaign, and unusually contentious post-election period, President Obama savored his second and final Inauguration Day as a brief respite from Michelle’s brother & mother, Craig political storms and celebratory moment for Robinson & Marian Robinson his hundreds of thousands of adoring supporters. As he walked off the inaugural platform on the west front of the U.S. Capitol, Obama turned and paused to look out at the crowd on the National Mall, even as his family and other guests continued ahead without him.“I want to take a look one more time,” Obama was heard saying. “I'm not going to see this again.”

Singers John Mayer and Katy Perry

Catherine Anderson & others beam with excitement

After the presidency of Obama, probably it may take a long time for a black man to sit in the Oval Office of the White House as the number one citizen of United State of America. ...still the Inaugura l parade However, the milestone presidency of Obama will forever be remembered for a number of things: for a black man who through the integrity of his heart presides over the most powerful nation in the world after centuries of struggle and dream of the black race to gain global relevance and redeem their discrimination and slavery-battered self esteem; for the unparallel intellectual prowess and oratorical finesse of a president who lead America in a time when global economy meltdown and environmental hazards ravage his beloved country ;for the many tough social issues that seek to overthrow established ideals and stereotypes and for the successful fight against terrorism.

Members of the Marine Corps Today, Barack Hussein Obama does not only stand out as a role model for the blacks worldover, but interestingly, like an Eagle, he continually soars in the face of daunting challenges.

The Mammoth crowd at the 57th Presidential Inauguration on January 21, 2013

The South Shore Drill Team of Chicago performs

Edward Franklin & daughter, Kennedi

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Former Republican presidential candidate Newt Gingrich & wife Callista

Senator John Kerry gives a thumbs-up gesture as he arrives at the Capitol building

U.S. Army Chief of Staff, Gen. Raymond Odierno Chicago Mayor, Rahm Emanuel & wife, Amy

Sen. John McCain, & Sen. Dianne Feinstein, D-Calif

Rev. Jesse Jackson

Eva on arrival (Actress) Singer Kelly Clarkson & Brandon Blackstock BeyoncĂŠ & husband Jay-Z

AT THE COMMANDER-IN-CHIEF INAUGURAL BALL

Joe and Jill Biden enjoy their dance President Barack Obama on the dances floor with Michelle

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Pix by: Fotogenesis

MILESTONE

BARR. MINABELEM MICHAEL WEST, mni ‌Celebrates 50th Birthday in Grand Style

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he number 50 is a special number. In Hebrew and Greek mythologies, it represents wisdom, maturity and freedom. On 22nd April, Barrister Minabelem Michael West, fondly called MM, attained this number in age, and relations and friends celebrates the Golden Jubilee of this man of style and class whom many see as God's gift to planet earth.

The celebration started on that day with an Evening of Praise, organized in the quintessential MM style during which some Christian choral groups did some spirit-lifting renditions to glorify God. Thereafter, on Saturday 27th April, there was a well-attended Special Thanksgiving Service at Bethel Anglican Church, Amadi-Ama, Port Harcourt, where family members, friends and associates from far and near turned up in their numbers to share in his moment of joy. Later in the evening of that Saturday, the celebrant's friends led by The Esthers oraganized a very classy never-seenin-a-long-time Dinner and Ball for him in the new and cozy Asia Town, in the heart of Port Harcourt, where good food and good wine over-flowed. At the occasion attended by top dignitaries and compered by ace actor and comedian Basorge Tariah, Celebrant and his wife, children and friends danced their hearts out in convivial indulgence to the beautiful music of Frank Edwards and lady IB. Incidentally, that Saturday was the birthday of Lilian, the celebrant's first daughter, who also cut a birthday cake.

Barr. & Mrs. Michael West

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Humble and humane, simple and calm, an urbane charm, this debonair Kalabari-born gentleman is discerning in his art, his profession, his passion, his convictions and values. An accomplished lawyer and bureaucrat, MM graduated as a lawyer in 1987 and was called to the Nigerian Bar in 1989. He was, at different times, an Associate Solicitor at F.G. Peters & Co., Chief State Counsel in the Rivers State Ministry of Justice, a Director and Parliamentary Secretary in the Rivers State House of Assembly and Special Assistant to the Governor of Rivers State, before his present appointment as Permanent Secretary. For a number of years he served as Secretary to the Conference of Speakers of State Legislatures of Nigeria headquartered in Abuja and was a Faculty Member of the Legislative Strengthening Programme of the Mississippi Consortium for international Development (MCID), USA. Well grounded on parliamentary matters, he is a Honourary member of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA).

In his official capacity, he serves as Member, Governing Council, of the Rivers State University of Science and Technology, Port Harcourt; Bori Polytechnic and Rivers State College of Arts and Science, Rumuola, Port Harcourt; and Member, Rivers State Primary Health Care Management Board.

MM is widely travelled and has attended several training and capacity building programmes locally and overseas, including the Royal institute of Public Administration, London, and the Centre for Legislative Drafting, New Orleans, USA. He also attended the Nigerian Institute of Advanced Legal Studies, Lagos. A member of the Nigerian Bar Association, International Bar

Barr. & Mrs. Michael West Association and the Nigerian Institute of Management, he is a recipient of many honours and awards. He was a participant of Senior Executive Course 34 of the National Institute for Policy and Strategic Studies, (NIPPSS), Kuru, Jos, culminating in the award of Member of the National Institute (mni).

Asked about his greatest blessing from God, he pointed to his wife, Honourable Mrs. Joeba West (Rivers State Commissioner for Women Affairs), and children: Mrs. Lilian Franklin (a lawyer and LL.M student at University of Dundee, Scotland); Mike (Economics student at American University of Nigeria, Yola); Bobby (Engineering student at University of Hull, England); Phebe and Bobo (both in secondary school). He also has two Pretty grand-children: Abigail and Solate. A family man to the core, MM paid glowing tribute to his wife whom he simply described as “Wonderful…a very special gift from God.” Indeed, Great is God's Faithfulness to MM. Born into a humble family in Buguma, Asari-Toru Local Government Area of Rivers State, MM believes that the greatest service to God is the service rendered to humanity - an aphorism that daily guides his life. Thus, drawing inspiration from his benefactor, Elder Eddie Dakoru, whose scholarship enabled him to complete his tertiary education, MM and his beloved wife recently cofounded the Divine Foundation for Education and Empowerment International, a charity registered mainly to assist the less privileged to fulfill their educational dreams through scholarships. The high point of the event was the launching of the Foundation. As usual XCEL was there to bring you the sights

The Wests & the Godwins join the Franklins in Cutting Lilian’s Cake

Lilian cutting her Birthday Cake, supported by her husband

Mrs. West with Daughter, Barr. (Mrs) Lilian Franklin

Presentation from Commissioner and Staff of Ministry of Finance Hon. Dakoru unveilng DIFEE-I during the official launching XL

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MILESTONE

Prayer for the Wests

The Wests with Members of AANI (National Institute) Kuru

Mina, Deinye, Tumini & Ibiba (IB)

Barr. & Mrs West with Owame Kobiri

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...With ASALGA Women Politicians

Barr. West taking the Bible Reading during the Thanksgiving

Atonye & Abasiama

Barr. & Mrs West with family

...With The Esthers

Chairman of Divine Project, Chief Fred Horsfall congratulates Barr. West

Mr. & Mrs Franklin & Bobby Michael West

Bobo & Phebe

Dame Daba Isokrari, the Wests & Fyne Erekosima

IB Omotosho, Mrs West & Atonye Alagoa

Inaiba & Perez

Dr. Tammy Danagogo (Comm. Urban Development) & Hon Ben Horsfall (RVHA.)

Some members, Board of Trustees of DIFEE-I

The Wests with members of Buguma Unique

The Wests with Divine Project members

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SOCIETY MILESTONE

Barr. West with O.C.J Okocha (SAN) & wife

Hon. O. E Dakoru

The Wests with Isobo Jack

Barr. West with Barr. Anozie Obi (mni)

Sen. (Dr.) West & wife

Barr. Chuma Chinye (Comm. Commerce & Industry) & wife

Fubara Imangs, Tonye Abere & Celebrant

Sir Ngo Martyns-Yellowe, Mrs West & Chief West with Wife

The Wests & members of AANI (National Institute) The Wests, the Franklins & Mrs Aja Nwachukwu & friend

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SOCIETY

The Esthers

Chief J.J William-West, Chairman DIFEE-I

Mrs William-West & Hilda Dokubo

Major Gen. Shina Ogunbiyi (mni) & wife

Arc. Johnson Tende & wife

Toast to the Celebrant

The Wests, the Godwins & the Franklins

MC, Basorge Tariah dancing with the Esthers

Sandra dancing with Bobo

The Franklins & friends Dancing Time XL

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MILESTONE

Mrs. West with Barr. & Mrs Rufus Godwins (Solictors Gen.& Perm. Sec. Min. of Justice)

Mrs. West with Aleruchi Cookey-Gam (Adiniminstrator, GPHDA)

Mrs West with Mr. Adeleke (mni), Navy Capt. Eluwa (mni) & Brig. Gen. Hammakim (mni)

Mrs West with Aides & Sir Alawari Ndu

Mrs West with Tonye Abere

Mrs West with the Amachrees & Dienyes

Iniro Wills, Mrs West & Lady IB

Mrs West & the Harrys

Mrs West & friends

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The Esthers

Kayode Omotosho (r) & friend

Belema Mangibo (r) (Permanent Sec., Women Affairs)

Mrs. West & Sandra

Lilian, Mike & Kelechi

Air Commodore Garuba & Barr. (Mrs) Oyibo Ahaneku-Nwaneri

Awoere & Kuroma

Hon Briggs & Dr. Chamberlain Peterside (Rivers State Comm. for Finance)

Mrs. Lilian Franklin with little sister, Phebe

Bobo, Onengs, Bobby & Mike

The Wests with Board Members of DIFEE -I

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MILESTONE

Otoks, Olobo, Fenny & Owus

Navy Captain Ebe (mni) & Mrs Queensley Seghosime, mni (Director FIRS)

Mrs Uloma Chukueke (r) & friend

Lilian & Sandra

R/S SSG, George Feyii & some State EXCO members

Pastor Christopher Briggs (mni), Mr. Sovens Okari (...all Permanant Sec.)

Nimi, Deinbo, Chamberlain, Pat & Asembo

The Esthers

Basorge Tariah with Lilian

Mrs. Franklin & Leah Oghens Sanomi with Hon & Mrs Augustine Wokocha Friends of the Wests

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Mrs West with Alice (R/S Comm. Education) & Onyeka

Brig. Gen. Aguguo (mni) & a guest

Mr. West with Zenith Bank Staff

Elder Onengiye Amachree & Dr. SMO Amachree

The Dazzling Esthers

The Wests with friends

Members of Board of the Divine Foundation

Francisca, Isaac, Mina, Mabel & the Wests

Frank Edward performs Lady IB & her Band performing

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Taming the Monster of Violence Against Women

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n spite of the wonders of h u m a n

By Tiffany Oguns mental ability as evidenced in the breathtaking scientific and technological inventions and innovations by which man has controlled and subdued the most part of the known world, man has continually failed to chart an effective means of taming the ugly monster of violence against women which festers like wild fire across continents of the world. There are many a million voices of women unheard across the globe, crying for help as a result of violence against women and other sorts of abuse.

at the right time. These are the people I am speaking out for. Those women who never had the privilege of having an education, the ones given out at an early age in marriage THESE ARE THE ONES WITHOUT A VOICE AND WHOSE VOICES NEED TO BE HEARD. It is estimated that of Nigeria's population, 64 per cent is mainly rural and 44 per cent urban and of this, 54 per cent live below the poverty line. These are the ones I am speaking for in this article.

The staggering statistics of violence against us worldwide is alarming and very disturbing. Borrowing from Golda Olanrewaju’s article published in the Champion Newspaper of February 5th April, 2013, “according to a report released by United Nations of recent, globally, 603 million women live in countries where domestic violence is not yet considered a crime. Up to 70 percent of women report having experienced physical and/or sexual violence at some point. Over 60 million girls worldwide are child brides married before 18. Up to 50 per cent of sexual assaults are committed against girls under the age of 16. In an article by advocate for youth.org, it was recorded that violence against women is a widespread problem in sub-Saharan Africa. Surveys conducted in sub-Saharan Africa reveal that 46 percent of Ugandan women, 60 percent of Tanzanian women, 42 percent of Kenyan women, and 40 percent of Zambian women report regular physical abuse.

My intention is not to trigger a Women's Liberation Movement in Nigeria, my goal is to make us aware of issues related to women, address them and find solutions to them. Let

In a Nigerian survey, 81 percent of married women report being verbally or physically abused by their husbands. Forty-six percent report being abused in the presence of their children. Nigeria was ranked 110 out of about 135 countries in the 2012 Gender Gap index, (the Gender Gap Index was developed in 2006 by the World Economic Forum to capture the magnitude and scope of gender based disparities around the world).”

Also, according to TrustLaw.com, a website site for free legal service ,information and news on good governance and women's right, “...in every 6 hours in South Africa, a woman is killed by an intimate partner. Though the exact number of women and girls raped in eastern Democratic Republic of Congo is unknown, the country has been named the rape capital of the world”.

Again, back to Golda Olanrewaju’s article, “It's very easy for a person to assume these things are not happening in his or her immediate environment, but all we have to do is watch our Nigerian movies and we would see how this is portrayed and indirectly celebrated. Any form of violence against women and girls should not be encouraged at all whether in the form of humour or making some quick money. My cry is neither for my sisters living in Lagos, or any of the urban areas, rather it is for those women who live in the rural areas. Growing up in Nigeria, I personally witnessed domestic violence and abuse amongst the women and girls. It was a common experience to hear very early in the morning women crying out from being hit by their husbands for a simple offence like not having his bathing water in the bathroom or not having his food ready

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skills should be introduced. We can take advantage of our culture. Nigeria has a communal culture, let's get our elders involved, involve and engage traditional leaders, men and boys in violence against women and girls prevention initiatives.

We can promote awareness and sensitization training. Train our police, military, judicial, religious, cultural and communal leaders on women rights. Violence has a significant impact on the health and life expectancy of women. The World Bank estimates that rape and domestic abuse account for 5 per cent of healthy years of life to women of reproductive age in developing countries.

Children in abusive households also suffer from the effects of domestic violence, whether they were physically abused or not.

Studies show that children who witness domestic violence may experience and exhibit emotional and behavioral problems such as depression, aggression, disobedience, poor school performance and also continue in the same pattern of abuse.

us empower our women at the grassroots level so that they would know that any act of violence against them is wrong! We need to develop programmes aimed and targeted towards improving women's standard of living. Education is a major key. Educate a woman and you've educated a nation. It is a cycle with a ripple effect. There should be a reform aimed at overhauling our educational system. Education should not be a luxury rather a necessity.

Women account for half of any country's potential base and a nation's competitiveness in the long term depends significantly on whether and how it educates its women. In high-income settings, let's incorporate school-based programmes to prevent relationship violence among young people (or dating violence). In low-income settings, gender equality training and community-based initiatives that address gender inequality and communication and relationship

Lastly, our entertainment industry (NOLLYWOOD) needs to stop propagating films that celebrate violence of any form on women. Our mothers, sisters, aunts should be celebrated in a positive manner and not negatively. Our goal and objective should be targeted at enabling positive cultural practices of respect and nonviolent relationships in families, schools, community and public institutions. Ending violence against women and girls is not an option rather a priority, our goal is to propagate a zero tolerance to it and END IT.” Judging by the revelation in the article by Golda Olanrewaju ,it is clear that we have the responsibility to secure the future for tomorrow's princesses, mothers, wives, and girls.

The time is NOW or never. The better society that we all crave for, starts with entrenching a culture of dignity for the girl-child and all categories of women among us. Speak up and never keep silent in face of injustice against the girl-child. Blow the whistle against the dehumanization of womanhood, and shout it on the roof top when you sight a mother and wife being reduced to a punching bag.

If we keep silent, we endorse this evil and we must be ready to face the damning consequences.

MILESTONE

Omehia Joins League of Eminent Africans …Receives African Achievers Award

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hile there are leaders who sing their praises, there are few whose noble feats are sung by others. It was a celebration of excellence, quality leadership and rd impact on the 23 of February, 2013 in the Conference Hall of Hilton Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya as organizers of Africa Achievers Awards honoured some distinguished Nigerians among other Africans, who have contributed to the growth and development of Africa in recent years with its treasured awards. Notable Nigerians among the recipients and their awards are: Dr. Rilwanu Lukman, fmr Petroleum Minister and ex-Secretary General of Organization of Petroleum Exporting Countries(OPEC) honoured with Life Time Achievement Award; Their Excellencies: Deputy Speaker, House of Reps., Hon. Emeka Ihedioha and Sir Celestine Omehia, former Governor of Rivers State, individually received the Award for Excellence in Public Office; First lady of Benue State , Yemisi Dooshima Suswam received Award for Women and Youth

Development and former EFCC boss, Nuhu Ribadu honoured with Anti-Corruption Icon Award of the Year. Some distinguished Africans that were honoured include Dr Ken Kwaku of Tanzania, Award for Excellence in International Corporate Governance; Anas AremeyawAljazeera (Ghana) -Journalist of the Year; Abdikadir Aden Hassan (Kenya) -African Young Achiever; Late Prof Atta Mills of Ghana, Posthumous Award for Excellence in Leadership in Africa and others.

The award, according to Nigerian receivers would be a catalyst that will spur them to contribute more to the development of our rich country and the continent in general. For Rilwanu Lukman, the award was a way of saying “thank you'' after years of outstanding service to Nigeria on the global platform. The award ,on the part of Emeka Ihedioha, conveys a message for him to continue the dogged and selfless fight against irresponsibility in leadership and corruption in Nigeria on the floor of the House.

As a performer, Yemisi Suswam has more than ever been prodded to carry women and youth development to a greater height. For Sir Celestine Omehia, it is amazing that the award came long after leaving public office. According to the organizers, he was honoured with the prestigious African Achievers Award for his exceptional and laudable initiative of pioneering the “Carrot and Stick Model'' on Amnesty and Rehabilitation of repentant militants in the once volatile oil-rich Rivers State. His Excellency's pragmatic approach to tackling militancy in the state not only brought about the cooperation of the aggrieved youths and their eventual rehabilitation, but the initiative stirred the imagination of Nigerians home and abroad. It was his amnesty initiative that inspired the Federal Government Amnesty Programme in the Niger Delta Region which has recorded tremendous success.

The African Achiever Awards is a prestigious award that is highly coveted and respected

Dr. Rilwanu Lukman present award to Rt. Hon. Emeka Ihedioha His Excellency, Celestine Omehia & Dr. Rilwanu Lukman XL

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MILESTONE across the continent. In the words of the organizers of the event, the award is geared towards “recognizing excellent individuals and organizations that has contributed immensely to the advancement of the developmental sector of the African continent�. Receivers of the award in the past include anti-apartheid fighterDesmond Tutu who received the award in recognition of his fight for human right, justice and peace; Rt. Hon. Joyce Banda, former president of Malawi for her excellence in

leadership; Governor Babatunde Raji Fashola of Lagos State, honoured in recognition of his giant stride in leadership and governance and a list of others.

The event which was compered by Nollywood Actor, Bob Manuel-Odukwu and BBC broadcaster, Savannah Nightingale, attracted people from the length and breadth of Africa.

The event witnessed a rich display of the aesthetic and cultural beauty of Kenya. Cheers

and smiles lit up the hall as the profile of each of the recipients were read and were called up to receive their awards.

After the award ceremony, the Nigerian High Commission in Kanya hosted all Nigerian recipients and their guests to a luncheon at the Nigerian House on Saturday, 24th February, 2013. It was a befitting reception as guests were treated to a special Nigerian culinary experience as everybody ate and drank to his satisfaction.

A cross-section of dignitaries

Dr. Rilwanu Lukman congratulates Her Excellency, Yemisi Suswam

Her Excellency, Yemisi Suswam after receiving her award

A Zimbawian Minister receives an Award

Africa Woman of the Year (r)

Bob Manuel-Odukwu & Savannah Nightingale

A cross-section of recipients

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Dr. Lukman & others with Positive Runway Models creating awareness for HIV/AIDS pandemic

AT THE NIGERIA HIGH COMMISSION IN KENYA

Dr. Rilwanu Lukman & His Excellency, Celestine Omehia

Their Excellencies, Janet Oyateru (wife of the Ambassador) & Yemisi suswam

Their Excellencies, Sir. Celestine Omehia & Yemisi suswam

His Excellency, Celestine Omehia & XCEL Publisher, Barth Emuekpere

George Agim, Francis Okoh, Her Excellency, Yemisi suswam & Dr. Lukman

Mrs. Agim & Amb. Segun Akpata

Their Excellencies, Amb. Janet Oyateru, Amb. Shegun Akpata & Sir. Celestine Omehia

His Excellencies, Sir. Celestine Omehia & Rex

A cross-section of some High Commission staff

Bob Manuel-Odukwu & Savannah Nightingale

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EMMANUEL AMEH

Moving Up The Ladder

adoyimotivation@yahoo.com

frustrations.

There is nothing of value that does not have a price. Jesus painted a graphic picture of training in Luke 13. In that parable, we understand that he planted a fig tree in His vineyard. Then He came and sought fruit on it and found none. So He said to the dresser of the vineyard, “…. Behold, these three years I come seeking fruit on this fig tree, and find none: cut it down; why cumbereth it the ground? And he answering said unto him, Lord, let it alone this year also, till I shall dig about it, and dung it:”

SUCCESS IS AN INSIDE JOB ...There's Something In You! I t is not the user of an equipment that determines its purpose, but the manufacturer. For instance, I use a microphone to teach in church, and cannot change the manufacturer's purpose for it. I cannot use it to write. In fact, any other purpose to which I want to put it outside that of the manufacturer's will make it an equipment of no value. Success or profitability therefore, is in lining up with the manufacturer's purpose. That is why I would like to say that endowment is the gateway to accomplishment.

At creation, certain things were deposited in you to make you a profitable person on earth.

Think about this: most basketball stars are of extraordinary height. That height is not a personal achievement, but an endowment by nature, which the basketball star is only trading. That is also true of runners; all the cells of their body are “runner's cells”.Except you are 'wired up' for the things you are doing, you will not find fulfillment; you will not get results, because you are not created for that assignment.

In 2 kings 4:1 7, there was a woman whose husband had died and left such a huge debt that his creditors came to take his two sons away. Now, that man was a prophet so poverty has no respect for titles! You can be called anything and yet be indebted.

However, when that woman went to Elisha the prophet for help, he said to her, “what hast thou in the house?” that means your troubles have a solution within you. There's something inside you that is able to provide answers to the questions you are confronted with.

That widow was at the point of committing suicide because she did not know what she had within. Similarly, many people are at the verge of committing suicide because they do not recognize what is in their 'house'. Friend, there is something inside you that holds the answer to the embarrassment you are facing!

There is a treasure in your being that can terminate the pressures of your life.

LOCATE THAT TREASURE “What hast thou in the house?” And she answered, “Thine hand maid hath not anything in the house!”

Perhaps he said, “Well! Until you know what you have, your children will go into slavery”.

And she quickly added, “….. save a pot of oil”, that pot of oil as ordinary as it appears, held the answer to the embarrassments of her life.

There is a treasure built into your nature, but until you discover it, you may “trash” your destiny without knowing. .

Every creation of God carries a divine treasure inside of him called talents, and they are placed there to make him a profitable citizen of the earth. That endowment is to every man “according to his several abilities”, that is, “to everyone according to the duties assigned to them”. It is therefore time to go on a sincere search for those hidden treasures inside you, so you can make the most of this one opportunity you have to pass through this world.

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Listen to this; life is a game that has no return match! You mess it up, you miss it eternally! There's no coming back. Every appearance of reincarnation is a deception of the devil (Heb. 9:14).

There are people today in the marketing profession who do not have anything marketing in their nature. Nothing is breaking forth because they are not endowed for it. What about some who have gone into politics when there is nothing inside them to handle public leadership? They are neither coherent nor consistent, yet they remain there.

One simple way to know whether you are doing what you are suited for is found in 1 John 5:3, “For this is the love of God, that we keep his commandments: and his commandments are not grievous.” If what you are doing is grievous to you, choking you, pressing you, or tearing you apart, then it is not his commandment. But if it is satisfying you, have a clear scriptural evidence that you are on course with divine endowment.

REFINING YOUR TALENTS As a nation, Nigeria is blessed with oil, but its crude oil. Until crude oil is refined you cannot get 'refined' value for it. Therefore, it is not enough to be talented, you must know what it takes to refine that talent and get full value for it. Talent unrefined is crude. And crude talent will only attract crude value!

Your endowment is the gateway to the world of success, but it is delivered to you raw. You must then know what to do to refine it and get the best value for it.

TRAINING A MUST Training is one way to refine your talent. It could be formal or informal, but it is important if your talent must yield maximum value.

Jesus came as the Son of the Most High, but the Bible says in Luke 2:42 & 46, “And when he was twelve years old, they went up to Jerusalem after the custom of the feast. And it came to pass, that after three days they found him in the temple, sitting in the midst of the doctors, both hearing them, and asking them question”.

Jesus was in the school of Rabbis, and after their lectures they threw questions at Him and His answers were most profound. His spiritual endowment was undergoing a refining process. Understand that Jesus was the pattern Son, the only begotten of the Father, He had great prophecies heralding His birth, and yet, He had to sit down in the midst of the doctors of the law, hearing and asking them questions!

No one ever becomes a proven apostle until he is first a successful disciple. Mark 3:14 says, and he ordained twelve, that they should be with him, and that he might send them forth to preach”. Where must they first be? With Him! After that, He will send them forth to preach. Training is a must if you will not crash your destiny. One bit of information can terminate all your

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Luke 13:7, 8; in other words, training is digging around your talent and applying 'manure' so that it can come up with the required leaves and produce valuable fruits.

Friend, your crude talent will never refine itself! It has to pass through the 'trainery' then the best of it will come out! The opportunity for informal training is all around you. There are unlimited opportunities around you to improve your lot. It is time to begin to order for books, journals, etc. it's time to begin to pay the hard currency of training so that you can live a high life tomorrow.

Please ensure that you give special attention to the divine treasure in you, dig around it, dung it with rich manure until the best of its value comes out. You carry a divine endowment on my inside, and you must give it all it takes. Training will always culminate in triumph when you embrace it with delight!

PATIENCE The next factor that enhances the value of your talent is patience. It is a common saying that Rome was not built in a day. So there is an undeniable place patience occupies in the refining of your talent.

Look at Mark 4:26 29, “And he said, so is the kingdom of God, as if a man should cast seed into the ground; And should sleep, and rise night and day, and the seed should spring and grow up, he knoweth not how. For the earth bringeth forth fruit of herself; first the blade, then the ear, after that the full corn in the ear. But when the fruit is brought forth, immediately he putteth in the sickle, because the harvest is come”. The seed will germinate and produce, it does so in stages.

First the blade, then the ear and the flower and then the full corn. That is a principle of the kingdom of God. In Hebrews 12:1-2, God's word says, “wherefore seeing we also are compassed about with so great a cloud of witnesses, let us lay aside every weight, and the sin which doth so easily beset us, and let us run with patience the race that is set before us, looking unto Jesus the author and finisher of our faith; who for the joy that was set before him endured the cross, despising the shame, and is set down at the right hand of the throne of God”. It takes patience to make the most of life. The talents are there; they are genuine; they have been discovered. But that discovery alone of them does not make you an automatic star, you must subject those talents to the rigours of training, and then you empty patience in your pursuit.