The Lumine News

Author: The Lumine News

  • C’River APC Northern Forum Commends Deputy Governor, Describes Him As A Team Player

    C’River APC Northern Forum Commends Deputy Governor, Describes Him As A Team Player

     

    Ukongikwen Adie

    The Cross River APC Northern Elders’ Forum led by Chief Fidelis Ugbo has commended the State Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey for being a good team player and leader of the north.

    This commendation was made when the Forum paid a solidarity visit to the Deputy Governor recently

    Ugbo, a former Secretary to the State government and leader of the team, commended the deputy governor for his humility, adding that, the sky is not the limit but the starting point in view of his notable feat.

    Ugbo applauded the host for the appointments made so far, as well as the state government’s plan underway to complete the Obudu cargo airport and the revival of the Ranch Resort.

    On his part, Chief Peter Ojie, who spoke on behalf of the Ogoja/Yala Federal Constituency, urged leaders in the various local government areas not to only acknowledge Rt. Hon. Peter Odey as the Deputy Governor, but to also see him more as the leader of Cross River North.

    He assured the Deputy Governor of their support praying that his sojourn in administration will benefit the entire region.

    APC State Chairman, Barr. Alphonsus Eba, recalled that Rt. Hon. Odey had a long history of achievements, but had remained humble despite this.

    He encouraged Odey to continue to cultivate the cordial relationship existing between himself and the Governor while assuring the Deputy Governor of the advisory role and encouragement of the Northern Elders Forum.

    Eba called on the group to support the present administration in the state till the end and not to abandon it halfway.

    Other APC elders and stalwarts from CR North including Ada Bekwarra II, Omang ldiege ,Chief Tony Undiandeye, Gabe Edi, Dr Kate Agba Ajibike, E. J Ekunke and Prof Zana Akpagu, in their respective statements also reiterated their support and followership for Rt. Hon. Peter Odey as the leader of Cross River North, praying that the present administration would end well.

    They maintained that all issues affecting party faithfuls and people from CR North would be resolved.

    Responding, Rt. Hon. Odey appreciated the group for coming together to honor him while assuring them that all the concerns they had raised will be addressed.

    He offered to facilitate a meeting of the Elders’ Forum with His Excellency, Prince Bassey Otu, to enable them thank him for his fatherly roles and the cordial relationship shared by the Governor and Deputy.

    Odey acknowledged the planned reception in his honor while assuring the Forum that when the caucus is formed, everyone would be carried along.

  • C’River Deputy Governor Receives Egbe-Mbube Progressive Union Calabar Branch

    C’River Deputy Governor Receives Egbe-Mbube Progressive Union Calabar Branch

    The Deputy Governor of Cross River State,Rt. Hon. Peter Odey today, the 11th of October, 2023 received in audience the Egbe Mbube Progressive Union, Calabar Branch in his office.

    Speaking during the visit, Rt. Hon. Odey expressed his heartfelt appreciation for the visit while extending to the group an invitation to his residence to enable them interface on issues bothering the community in a relaxed atmosphere.

    Concerning the issues raised by the group such as the abandoned clinic and dilapidated primary school in their region, Odey gave them assurance that the contractors handling the health facility will be contacted to complete the project and that the school will be renovated.

    Earlier, the chairman of the union, Dr. Sunny Ogon said the union has deemed it necessary to come and rejoice with him as their brother over his victory at the polls and to present a few challenges they are faced with back home. Ogon cited the clinic and the primary school in Egbe Mbube which had been abandoned and rapidly dilapidating respectively. He also be reported that the secondary school was understaffed.

    Also present during the visit were Chief Dr. Akpeh Edung, a retired permanent secretary, Professor Jonas Akung, Mr. Thomas Atem a retired director and others who felicitated Rt. Hon. Odey while reiterating the needs of the community and the call for more women inclusion in the scheme of things.

    Highlights of the visit included a presentation of a portrait to the Deputy Governor.

  • Institute of Health Sciences, Research And Administration of Nigeria Awards 4 Honorary Doctorate degrees, Inducts 26 Distinguished Fellows

    Institute of Health Sciences, Research And Administration of Nigeria Awards 4 Honorary Doctorate degrees, Inducts 26 Distinguished Fellows

     

    The Institute of Health Sciences, Research And Administration of Nigeria has inducted 30 Fellows into its fold.

    The induction ceremony which held on the 7th October, 2023 at JOENAGI College of Health Science, Obudu witnessed unprecedented attendance at the event.

    Declaring the event opened, the President and Chairman of the Board of Trustees, Dr Celcus Akomaye welcomed guests and thanked the management of JOENAGI College of Health Science Obudu for granting the approval to use the venue.

    Mr Akomaye said “I would like to thank the Management and Staff of Joeagi College of Health Science Obudu for granting us the approval to use its facilities for this event.

    “Our mission is clear, through our unique programs and platforms, we are dedicated to producing distinguished and innovative multi-skilled professionals. We seek to admit individuals and organizations with proven track records in healthcare, research, administration, and leadership, providing them with educational and professional training/certification.

    “By establishing linkages with a diverse group of professionals and captains of industries, we create openings for business and partnership opportunities for our members. We aim to project and position our members at the center of the global context, facilitating researchers to solve pending problems and make a significant impact on society.
    Our members are the backbone of our institute. They are distinguished healthcare promoters, educators, researchers, managers, administrators, leaders, executives, specialists, business experts, spokespersons, practitioners, consultants, entrepreneurs, politicians, ambassadors, coaches, and excellently proven skilled leaders with global recognition. We are proud to have assembled such a talented and diverse group of individuals who are committed to advancing the fields of health science, research/ education, management, and administration.

    “In addition to membership, the Institute of Health Science, Research, and Administration also offers accredited programs leading to the award of recognized professional and academic certificates, diplomas, and degrees. Through partnerships with both local and international recognized/accredited institutions, we ensure that our programs are flexible, stable, qualitative, and cost considerate, allowing professionals to further their education while maintaining their work commitments.

    “As a professional body, we are dedicated to the advancement of knowledge and the practice of professions. We aim to develop, support, regulate, and promote professional standards for technical and ethical competence. Our focus is not only on the benefit of our professionals, but also on the greater public good. We understand the importance of maintaining a strong reputation for our profession and strive to uphold the highest levels of excellence in all that we do.

    “Today, as we gather here to celebrate the induction and investiture ceremony, we embark on a new chapter in the history of our institute. With the support of our members and stakeholders, we will continue to strive for excellence and make a lasting impact on the fields of health science, research, management, and administration.”

    On his part the keynote speaker, the Director of Education and Training, Dr Ntamu Ekahe-Joseph Abua, stressed on the need for resilience in entrepreneurship and adaptability in today’s rapidly changing world.

    He charged the public to imbibe higher work standard and diversify into other areas as a measure to ameliorate the already bastardized situation in our economy.

    A profile of the Inductees and Awardees during the ceremony is giving below in their categories:

    Distinguished Fellows
    PROF. DJIBRIL NAGUIBOU MOHAMED
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: He holds BSc Biology, Doctor of Pharmacy, MD (Doctor of Medicine in General medicine), MDC (Doctor of Medicine in cardiology) , Msc Pharmacology and PhD in Pharmacology. He’s a professor in Medicine at the University of Parakou and HOD at University of Abomey Carlavi, Benin republic. He’s a cardiologist consultant at CNHU ,and the Vice Chancellor at Good Shepherd University Of Benin.

    Name: PROF. OGAR VICTOR UGBEM
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: He has B.Sc and M.Sc in economics, Postgraduate Diploma in Energy and Environmental Studies, Advance Diploma in Business Management, Diploma in Educational Management, Membership/Registration: Associate Member of the Institute of Corporate Affairs Management of Nigeria and Fellow of Hartford International Business School in Nigeria. The president and Chancellor of African University of Benin – Cotonou in the Republic of Benin and President and Chancellor of African Bilingual University of Togo in Lome, Republic of Togo. Also, the President and founder.-AUB Educational Consult Lagos Nigeria.

    Name: PROF. WIRBA AMENU FOVEN
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: He holds B. Pharm , MBBS , MD , PhD. He is Director of Academic Affairs at King’s college University, Poland; The president and founder and Vice Chancellor of Continental University Institute of Science and Technology, Cameroon; Professor at Faculty of medicine -Pharmacy at NAPISCTECH ,Cameroon and the former Director of School of Medicine and Pharmacy in IUB ,Cameroon.

    Name: PROF. BEST ORDINIOHA
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: Professor of public health and community medicine, Director of school of Public health university of Port-Harcourt.

    Name: IBRAHIM UMAR
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: Director of Education and Developmental Standard; National Primary Health Care Registration Board Of Nigeria. A RCHP of over 20 years, possess excellent communication and listening skills, works extremely well in a team. A renowned workaholic staff of the Community Health Practitioners Registration Board Of Nigeria.

    Name: DANLADI MAKPA JIBRIN
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: He’s a Lecturer /Clinical Instructor; Nasarawa State University Keffi and FAMSAS College of Health Science Technology Keffi, State Chairman Private Clinic Proprietors Association (Community Health Practitioners Wing Nasarawa State), Assist. Secretary Health care providers Association of Nigeria Nasarawa State Chapter, Acting State Chairman Association of Primary Healthcare Tutors of Nigeria Nasarawa State Chapter. Hold the revered position of Madaki-Buh Chiefdom of Buh Chiefdom Traditional Council Wamba LGA Nasarawa State Nigeria. He also had the privilege of Being a Member Staff regularisation and Promotion Nasarawa State Primary Healthcare Development Agency, Member Nasarawa State Ministry of Health Medical Oxygen Technical Working Group. Member CHAI Medical Oxygen steering Committee and Technical Working Group, Member of Nasarawa State University Keffi Department of Community Health Sciences steering Committee, Member Nasarawa State Human Resources for Health.

    Name: DR. IYOHA NERITA EMIKE OGBHEMHE
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: Dr Iyoha has Bachelors in Medicine and Surgery and certificates of in management (NIM) as a chartered manager and in Anesthesia. Also she has Diploma from Modern Montessori International (early childhood educator 2½ – 6 years) and Diploma in Anaesthesia. She has masters in occupation Medicine and is also member of West African College of Surgeon.

    Name: DR. EMMANUEL NWAKAJI ETOR
    Membership Level For Induction: DISTINGUISHED FELLOW
    Brief Profile: Public Health Inspector and a Research Scholar at Highstone Global University, Texas.

    Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Name: HON. BETHEL CHINEGBO ALOZIE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Chairman, Evaron Pharmaceuticals Ltd.

    Name: SIR (BARR) AYANSHISHIE JOSEPH ADIE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: He holds BA(HON) LLB LAW, University of Calabar, CRS; Masters in Urban and Regional Planning (MURP) University of Uyo,Akwa Ibom State; Post Graduate Diploma in Environmental Education (PGDEE), University of Calabar, CRS; Higher National Diploma in Town Planning (HND), Polytechnic, Calabar CRS. He is a member of Nigerian Bar Association (NBA); Nigerian Institute of Town Planners(MNITP) and Town Planners Registration Council Of Nigeria (TOPREG) RTP. He is also Fellow of the Chartered Institute of Corporate Administration of Nigeria.Former Executive Secretary of CRS Land Use and Allocation Committee. In addition, he is Former Crs Director Of Town Planning And Former Director Of Crs Ministry New Cities Development.

    Name: HON, DR. IGBOJIOUN BEKEE. O.
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: He holds Undergraduate and Postgraduate Degrees in various field such as: National Diploma in Public Administration from Akwapoly, Diploma in Photosynthesis/Mass-communication and Higher National Diploma in Public Administration both in Federal Polytechnic Nekede. Diploma in Public Health Administration and Management from Abia State College of Health Science and Management Technology ABA. BSC in Human Resources Management from Federal University of Agriculture Umudike. BSC in Public Health Science from Abia State University Uturu. Is a Public Health Board Member to the Abia State Primary Healthcare development agency (ASPHCDA) Abia. and also a Consultant to the Government of Abia State, Office of the Executive Governor as Special Assistant, Senior Special Assistant and Special Adviser on Public Health respectively.

    Name: INGIO, MARY UTIANGBESHIE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Rm, Rn, Rophthn, B.Sc(Nursing Admin.) Pd( In View) M.Sc(Public Health) In View. Present Position, Director Of Nursing Services, Crs

    Name: MRS THERESA UTIANGWU UKAKA
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: She’s a Double qualified Nurse (sister) Domiciliary Midwifery Services, Deputy PHC – Co-ordinator. Obanliku Local Government Council, CRS, Snr. Lecturer (Nurse Tutor), Abi College of Nursing, Itigidi, Abi CRS, Chief Lecturer, College of Nursing Services Obudu CRS.

    Name: Dr. MUSANGO ANTHONY DENNIS MUKWELLE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: He’s the Ceo/ Medical Director Of Makwalla Health Care Services Ltd Abuja, a clinician of many years experience. Graduated from the university of Calabar with the degree in MBBCH 1995 and a master  of public health from the university Lagos in the 2000. Dr Musango has a PHD in medical quality from the Smart international college from the united kingdom and from the institute of man power and leadership of Nigeria. He has won many scholarships at home and abroad, especially the prestigious scholarship from Johnson and Johnson and the university of California USA and the Ghana institute of management and public administration for Managers in health care in west Africa. Dr Musango has work as a physician in the Norwalk hospital in the UNITED STATES OF AMERICA. He has written many abstracts that gave him full scholarships to present in the following countries:  France, USA, Thailand, China, Italy, Germany, Japan, and many more. Dr Musango is currently the CEO,and Medical Director of MAKWALLA HEALTH CARE SERVICES IN ABUJA. He is a passionate quality assurance professional. Dr Musango is  the director of operations of Nestraklinikal, a collaborative program with the  university of Abuja, for the program quality management system and quality Assurance.He is also a graduate of the Lagos Business school now PAN ATLANTIC UNIVERSITY.

    Name: AFAMEFULE EMEKA HENRY
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: He was Radiographer/Sonographer ,New Hope Hospital Onitsha . Internee Radiographer: Lautech Teaching Hospital Osogbo Osun State, Sonographer. Meridian Hospital, Port Harcourt, Rivers State. Radiographer/Sonographer,St Peters Hospital, Yenagoa Bayelsa State Sonographer.Glory Land Hospital Ovum Yenagoa Bayelsa State, Sonographer Everly Clinic In Yenagoa, Bayelsa State Radiographer, Fmc Yenagoa, Bayelsa State. Presently An Assistant Director Of Radiography Fmc Yenagoa Bayelsa State.

    Name: ASOEGWU MAGNUS EZENWA
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Dr. Ugo is a highly skilled professional who excels in various capacities. Currently, she holds the esteemed position of South-West Zonal Controller for the National Biosafety Management Agency of Nigeria (NBMA), where she has been instrumental in spearheading groundbreaking initiatives. With a background in Biomedical Engineering, Dr. Ugo has made significant contributions to the field, particularly in the areas of medical imaging and speech recognition device inventions. Her expertise extends to scientific research, focusing on Occupational Safety, Health, Safety, and Environment, Biotechnology, Biosafety/Biosecurity, Bioterrorism, and regulatory compliance. In addition to her professional endeavors, Dr. Ugo is the dedicated Lagos State Coordinator of the Women Leadership Institute and Network (WLIN). Under her leadership, she has successfully organized and facilitated empowerment programs for women and girls, providing financial support to widows and those in need. She has also implemented girl child leadership clubs in schools, promoting the development of future female leaders.

    Name: DR UGONNA C. ONYEKWELU
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Dr. Ugo is a highly skilled professional who excels in various capacities. Currently, she holds the esteemed position of South-West Zonal Controller for the National Biosafety Management Agency of Nigeria (NBMA), where she has been instrumental in spearheading groundbreaking initiatives.

    Name: DEACON NTUIOKWA MANYO ATTA
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Cooperative Development Bank (April 13th 2004 – December 5th 2005), First City Monument Bank (December 5th 2005 – March 25th 2007), Zenith Bank PLC (April 3th 2007 – March 25th 2011), First Bank of Nigeria Limited, Calabar Main Branch, Calabar Iman junction Branch, Obudu Branch and Ogoja Branch (April 5th 2011 till Date).

    Name: DR. BEN UDEME MAURICE
    Membership Level For Induction: Honorary Doctorate/Distinguished Fellow
    Brief Profile: Medical Imaging and Radiological Services Practitioner, He had acquired job experience in Foundation for Restoring Women & Child Dignity (FREWOCD), Braithewaithe Memorial Specialist Hospital, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State, Ministry of Defence: Ship House Clinic, Military Hospital Port Harcourt and 13 B.DE Medical Center Calabar From 2012-Till date.

    Doctoral Fellows
    Name: DR. MRS. JEREMIAH ARISTIDE-FLORE
    Membership Level For Induction: Doctoral Fellow
    Brief Profile: She holds a BSc in (Botany ), MSc in (Botany ), MD (Doctor of Medicine) , MPOM (Master of occupation Medicine). She has Affiliations include Fig tree Clinic where she is a Senior medical Doctor and West Africa Union University , Republic of Benin, as a Visiting lecturer.

    Name:. UNIMKE LINUS ABOH
    Membership Level For Induction: Doctoral Fellow
    Brief Profile: Unimke Linus Aboh. Holds: Dip. Purchasing and Supply (KADSPOLY). B. Sc. (Hons) Pub. Admin. (ABU). MPA (M. Sc.) Pub. Admin (JOS). Currently, he is Registrar, JOENAGI College of Health Technology, Obudu. Also, Supervisory Director, Evergreen Hotels, Obudu. He worked as Lecturer cum HOD, Pub Admin Dept., Allover Central Polytechnic, Obudu Campus. Lecturer 1, Dept of Pol Sci., Enugu State College of Education, Obudu Campus. Verification Officer, Cross River State social safety net enrollment project. He is Registrar, JOENAGI College of Health Technology, Obudu. Also, Supervisory Director, Evergreen Hotels, Obudu.

    Name: DR MODUPEOLUWA PEACE DUROTOYE
    Membership Level For Induction: Doctoral Fellow
    Brief Profile: She holds BSc., MSc, and PhD degrees in Biochemistry, Pharmacology and Nutrition Health respectively. She has held positions as a clinical diagnostic assistant, customer care/marketing officer, clinical assistant in a ethomedical organization, biology teacher, Vice principal, regulatory officer, quality control and production manager, feed consultant /researcher, Lecturer/ Head of Department. She also serves as Vice Chairman/ Program coordinator as well as Director; in a NGO and an International Faith-based Organization.

    Research Fellows
    Name: DR. KUFRE EFFIONG ESSIEN
    Membership Level For Induction: Research Fellow
    Brief Profile: QHSE Consultant, CEO / Lead Consultant Safety Master Limited Uyo, AKS

    Fellows
    Name: DR. DORIS ATIBINYE DOTIMI
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: She’s an Associate Professor of Community Health (Department of Community Health Science) and Dean of the Faculty of Health Sciences of Bayelsa Medical University, Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, Nigeria (2021-Date). She is a fellow of the African Institute of Public Health Practitioners (FAIPH), a Fellow of the Institute of Human Resource Development (FHRD), and a Registered Community Health Practitioner (RCHP). She qualified as a Registered Community Health Extension Worker (CHEW) in 1992 and a Community Health Officer in 1997. She holds a Bachelor of Public Health Degree (BPH) from Texila American University, Guyana, 1 Postgraduate Diploma in Public Health from Imo State University, Nigeria, 2 Master Degrees in Public Health and Community Health from Mount Kenya University, Thika, Kenya and University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria respectively. She also holds a doctoral degree (PhD) in Public Health from Walden University, USA. She is currently a member of several academic committees at Bayelsa Medical University, Dean, Faculty Of Health Sciences, Bayelsa Medical University

    Name: DR. OKEM FRED IGBANG
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: National Diploma in Community Medicine, HND in Community Medicine, PGD in Public Health, PGDM, MSc in Health Management, Phd in view.

    Name: DR. DIDIOMA ANTHONY OGHENEVWOGAGA
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: Join the Nigerian Army 1996 as Infantry, Trained as Dental Therapist and Lectured With the Nigerian Army School of Medical Sciences, Masters in Education (M.Ed.)Administration & Planning, Post Graduate Diploma in Education (PGDE) Teacher Education, Bachelor of Technology (B.Tech.) Public Health (Dental Therapy) NOUN. PhD in Educational Administration (in view). Currently lecturing with the Delta State College of Health Science and Technology, Ofuoma.

    Name: ELIZABETH OKOHO ETIM
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: Academic Qualification: B.Sc Anatomy, MSc Population and Reproductive Health, PhD Epidemiology (in view), Oracle Database Administrator (DBA).

    Name: DR. OMOWHARA LUCKY OTEHERI
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: MBBS Obstetrics & Gynaecologiy, Post graduate institute of medicine AcLs BLs CPR PALs Blood bone pathogen mental health and ECG, Diploma in Aesthic medicine IUI lab and clinical Essentials & Genetics Reproduction, Member of the American association of aesthetics medicines, AFRH -Association of fertility & reproductive of health, Indian fertility Society of reproductive health (IFS), Member of the Rotary international, Currently polio plus rep in Delta state. Chief medical director (CMD) Hannahson medical center / foundation /fertility clinic.

    Name: JAMES BARIBAARA PROMISE
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: Adjunct Lecturer (National Teachers Institute (NTI). Capt Elechi Amadi Polytechnic Study Centre and Classroom teacher: Health and Physical Education, Biology and Food & Nutrition (The Royal International Missionary Group of Schools, Port-Harcourt.

    Name: AZI ABRAHAM
    Membership Level For Induction: Fellow
    Brief Profile: Hold a Bachelor’s degree in Physiotherapy from the University of Maiduguri and a Bachelor’s degree in Health and Safety Education from Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Portharcourt Rivers State.

    Full Members
    Name: SISE RACHEAL MBALE
    Membership Level For Induction: Full Member
    Brief Profile: She’s a Primary Health Care Practitioner, with over 10years experience in Practice.

    Other dignitaries at the event include;
    Dr. Ekpanghambah Mojafu-Ekpang (Director, Human Resources IHSRAN), Dr. Ntamu Ekahe-Joseph Abua (Director Of Education & Training IHSRAN), and Mr. Unimke Linus Aboh (Head, Membership & Admission IHSRAN)

    In his closing his remarks, the Vice President of the institute, Associate Prof Gabriel Jeremiah Oruikor, acknowledged efforts made by those who pivoted the success of the event.

  • The Vineyard BY Fr PETER OBELE ABUE

    The Vineyard BY Fr PETER OBELE ABUE

     

    Steward is an old English word for Servant. Stewardship signifies the duties of servants to their Masters. God is our Master, the Landowner who has entrusted responsibilities to us his servants. He has made adequate provisions for us in his VINEYARD and with confidence travelled out of town, reposing total trust in us human beings to turn out the results to him in due season. The question therefore is: what is the result of our stewardship in God’s VINEYARD?

    Every era has had its historical way of responding to God’s call to work in his VINEYARD. For the people in ancient Israel, the men of Judah, the very people he first chose as his own: “he expected justice but found bloodshed, integrity, but only a cry of distress” (Isaiah 5: 7). To the people in Jesus time, it was a sheer bridge of contact. Rather than work in the vineyard and produce results, “the stewards took the messengers and beat one, killed another and stone another. Even when he sent his own son expecting they will respect him”, the scriptures say “But when they saw the son, they said to themselves, ‘this is the heir, come let us kill him and have his inheritance’ and they took him and cast him out of the vineyard and killed him” (Matt 21: 38ff).

    This is the story of our lives. This is the history of our relationship with God who has been so good to us, the God who has been so loving and providential to us, who has been so patient with us, refusing to judge us according to our deeds. Him we have totally treated with reckless abandon as we say in popular language. How is our own age responding to God’s call to work in his VINEYARD? How has our stewardship been? We are talking about the sense responsibility here, the recognition that every privilege we enjoy comes with a price tag. How can we continue to act to God and to our fellow human beings like those farm managers in the gospel story of Matt 21: 33-43?

    We enjoy the benefit that accrue to us but withdraw the benefits that accrue to the land owner. We cheat, we ignore, we loot and we kill and life goes on. No! this cannot be right! Listen to the advice of Paul to the Philippians 4: 8-9: Finally brethren, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is gracious, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things …and the God of peace will be with you.”

  • The Rise Of House-Husbands In Nigeria BY DOMINIC KIDZU

    The Rise Of House-Husbands In Nigeria BY DOMINIC KIDZU

    THE RISE OF HOUSE-HUSBANDS IN NIGERIA

    BY DOMINIC KIDZU

    Interestingly, more husbands in Nigeria are now at home, while their wives are either at work or in the shop. No thanks to the voodoo economy that has put them out of work and denied the avatar his conceit. My son taught me how to bake chicken pie in the oven yesterday, and I was excited to accomplish the task myself. But sour grapes came upon me as I munched the stuff because I realized that I was actually eating humble pie in the hot afternoon..

    Daddy wasn’t the man to be found at home during the day because he was always either at work or on a business trip and everyone came to him for their needs like chicken go home to roost at sunset. Now he is almost always at home with the TV remote control in his hand flipping from one news channel to sports and back again. While the children try very hard to be of good behavior while he is home, even though the very act annoys them quite a bit.

    He no longer goes out in the evenings regularly, and could be heard murmuring to himself from time to time. Something about the price of fuel, garri, or beer, or indeed all of them. He now complains about the volume of music from the children’s room and the number of unwashed plates in the kitchen. His unhappiness is spreading all over the floor like spilled kerosene. “Honey, please help me iron my blouses if light comes in the afternoon” madam cooed, giggling. He grunted as she departs for work.

    The rise of House Husbands is really not a sweet story to tell, because the very telling of it dries saliva in the mouth and leaves the furrowed brow drenched in sweat. About two decades ago, I and my cousin, Prof. John Small went to visit our now late uncle, J. B. C. Atteh Abang in Kuje one hot afternoon. He had just retired as a Director of Forestry. We met him ironing his wife’s clothes, madam was of course at work. He told us that there had been a role reversal in his home, since he had no where to go to, he was now quite happy to do the house chores.

    The big issue with contemporary Nigerian house husbands is that they are neither retired nor tired. Young and energetic men are being confined in their homesteads by unemployment. The ones who are politically exposed are the worse for it. They believe they have worked for the now “elected”, (whatever that means) and should justly be appointed. But the appointment has failed to arrive, keeping them still at home in the afternoon and ultimately adding hermlock to their temperament. Say a little prayer for husbands. They are going through a lot

  • Richard Inoyo Writes Cross River Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, Seeks Personal Intervention

    Richard Inoyo Writes Cross River Governor, Prince Bassey Otu, Seeks Personal Intervention

    A PERSONAL APPEAL TO CROSS RIVER STATE GOVERNOR, PRINCE BASSEY OTU

    By Richard Inoyo

    It has been more than 48hours since my gold color Toyota Camry car with the following details: (Chassis Number 4T1BG22K2V0774308
    Engine Number: 357696264
    Registration Number: HA 107 ABC) was stolen in Calabar and the car as I speak is still at large. It is easy to look the other way when you ain’t the victim suffering this great pain arising from this insecurity that has reached a personal level affecting me directly and the civil organization I work for, Citizens’ Solution Network that serves the underprivileged, and where without mobility we can’t get to interior communities to meet the needs of victims suffering from rights abuse and other social problems that need our intervention.

    I wish to remind the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Prince Bassey Otu who remains the Chief Security Officer of the State in whom my trust lies and my vote in the last election went to, what the theft of my car has had and the level of devastating pain this incidence is still having on me and the negative disruption of my workflow which is vital to underserved communities in the State and the country at scale. I understand that not many will understand and some may probably think it is fine to just keep mute.

    But keeping mute becomes impossible when the pain is rising and the situation hasn’t changed. Please dear Governor, kindly use your good office to intervene, and let my pains go away. Every right and honest thinking person knows you can, and this is the only thing I ask for. Pls I await your goodwill and the extension of your people’s first mantra to me.

    Putting up some over N2million Naira suddenly to secure another car that we were not even supposed to buy at this point only due to this sudden car theft from our civic institution, makes our organisation feels unease.

    Everyone of us at Citizens’ Solution Network would love to appeal and won’t mind if a car from the State Government is donated to our organisation to enable us attend to the mobility vacuum and needs this car theft has created against our organisational workflow.

    Thanks

    Signed

    Richard Inoyo,
    Country Director,
    Citizens’ Solution Network

  • You Own Nothing, You Lose Nothing BY AGBA JALINGO 

    You Own Nothing, You Lose Nothing BY AGBA JALINGO 

     

    If you buy land or buy a house, you have only paid rent for the remaining years you have on Earth. None of them belong to you.

    If you buy a car, you have only paid for your transport for the period the car will last or for the period you will last. It doesn’t belong to you.

    If you marry a spouse, you have only got company until circumstances or death do you part. No one owns the other.

    If you have children, you have only fulfilled the demand of continuity of life until death comes. You don’t own them. That’s why the State still dictates how you bring them up.

    If you have money, you have only amassed value to purchase what you want, for your remaining number of years on Earth. The notes belong to the Central Bank.

    If you work and retire, your pension is only for life. After your life, it stops.

    Even if you eat and get filled, the food in your belly isn’t yours. You must defecate it back to Earth.

    The body itself which you cherish so highly, doesn’t belong to you. The Earth will certainly reclaim its bits, when the loan is due.

    Even the life we live is borrowed, and surely will be returned.

    So let us not be afraid of losing anything in this life, because we do not own anything here. Two things will surely happen; we will either be taken away from everything we think we own or everything we think we own will be taken away from us someday. It is that day that none of us know.

    We boast about our body, our houses, our lands, our money, our wives, our husbands, our children, our parents, our everything. But that’s where it ends. Boasting! Ruminate intensely and it won’t be difficult to find out that, we do not own any of those things. We are only availed of them to mitigate the necessary constraints of our sojourn here.

    So never lose your head or your cool or your temper or your values or your vibrancy, whenever you think you have lost something because nothing was ever really yours. Not even….

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.

  • Betta Edu Meets Rescued Federal University Gusau Students, Assures Them Of FG’s Immediate Humanitarian Assistance

    Betta Edu Meets Rescued Federal University Gusau Students, Assures Them Of FG’s Immediate Humanitarian Assistance

     

    Emotions ran high Thursday when the Minister for Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation, Dr. Betta Edu met with the rescued students of the Federal University Gusau and assured them of improved security and immediate humanitarian response to support their recovery process.

    Dare-devil bandits had recently struck at the University and kidnapped twenty five (25) female students in their hostels. However, sixteen of them have been rescued by security forces.

    Speaking when she took the message of Renewed Hope to the Management and Students of the Federal University of Gusau, in company of the Zamfara State Governor, Dauda Lawal, the Minister said President Ahmed Bola Tinubu was concerned by the unfortunate incident adding that he would ensure the safe return of the remaining students.

    Edu who personally interacted with some of the rescued students one after the other, said both Federal and State government are working together to improve Security in Zamfara State in particular and Northwest in general.

    According to her, “I bring you the assurance of the President, that those remaining students will be back. The President has put in place a security architecture in collaboration with Zamfara State government that will safeguards lives and property.

    She said one of the eight-point agenda of President Tinubu and indeed the primary agenda of government is Security and the welfare of its people.

    “I want to assure you that our children, our students will come back home and get back to school to continue their education.”

    “The President has assured us of improved security across the country to reduce humanitarian crises and eradicate multi-dimensional poverty, we hope that very soon, the remaining nine students in captivity will soon be released.

    “For the students, do not be deterred by the incident and continue to pursue your education, where necessary, we will ensure their full rehabilitation and reintegration to enable them continue their studies. Our President believes in Education, he has made provision for Student Loans and Scholarships to assist the education of young people.

    On his part, Governor Lawal commended Dr. Edu for taking the pains “to visit us over the ugly incident that happened 10 days ago.”

    The Governor assured that the State Government will continue in its efforts to work with the Federal Government to create a conducive learning environment and will also do its best to protect the lives and properties of the people which is the primary function of government.

    Lawal who said Zamfara Needs help from the federal government, said the coming of the Humanitarian Affairs and Poverty Alleviation Minister was an indication of a better collaboration from the federal government led by President Tinubu.

    The Vice Chancellor of the Federal University of Gusau, Professor Muazu Abubakar Gusau, said the management of the university was delighted to receive the Minister at this trying time.

    Professor Gusau, recounted the ordeals the institution has encountered in the hands of bandits in times past even before this administration and called for increased security for the institution.

    The VC appealed to Dr. Edu to factor in the University in her Ministry’s several intervention schemes.

    The institution Student Union Representatives led by Comrade Bello Aliyu, Commended the Minister for visiting them in their trying period, asking that the students should be accommodated in the National Social Investment Programmes of the Federal government. The victims of the incident also met with the Minister who is supporting them directly and will provide for some psychosocial therapy to help with quick recovery and reintegration.

    Rasheed Olanrewaju Zubair (ANIPR), Special Adviser on Media and Publicity to Honourable Minister, MHAPA.
    06/10/2023

  • Gov Otu Assures Of His Administration’s Commitment To Support Any Engagement Targeted At Building The Youths

    Gov Otu Assures Of His Administration’s Commitment To Support Any Engagement Targeted At Building The Youths

    The Governor of Cross River State, Sen. Prince Bassey Edet Otu, has assured the youths of Cross River State of this administration’s commitment to support any engagement targeted at building the youths in the state.

    Senator Otu, who was ably represented by his Deputy Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, made this known at the Hit FM Calabar Entertainment Conference held today at the cultural center complex, Calabar. He commended the CEO of Hit FM Calabar, Mr. Patrick Ugbe and Crew for putting and sustaining the event over the past seven years, noting that entertainment contributes to the socio-economic development of any state especially as it has to do with building the youths of Cross River State.

    According to Rt. Hon Odey, “Anything to do with the people of Cross River State, count us first, because we want the vaccine people of Cross River State to be first”

    While acknowledging the entertainment stars of Cross River State origin present at the event, he started that he is very confident that this conference will birth more stars in the music and movies industry. Therefore the state government will partner with Hit FM for next year’s event because it is evident that Entertainment is an avenue to invest in young people and take them off the streets as well as off criminal activities and engaging them where they will be productive and contribute to the society.

    Welcoming the guest, sponsors, panelists and artists to this year’s event, the Chief executive Officer of Hit FM Calabar, Mr Patrick Ugbe said this is the first time since the event started that there is a formal presence of government. He said it goes to show the commitment and love this administration has towards youth development and indeed, the season of sweetness is upon us.

    The calabar entertainment conference (CEC) is an annual youth engagement event which was undertaken with the believe that the creative industry is the fastest way to get young people out of poverty and crime into gainful engagement. It also aims at growing and developing the entertainment sector in the south -south, thereby making it viable and sustainable for the practitioners.

    Mr. Ugbe noted that the impact has been huge, with an upsurge of entertainment events in Calabar, Cross River State and neighbouring states. He thanked all the sponsors and partners such as the United States consulate General Office in Lagos, Multichoice, Leven Energy, Black house media and a host of others.

  • Feminism Or Westernism BY AGBA JALINGO 

    Feminism Or Westernism BY AGBA JALINGO 

     

    Is Feminism just about advocacy for the assimilation of western female taste or advocacy for women’s rights per culture?

    Whether it is “genderized” or not, as far as the issues of rampant abuse and lack of equal opportunity for women and the girl child is concerned, it is clearly a human right issue. No human being, whether male or female, should be abused or denied any opportunity based on gender or culture. That is encompassing enough for me and should be in the front pew.

    But the flagrant disregard for cultural variations and even personal taste of a section of women, in the pursuit of the broad feminism agenda is plaguing the movement. It appears that the Western feminist band, who also bank roll the advocacy, are more bent on assimilating their own feminist ethos on their playing field, to the isolation of the culturalist women who also desire feminist rights without losing their culture.

    The persistence with which the western feminists present the taste of the western women as the preferred standard for every woman or what should be the ideal standard for every woman, is menacing. This particular hoard of feminists I am addressing are not mindful of the fact that, there are Yoruba women in Nigeria for instance, who want and fight for all the women’s rights but want to preserve their cultural value of women taking a knee to greet elders and men. That there are Igbo women in Nigeria who want and fight for all the women’s rights but still want to teach their female children that it is a wife that should cook for her husband. That there are Hausa women who want and fight all the women’s right but still want to be inside “Kule” and be pampered by their husbands.

    That there are Banyankole women in Uganda who want and fight for all the women’s rights but still want to respect their age long cultural rights to have their aunties taste the sexual agility of their husbands on their marriage eve. That there are Zulu women in Southern Africa, who want and fight for all the women’s rights, but will want to preserve their cultural pride of chasity to flaunt their breasts bare and carry a rid. That there are Muslim women who want and fight for all the women’s rights but still admire and welcome their husbands into marrying four wives as their religion allows. That there are matrilineal Meghalaya women in India, who are in control of their communities and they love and want that system to remain the way it is. That there are tribal feminists around the world who still find it romantic to get their aging husbands a new maiden as their customs allow.

    The insensitivity of the Western feminists to these cultural nuances and their straight line prescription of Western standards as an across-the-counter pill for global women’s rights is something that must be challenged. Why should these hoard try to make it look like, if western styled models are not embraced, it is not feminism? Are they fighting only for women who want to become like women from the Western world or they are fighting for women who want their rights within their cultural freedom? Are they perpetrating foreign culture on other people or they are suffering to liberate women from forces limiting their progress?

    Everyone who believes in humanity and love will not tolerate abuse or injustice, whether it is perpetrated against a male, female, stranger, acquaintance, family member or even a pet. The abuse and denial of women’s right is a crime and all people of goodwill must seek redress wherever it is happening. But the substitute is certainly not an imposition and assimilation of western feminist taste. That is the lie that is now shoved down our throats and methinks it is pertinent to raise these concerns openly to safeguard the mental health of many young women who are being misguided into this venture in ignorance by bitter renegades who are on vengeance missions.

    Yours sincerely,
    Citizen Agba Jalingo.