Blog: NELOC News

Advocacy for Youth Involvement in Governance puts much Emphasis on Age, not Capacity - Ekpa Stanley Ekpa

Ekpa, Stanley, Ekpa a practising lawyer and Director of the Development Watch Initiative shares in this interview, his thoughts on youths, governance and leadership

NNI: Can we meet you?

Guest: My name is Ekpa, Stanley Ekpa. I am a lawyer and a Master’s in Leadership Studies student at the Nigerian Defence Academy, Kaduna. I specialize in Development Law. I am currently the Editor-in-Chief, Nigerian Corruption Cases Law Report, and Nigerian Democracy and Development Report. I serve as the Executive Director, Development Watch Initiative. I have peculiar interest in Good Governance, Leadership, Development Law, Social Inclusion and Nation building.

NNI: What defines social development and impactful leadership for you?

Guest: Social development is achieved when people become the primary factor in a society or a nation’s development processes. The promotion of the inclusion of all components of the society – empowering the poor, vulnerable, minorities and giving hope and opportunities to the voiceless citizens. While impactful leadership is the ability to translate collective aspirations and priorities into significant and sustainable solutions for the development of our community, people and the world.

NNI: In building a society where the quality of things we do defines us, how responsible is leadership?

Guest: Everything revolves around leadership, from building strong and efficient institutions to building infrastructures, leadership is the undercurrent that provides the water of hope and opportunities for creating the equilibrium for the quality of things that define us both as a people and as individuals. Unfortunately, you cannot get quality leadership unless you have quality citizenship. Good citizenship that works through the entire circles of development of the nation – upholding the right value system, ensuring that the right leaders are elected, and holding the leaders accountable. This is the easiest way to prompt responsible leadership and ensure social development.

NNI: How have you managed leadership positions with other duties?

Guest: Leadership, or rather taking responsibility for my immediate communities has always been everything about me. Yes I have. Though in most cases it is very tough, but in all the cases, it gives me a unique opportunity to understand the diversities that the two tasks presents in proffering personal and social solutions from two dimensions.

NNI: It is usually said that a leader must be a follower. Is this realistic?

Guest: It is a truism that has it’s realistic result in practice. A good follower is passionately committed and deeply involved, giving him the chance to develop empathy, compassion and keen interest in the common situation and need of the people, community or organization. When such follower transcends to leadership position, it becomes easy to make significant impact given his or her understanding of the need of the community and his or her imbued leadership savvy. More importantly, such leader leads sometimes from behind, by positioning and delegating responsibility to others and supervising their works, results and impact.

NNI: Is leadership a mix of different skills? What exactly makes up complete leadership?

Guest: Leadership is a mix of infused skills and discipline for impact. Great leadership is about the creative balance between visions, strategic planning, collaboration and inclusion, performance and results, accountability, disciplined character of excellence, tolerance, and communication.

NNI: What inspired your book, Youthocracy, ''Leadershift'' for Development?

Guest: The advocacy for youth involvement in socio-political governance and cultural revolution was taking an unnecessary emphasis on age and not the capacity of the emerging leaders to proffer creative and sustainable solutions for the world’s complex challenges, particularly in Africa, hence, I felt the need to champion a new thinking in the desire to usher in a new generation of leaders.

For the past three decades, African leaders have failed to build a continent that provides the opportunities for inclusive prosperity and security. If the Africa Agenda 2063 would be actualized, it means that it is the young people whose future the agenda seeks to protect that can build it, not the generation that failed the continent for the last sixty years.

Hence, the crux of the discourse and philosophy of the book is on how to identify, build, galvanize and leverage a new generation of leaders for the development of their communities. How to get involved, win elections and do the work you elected to do right other critical issues that the book addressed.

NNI: By global trends, there is a call for youths to take leadership. How best can a youth position himself to be worthy of leadership?

Guest: First, leadership is not a tea party particularly if you are out to solve problems and make impact through leadership. But positioning yourself as a worthy option for for leadership consideration is even more challenging in developing electoral climes like Nigeria. However, to every problem there is always myriads of available solutions.

To me, building capacity either by learning or participation starts by building your personal leadership brand, building creative values of social solutions, building a strong network of like minds, being a problem solver no matter how small the solution, and working through the ladder to strategically position for great leadership.

On a more practical note, one can either position for leadership by leaning on the shoulders of great leaders through positive god-fatherism, or disrupt the political space to make a way for himself. The latter is more difficult a means, for it requires working beyond the limit line.

NNI: What is the measure of good leadership? Do you think social impact can be measured?

Guest: Good governance is measured on the scale of social impact. The aggregate dividends of your leadership as enjoyed by the people. It is easy to measure leadership impact because it is about the people and the community. The result of your leadership can be felt either negatively or positively by the people. Though social impact takes time to materialize sometimes but it is never hidden when it finally arrives.

By measuring good leadership I do not mean state sponsored billboards and media propaganda, no, I mean an impactful result that can be felt by the deaf, and seen even by the blind. I would have loved to use such economic indicators like GDP, inflation among others but in the end analysis, when the people are hungry and left behind without social security, we have failed the society.

Read: Family Plays a Great Role in Language Appreciation - Olagunju Modupe

NNI: What do you do at the Development Watch Initiative?

Guest: We are a citizen sector initiative that is committed to engaging the citizens to make inputs in the development processes of their constituencies and holding their leaders accountable. We promote citizens’ participation in monitoring the implementation of Nigeria’s developmental projects, budgets and policies from the local government level to the national level. Currently we are working on the COVID-19 REPORT, which is a comprehensive insight and report on Nigeria’s response, policies, palliatives and impact.

We have other programmes running, like our ”Enterprise Clinic” which exposes students across Nigerian academic institutions to job, entrepreneurial and leadership skills and opportunities. Our next training circle is slated for Sokoto, Oyo, Lagos, Kano, Anamabra, Rivers, Abuja and Cross River. We also have the Get Involved Challenge, Constituency Development Town Halls, among other projects.

NNI: What is your view on Global Youth Development and growth? Do you think we are making progress?

Guest: Yes, we are making progress. The United Nations has continued to create broad opportunities for the involvement of young people in actualizing the SDGs 2030. Domestically, the Not Too Young To Run Act 2018 has given much impetus and limited opportunity for young people to participate in the political space, as the huge financial requirements and commercialization of our politics continue to hinder their chances. Notwithstanding this, the 2019 general elections witnessed an increase in the number of elected young people to local governments, state assemblies and federal Parliament. Many young people have been given appointive positions both in the political and corporate sectors.

So, to me I think we are making progress, it is now within our arms as young people to get strategic and position ourselves through creative common council of like minds, support ourselves and collectively make our societies work for the next generation.

NNI: How did you achieve the fusion of your personal brand name ''Ekpa Stanley, Ekpa'' into your love for promising leadership and sustainable development?

Guest: I realized early in life that there is an inseparable relationship between law, leadership and sustainable development. This prompted my interest to study law even when I didn’t understand the proper places of these concepts and factors in social development. It was however my late mother that taught me the value of a man’s name. Ever since, I have tried my best to approach everyday of my life with sincere commitment to how my work (law, community organizing and leadership) would significantly impact my community, country and humanity.

I cherish my brand “Ekpa, Stanley Ekpa” so much that I work everyday to grow, improve and leverage it as a reliable source and Centre for national inclusivity, development solutions, cultural revolution and an ideological stand point for Nigeria’s future generations.

NNI: What is your advice to fellow young individuals?

Guest: My advice is very simple – young people must have the sense of ownership of their communities, be creative, resilient, and resolved to succeed against all odds and challenges. It is a tough and difficult world, but if you remain on your lane and timeline without comparing yourself to other people’s standards for success, your chances are high that you will become even more the person you aspire to be.

NNI: What should we expect from you in the near future? Any intention to go into full time politics? Any bigger plans?

Guest: (Laughs) Well, I am a very intentional person. I know that the only way to build the kind of country we aspire for is to get involved politically, and I know for certain that I will go into politics. And if by full time you mean committing and applying myself to my constituency and humanity without compromise, then I can assure you that I will do that full time without regret.

I believe this is my time to prepare myself for competence, leadership savvy and excellence in statecraft. I am confident our generation will turn things around but we must be prepared for the great task, for we must not fail Nigeria and the next generation of Nigerians. We are called to fix and provide hope, opportunities and direction for the new Nigeria.

12 Things to help you Grow Your Business in 2023

These 12 things, If followed holistically, would put you on a scale of growth and upspring in your business.

Here is a list of 12 things for your business this year.

1. Be Consistent

I realized that when you are consistent at what you do, you get better and people get to know you more— your brand.

2. Cheer Yourself

There are ups and downs in business too but you cannot keep staying on your problems. You have to stand up and move on when things don’t go the way you planned.

3. Choose Collaboration Over Competition

The reason for the success of a lot of businesses has been because they have chosen to collaborate more than they have competed. It’s great to have a healthy competition— it drives sales. Collaboration on the other hands does two things— drives sales and also gets your publicity on two different networks— your own and the other company.

4. Take up new skills for your business: it’s not enough to run a business, you should also take up new skills that your business would need like video marketing, content development, graphics designs, etc.

5. Hire more staff if you can: As the CEO, you cannot do everything yourself. You have to delegate sometimes so you don’t run down or so your consistent and you don’t affect your business.

6. Start working on taking your business bigger: You honestly should start planning how you want your business to be in the next years to come and start working towards it. In dreaming big, don’t leave dreaming big about your business out.

7. When you get an idea, do it: of course after praying about it and you’re sure you want to do it, please do it. You never can tell how well it’d grow. Also, start as small as you can or as big as you can. You don’t need to start with a billion dollars funds.

8. Don’t just market, make sales: there’s a clear difference between sales and marketing. While the former takes in money immediately, the latter just lets people know about your business and gives them the information they need.

9. Shake off fear: I know your dreams might be big sometimes or maybe many times but you have to go for them and shake our disbelief in yourself. It’s not from God. It’s a state of mind that restricts your productivity.

10. Maximize your network: Don’t just keep up contacts to call and chat for nothing. They should be able to help you publicize, talk to people about your business and positively help you build your brand by also patronizing.

11. Work harder: Work longer hours for your business and do the things that’d help your business grow bigger. As earlier said, get more skills, higher more staff, through out more sales driving campaigns.

12. Read more business books: No man is an island of knowledge. There are books that’d help you expand your horizon, teach you more and prepare you in that skill you have or you’re trying to improve in.

What You Should Know About Black Friday

Black Friday is a famous sales weekend that evolved from the Thanksgiving day just after summer. Usually, a significant number of individuals get to purchase items placed on the best deals and at extremely affordable prices. Many retailers and businesses overtime, like the popular Amazon, Konga, Jumia and other e-commerce websites put a cut to their prices over a range of products to allow users to purchase them.

The term "Black Friday" was first associated with financial crisis and not sales shopping. By history, two Wall Street financiers Jim Fisk and Jay Gould, together bought a significant amount of US gold in the hope of the overall price soaring and in turn being able to sell it for huge profits. On Friday, September 24, 1869, in what became referred to as "Black Friday", the US gold market crashed and their actions left Wall Street barons bankrupt. It was not until later years that the post -Thanksgiving period became associated with the name.

Also, when shops in the US recorded their accounting details by hand, they noted profits in black and losses in red. It is believed that many shops had their accounts read "red" throughout most of the year but they later "went into black" the day after Thanksgiving, when people bought a large amount of discounted goods and products. In more recent years, an inaccurate rumour circulated, suggesting that Southern plantation owners could buy slaves at a discounted price following Thanksgiving in the 1800s.

Police officers in Philadelphia were first to link Black Friday to the post-Thanksgiving period in the 1950s. Many tourists and buyers came to the city after Thanksgiving for the Army-Navy football game, thus creating chaos, traffic jams and shoplifting opportunities. The Police officers in the city were not able to take the day off work and had to work long shifts to control the traffic of people. As such, they used the term "Black Friday" to refer to it. The name soon spread throughout Philadelphia but some city's merchants and boosters disliked the negative connotations and unsuccessfully tried to change it to "Big Friday".

Black Friday later became known in print, after an advertisement was published in The American Philatelist magazine in 1966. By the late 1980s, the term was commonly known across the nation and retailers soon linked it to their post-Thanksgiving sales.

Black Friday today is recognised world over as the biggest shopping event of the year, when many shops cut their prices on a range of products, in order to boost profits and officially kick off the festive season. Retailers often continue sales throughout the weekend, concluding with online-only offers on Cyber Monday.

By Adobe Analysis, 80 of the top 100 US online retailers, found online spending on Black Friday 2018 at $6.2 billion, with two billion generated from smartphones. Also, in the records of the year 2013, Asda, owned by American retailer Walmart, held its own Black Friday sale which resulted in chaos as customers physically fought for televisions and other gadgets. Following this, Black Friday grew significantly with more retailers choosing to hold sale events.

Black Friday is an important period for many retailers worldwide it is hoprd that offering discounts will boost profits. However, the increase in consumer demand and competition between retailers has led to an overwhelming amount of visitors to online retail sites and chaos in shops. To improve sales and online deliveries, deal with competition and satisfy customers' needs, retailers now choose to run their sales across an extended period, rather than the traditional 24 hours. Many promotions and offers have started in the days building up to Black Friday, a move which has been dubbed "Black Fiveday". Some online retailers nowbstart their sales as early as the first day of November, continuing across the Black Friday weekend, and concluding on Cyber Monday, the first Monday after Thanksgiving which usually falls in December.

Biography of Foluke Daramola Salako

Foluke Daramola Salako is a Nigerian actress, movie director and producer born on February 15, 1978. Foluke was born to a family from Ekiti State. She obtained a bachelor's degree in International Relations from Obafemi Awolowo University. Foluke joined the Nigerian movie industry in 1998 with her debut in the TV series, "Palace". She is well known for her roles in movies such as: Above love, Durodola, Iyawo Mi, Fallen Angel, Official Romance and so on. Her marriage to Kayode Salako in 2013 is blessed with two children. Daramola was nominated for Best Supporting actress at the Africa Movie Academy Awards in 2013.

Full List and Location of NYSC State Secretariats in Nigeria

*LOCATION OF NYSC STATE SECRETARIATS FOR THOSE THAT WILL BE ON RELOCATION FOR THEIR DOCUMENTATION*

If you have issues in your state of deployment, or probably worked on knowing the Location of NYSC State Secretariats could be helpful in getting prompt response and help.

Across the Federation, there are NYSC State Secretariats with State Coordinators to attend the needs of NYSC Corps Members and Prospective Corps Members by managing the Scheme and reporting to the NYSC Director General.

NYSC Directorate Headquarters

1. NATIONAL HEAD OFFICE

Plot 416, Tigris Cresent

Off Aguiyi Ironsi Street, Maitama.

PMB 138, Garki, Abuja.

Email: [email protected]

Below are the location of NYSC State Secretariats with their contact details:

2. Abia State

The Abia State NYSC Secretariat is located at St. Finbarr's Road, P.M.B 7225, Umuahia. You can call 08038080871 or send an Email to [email protected]

3. Adamawa State

NYSC Secretariat Federal Government Secretariat

P.M.B 2252, Jimeta-Yola

Tel: 08034532096

Email: [email protected]

4. AKWA IBOM

NYSC Secretariat Federal secretariat

P.M.B 1087, Uyo

Tel: 07067700351 or send an Email to [email protected]

5 ) ANAMBRA

NYSC Secretariat 12 Okpora Street

P.M.B 4042, Amawbia,Awka

Tel: 08030708722

Email: [email protected]

6 ) BAUCHI

NYSC Secretariat Turaki Abdu Road, Fadamar Mada.

PMB 85, Bauch, Bauchi State.

Tel: 08035826100

Email: [email protected]

7. Bayelsa

NYSC Secretariat Block 7, Flat 1-4 Phase II, Civil Service/ FRSC Road , Yenogoa

Tel: 08035509109

Email: [email protected]

8. Benue

NYSC Secretariat: Railway Bye-pass

P.M.B 2358, Makurdi

Tel: 08034503113

Email: [email protected]

9. Borno

NYSC Secretariat Kashim Ibrahim Road

P.M.B 1124, Maiduguri

Tel: 08034362657

Email: [email protected]

10. CROSS River

NYSC Secretariat KM 5, Muritala Muhamed Way Ikot Ansa

PMB 1148, Calabar

Tel: 08036228426

Email: [email protected]

11 ) DELTA

NYSC Secretariat Federal Secretariat

P.M.B 5004, Asaba

Tel: 08069208212

Email: [email protected]

12 ) EBONYI

NYSC Secretariat :17 Nkwerre Street

G.R.A, Abakaliki

Tel: 08133786519,07032943999

Email: [email protected]

13 ) EDO

NYSC Secretariat : 2 Red Cross Road off Ikpokpan Road, off Sapele Road, GRA Benin City

Tel: 08022729750

Email: [email protected]

14 ) EKITI

NYSC Secretariat: Kilometer 2, Iyin Road

P.M.B 5302, Ado Ekiti

Tel: 08037752927

Email: [email protected]

15 ) ENUGU

NYSC Secretariat 2 Abakaliki Road G.R.A

P.M.B 1293, Enugu

Tel: 08033625243

Email: [email protected]

16 ) FCT (ABUJA)

NYSC Secretariat : No. 25 Ndola Crescent, off Michael Okpara Street (opposite Ibro Hotel) Zone 5, Wuse, Abuja.

Tel: 08035399787

Email: [email protected]

17 ) GOMBE

NYSC Secretariat, along F.M.C/ Ashaka Road,

P.M.B. 036, Gombe,Gombe State.

Tel: 08038334440

Email: [email protected]

18 ) IMO

NYSC Secretariat:Mbano Street Aladinma Housing Estate, Owerri

Tel: 08069523383

Email: [email protected]

19 ) JIGAWA

NYSC Secretariat Kigawa Road,

P.M.B 7049, Dutse.

Tel: 08033120599.

Email: [email protected]

20 ) KADUNA

NYSC Secretariat: Unguwa Rimi

P.M.B 2201, Kaduna

Tel: 09032941925

Email: [email protected]

21 ) KANO

NYSC Secretariat Gwarzo Road

P.M.B 3137, Kano

Tel: 08064126789

Email: [email protected]

22 ) KATSINA

NYSC Secretariat Federal Secretariat Complex Katsina.

P.M.B 2034, Katsina

TEL: 08033003708

Email: [email protected]

23 ) KEBBI

NYSC Secretariat 4 Patrick Aziza Road

P.M.B 1043, Birnin Kebbi

Tel: 08037540048

Email: [email protected]

24 ) KOGI

NYSC State Secretariat Lokoja- Okene Road Lokongoma Phase 1,

P.M.B. 1046, Kogi State.

Tel: 08023630991.

Email: [email protected]

25 ) KWARA

NYSC Secretariat: Ahmadu Bello Way

P.M.B 1512, Ilorin

Tel: 08141568319

Email: [email protected]

26 ) LAGOS

NYSC Secretariat: Old Census Office Babs Animashun Street , Surulere Lagos

Tel: 08074067007

Email: [email protected]

27 ) NASSARAWA

NYSC Secretariat: 26 Makurdi Road

P.M.B 31, Lafia

Tel: 08033120599

Email: [email protected]

28 ) NIGER

NYSC Secretariat Bosso Road

P.M.B 83, Minna

Tel: 08037877293

Email: [email protected]

29. OGUN

NYSC Secretariat Federal Government Secretariat

P.M.B 2093, Abeokuta

Tel: 08183858575

Email: [email protected]

30. ONDO

NYSC Secretariat Fed. Govt. Secretariat Complex

P.M.B 718, Akure

Tel: 08033740559

Email: [email protected]

31 ) OSUN

NYSC Secretariat New Ikirun road

P.M.B 4370, Oshogbo

Tel: 08035480543

Website: www.nyscosun.org

Email: [email protected]

32. OYO

NYSC Secretariat :Former 2, Mech. Drive

P.M.B 5500, Ibadan

Tel: 08034057996 or send an email to Email: [email protected]

33. PLATEAU State

NYSC Secretariat: Old Miango Road, Kufan Opp.Chindi Hotel,

P.M.B 2258, Jos.

Tel: 08033581133 or send an Email to [email protected]

34. RIVERS

NYSC Secretariat :40 Ikwerre Road

P.M.B 5210, Port Harcourt

Tel: 08033384547 or send an Email to [email protected]

35. SOKOTO

NYSC Secretariat Birnin Kebbi Road , Sokoto

Tel: 08027820338 or send an Email to [email protected]

36. TARABA State

State Secretariat: NYSC Secretariat 118 Hammaruwa way,

PMB 1058 Jalingo, Taraba State.

Tel: 07039194443

Email: [email protected]

37. Yobe State

NYSC Secretariat State secretariat Phase 1 ,

P.M.B 1026, Damaturu

Tel: 08037246098

Email: [email protected]

38. Zamfara

NYSC Secretariat Sokoto Road , Gada Biyu

P.M.B 1026, Gusau

Tel: 08131913334 or send an Email to [email protected]

Biography of Kehinde Bankole

Kehinde Bankole is a talented Nollywood actress from the Yoruba extraction of Nigeria. Born as a twin child on the 27th of March 1985, she is a Nigerian actress, model, and television host. She made her entertainment debut in Miss Commonwealth Nigeria 2003, then proceeded with Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN), 2004 Edition. She was named Revelation of the Year at the 2009 Best of Nollywood Awards, two years after her first screen feature in the popular Wale Adenuga's Super Story.

With an estimated networth of $300,000, Kehinde Bankole jas built her wealth from ambassadorships, sponsorships and featured movies. In over 100 movies she has featured in, here is a list

The Setup
Blood Sisters
Lioness of Lisabi, the Biopic
Lugard

Kehinde Bankole is active on social media. You can connect with her via her official handles on Facebook, Instagram

Bill Gates was Insane to Sacrifice Schooling for his Dreams - Kingsley Ndimele

NNI: Can you tell us about you?

Guest: Kingsley Ndimele is a young Nigerian. I hail from Abia State, though born and bred in the ancient city of Ibadan. I'm a graduate of the Department of Agricultural Economics, Obafemi Awolowo University. I'm also a writer, event planner and a business consultant.

NNI: You recently released a book, titled "Rituals". What prompted you to writing?

Guest: Yes! RITUALS is my first book. And I'm happy it's really making wave across Africa. I perceived the crave for success and a better life nowadays like never before. However, I decided to study the daily habits of highly successful people and I saw this small but profoundly striking resemblance. There are strong similarities in their daily lives. There are things they must do everyday which I call RITUALS. Thanks to Elijah Ajibade who innocently challenged me to write a book.

NNI: Asides writing and your duties at Novel Nigeria, what else are you into?

Guest: I'm a member of an NGO known as Impact Africa Foundation founded by Taiwo Oyedele (Tax Partner, PwC). We travel yearly to selected secondary schools across Africa to support education and give scholarships to indigent students.

I'm also the President of Nigerian Association of Agricultural Economics Students, OAU. Lastly, I'm a member of several committees across Nigeria .

NNI: What is Novel Nigeria about?

Guest: NOVEL Nigeria is a subsidiary of NOVEL 1095 BIZFIELD (a registered business name with the Corporate Affairs Commission of the Federal Republic of Nigeria). NOVEL Nigeria is an organized, purpose-driven conglomerate. NOVEL Nigeria is a fast growing international brand. At NOVEL Nigeria, our commercial service system is all encompassing and characterized by highly efficient concepts. NOVEL Nigeria is an expert in diversity, coupled with a committed pursuit of excellence which makes us who we are. For now, we do everything that has to do with events. We hope to expand our commercial horizon very soon.

NNI: What prompted the establishment of Novel Nigeria?

Guest: I started NOVEL Nigeria in my second year in the university. I felt a need to build an institution and brand that will outlive me. Impacting and building lives across borders means a lot to me. It's all I'm committed to do till death takes me away. The generation of Dangote, Otedola and Alakija is gradually exiting the entrepreneurial planet. Who will replace them? These are the drives that triggered me to start NOVEL Nigeria. By God's grace in less than two years, NOVEL Nigeria became a registered company with the Federal Government of Nigeria. Today, we worth over #2million. We've reached over 20 countries so far. We are making progress. We just started.

NNI: You said that you owe your success to your mother. How is this? Do you have other mentors and role models?

Kingsley Ndimele: My mother was less than 30 years when I lost my father. Since my age 4, she's been there for us. She never remarried, though she had the opportunity. Through thick and thin. Catering for 3 kids is not easy coupled with the battles she faced from my paternal side. She struggled to give us the best. That's why it's very difficult to believe that I have no father. Even some with both parents alive cannot stand us in anything. We went to the best schools. Before Dad's demise, she was just a school cert. holder with no O'level results. Today, she's an NCE holder and a graduate of University of Ibadan. As a widow, she did this alongside catering for our education. She's full of optimism. She's been a teacher all her life. She's won several life battles. She's hardworking and very prayerful. She'll never force you out of your will. No matter what you do today, she believes you can do better. I have other role models, but my mum na my biggest motivation.

NELOC: How have you managed all of these activities at Novel Nigeria with your studentship?

Kingsley Ndimele: Hmnn. At a point in his life, every man will decide what he actually wants for his life. I think I've gotten to that point. Bill Gates and Zuckerberg were insane and passionate enough to sacrifice schooling for the sake of their dreams. I'm not gonna drop out. But I'm gonna make the required sacrifice to become a champion. Being in school is a priority, but I don't hesitate to make sacrifices when necessary. Some of my classmates and lecturers know this.

NELOC: Do you intend to work in your field of study upon graduation?

Kingsley Ndimele: If the opportunity comes. Why not? However, I'm a very restless person. I'm not used to sitting down doing one thing in a particular place for a long time.

NELOC: By our background information, you're interested in politics. What's your political stand at the moment, especially for the 2019 elections?

Kingsley Ndimele: 2019 just like several election is not going to be any different. The ancestral politicians are coming back in a recycled personality. The young ones are only social media noisemakers. Imagine 72 presidential aspirants. Two old politicians and seventy young aspirants. If not for personal greed, what stops this seventy from merging to one. So it will be two old politicians versus one young candidate. As far as I'm concerned, Nigeria is going to move round the circle again for another four years.

NELOC: By current trends, is rulership for the youths in 2019, a workable project?

Guest: In 2019, rulership for the youth is not feasible at all. This generation of youth seems to be worse than our ancestral politicians. Some of the aspirants are more clueless and empty. They lack facts and figures. They are zealous without knowledge. I've always said, Not Too Young To Rule is not for mediocres.

NELOC: You also organised the first online business summit for Africa- the YES festival. What's the story behind it?

Kingsley Ndimele: One of our mission at NOVEL Nigeria is to build aspiring entrepreneurs and brand owners. We had to make use of what we had. Initially, it was a biweekly online interactive session on whatsapp. Before we moved it to a bigger platform. Luckily, it was the first in Africa.

NELOC: Tell us about your personal life and relationship

Kingsley Ndimele: I'm a very daring person and very playful. In fact, when you see me play, you'll doubt if I ever work and when you see me work, you'll doubt if I ever play.

Relationship...hmnn it's not time for public display. I'm still working towards it. By God's grace, I hope to get married by 2022.

NELOC: What do you think are your achievements so far?

Kingsley Ndimele: I've only achieved one-tenth of my dreams. NOVEL Nigeria, YES! Festival and RITUALS are my testimonies. The lives I've affected positively are my greatest achievements.

NELOC: How have you dealt with challenges overtime for your company?

Kingsley Ndimele: As an entrepreneur, you have to get use to challenges. In difficult times, i'm often calm. Business growth takes time that's why I don't rush the process. I think through rather than worrying. I discuss with like minded people also.

NELOC: How have you managed Novel Nigeria and your other activities?

Kingsley Ndimele: I'm a very crazy person - Very strict with time. I give my attention to things that matters alone to my direction. Every other thing is considered a distraction.

NNI : What do you think about Nigerian Startups and funding?

Guest: Funding for start-ups in Nigeria has been an issue for a long time. However, I believe money is not the capital you need to fund a business, ideas are the greatest funds. You need ideas to fund your business and you need discipline to keep it flowing.

NELOC: What do you, personally, spend most of your time on?

Kingsley Ndimele: I spend most of my time reading and attending to various needs of people.

NELOC: 2019 is right before you. What are your hopes for the new year?

Kingsley Ndimele: It's going to be a busier year. I'll be going more into photography and Graphics design. I also hope to learn an international language. In all it's going to be a great year. I hope to write more, be more focused and serve more.

NELOC: What advice do you give to individuals who have a passion for entrepreneurship as yours but lack the ideas and ways to go about it?

Kingsley Ndimele: Be definite for what you want for your life and pursue it with insane passion and resilience. The sky will be their starting point.

NNI: Thank you for having us.

Many Set Up NGOs for Selfish Reasons - Adeosun Adedayo

Adeosun Adedayo is a Social Volunteer in active volunteering for about 5 years now. In this interview, she tells us how she handles NGO leadership and Social Relations.

NNI: Can we meet you?

Guest: I'm Adeosun, Adedayo Ifeoluwa, popularly known as Ifedayo. I'm from a family of four. I hail from Ogun State and I'm a graduate of the Department of Public Administration, Obafemi Awolowo University. I'm an entrepreneur, CEO DEE STORES and I also help businesses grow using different tested and trusted strategies. Lastly I'm a social volunteer. I enjoy volunteering and I've actively volunteered for 5 years now.

NNI: How has the social entrepreneurship journey been for you so far?

Guest: It's Been both good and bad but we bless God. There's been a lot of challenges but passion has kept me in place.

NNI: What does managing an NGO entail? Are there any skills you have to learn?

Guest: Managing an NGO actually entails a lot. It requires passion, commitment, energy, time, money and endurance. And Yeah there are skills to learn. That is why it's advisable to actively volunteer for months or years before setting up an NGO. 80% of these skills are learnt during volunteering.

NNI: In pulling up NGO projects and schemes, what is your experience?

Guest: Pulling up innovative programs is actually a very beautiful thing I look forward too but it's exhausting at times. More challenges come up during planning and funding while execution comes easily when planning and funding is in place. My experience in pulling up innovative programs has been a mix of both good and crazy.

NNI: What do you do at the Ifedayo Foundation?

Guest: Ifedayo foundation is working towards SDG 3 (health and well-being). This is to ensure that communities have access to health care. We cater for children, the less privileged, orphanages, slums and rural communities. True humanitarianism is our lifestyle at the Ifedayo foundation.

NNI: What do you think about NGOs and Awards & Recognition?

Guest: I think this actually applies mostly to big NGOs. Many NGOs that are just starting up and are in their first to fifth year are hardly recognized. In recent times, NGO awards and recognitions go up for the "big people and politicians" who own NGOs.

NNI: Can impact truly be measured? What defines impact for you at the Ifedayo Foundation?

Guest: Hmm. Impact itself cannot be measured. However, impact shows up for itself. You can't measure impact based on the number of places you've visited but by the number of lives that have been changed positively because of you. For Ifedayo foundation we've been able to put smiles on over one thousand faces in more than six communities in our first year.

NNI: What is your view on Global Youth Development and growth? Do you think we are making progress?

Guest: Truthfully, many youths are trying their best, but we still have a large number that are not even informed about global development not to talk about working towards achieving global growth. It is in the ratio of 40-60. We're actually making progress but the global challenges we experience too has not made the progress visible.

NNI: Managing an organisation like the Ifedayo Foundation requires funding. Do you think funding levels for NGOs have reduced? Why?

Guest: Yes, funding levels has reduced. Funding is one of the drives of NGOs. Funding levels reduced mainly because some people chose to start or set up NGOs for selfish reasons. Asides this, many NGOs misappropriate funds.

NNI: While NGOs revolve round people, recent World Health Issues have affected NGO operations. What role do you think NGOs can play as regards Global Health Problems like the Coronavirus?

Guest: Awareness has been a major and key instrument used to reach out because of the recent world health issues. Certain outreaches have been put in place to help communities stay with guidelines that will help curb the world pandemic.

NNI: What is your advice to fellow young individuals?

Surround yourself with beautiful people and your dreams are always valid.

NNI: What new heights are you scaling at the Ifedayo Foundation?

Guest: Yes! Many big plans. We're presently working on a partnership with 6 other NGOs in Lagos state in other to cover 4 communities within September to December.

NNI: That's beautiful. Thank you very much for your time ma.

Dear Honorable Speaker and esteemed members of the State House of Assembly, on behalf of myself, my family and the good people of Ifedayo Local Government, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to you on your recent inauguration as the Speaker of the House of Assembly, as well as to the other newly sworn-in members. It is with great joy and pride that I offer you these words of congratulations today.

Your election to these esteemed positions is a testament to your outstanding dedication, leadership, and passion for serving your community. I am confident in your abilities to lead with integrity and courage and to work collaboratively to make meaningful contributions to the development of the state and its citizens.

I am especially pleased to note that you have taken on this important role at a time when the state is faced with several complex challenges. As you work together to address issues like health, education, security, and economic development, I urge you to remain committed to the ideals of accountability, transparency, and inclusivity in your decision-making.

Once again, please accept my sincere congratulations on your recent inauguration. I look forward to seeing the great strides you will make in your service to the people of the state in the coming years.

Best regards,

Barr. Joseph O. Onitayo.

08167931804

[email protected]

What is a nation without her history? What is the present without the past? The action of time does not allow for such gaps. Nigeria, as we know it now is not what it used to be centuries ago. The country has undergone massive changes in all spheres of life. The rate of population growth has increased exponentially alongside the rate of crime. The world of technology is gaining more recognition even as some brains are responding positively to the law of diminishing returns. It seems as if there’s a negative reaction for every positive action but it is all a matter of the state of one’s mind.

Nevertheless, the world stood still on that day, October 1st, 1960, when Nigeria gained her independence and waved her flag of freedom proudly with a wink to the British government. Finally, we’d have our own indigenous rulers. We would have the chance to tell our story in our own words and our language. Of course, freedom is good but what good is freedom when slavery still roams the streets? Are we still slaves? No, we’re not- to the British government. Still, slavery thrives in a free land. You want proof? Then, you are not far from the truth, citizen. Read on.

Bandits abduct students, kill villagers- ring any bells? It should. This is one of the stories in the news you won’t miss each week. How did bandits gain so much control? When did they become such notorious celebrities? This is bad news for the country whose anthem’s line goes thus: “Help our youth the truth to know”. I suppose you’ll be making youth like machines or importing them like AK-47 after all of them have been abducted. I wonder where you’ll get a supply of future leaders. Even if there are youth in the affected parts, they will be half baked because no parent would want to send their child(ren) to school with their hearts in their mouths as to whether they would return home safely. These people are forced to live in fear and these children have little or no education. Education, they say, is enlightenment. If they are not educated, they will have to submit to slavery, especially slavery of the mind.

Thunder strikes but some unions strike better. Nigerian students, you’ve not been forgotten. I believe every citizen has the right to education-I don’t think this line works around here anymore. Every year, we always have one or two strike actions in the education sector to add a finishing touch to the year. If negotiations can be made with armed robbers or kidnappers in a matter of minutes or days, then I’m sure the government can negotiate peacefully and quickly with unions to avoid unnecessary delay in the academic journeys of students. It doesn’t speak too well on our integrities for us to lie when we fill forms asking us for the year of our graduation. I think it will be quite nice to have a definite picture of yourself as a Nigerian student in some years without thinking of extra school years, thanks to strike actions.

I have one last proof to show you that the behind-the-scenes of the pre-independence time are coming back with more sass and jazz. 20-10-20: Do you remember? Were you there? Was your brother hurt? Was your sister murdered? For me, it’s a yes. My brothers and sisters were hurt and murdered. They were injured while fighting for freedom. I see the fights and the struggles of our fathers coming back like part two of Black Panther. The #EndSars protest rocked the country in ways we could never have imagined. Our eyes were opened to see the silent sufferings of Nigerians. Why should we live in fear of those who are supposed to protect us? Sounds to me like slavery, alright. To think that our lives are at the mercy of some armed men and women- that is unacceptable. We didn’t gain independence to wake up to another hello from slavery.

Do you remember those brave men and women who fought for our independence- standing firm like the ìrókò tree rooted deep in the Nigerian soil? They knew what they were trying to chase away; they understood that the umbrella of slavery was an illusion- it was not the real deal. So, they laboured with hopes that it wouldn’t be in vain, according to the national anthem. It is quite a pity that slavery was only abolished on paper. These are my thoughts and this is my country.

THIS 'KUNG FU' UNION NEEDS REFORMS by Jigan

The most powerful nation in the world isn't America after all, but imagination- Zig Ziglar.

Not one or two persons I've said that I'm too idealistic. That I fail to see the true picture of things. That most times what ought to is not what is. Well, while I won't disparage these assertions, my reply has always been that I'm a 'way-forwardist'. That my brain is wired to immediately trace the rot in any society I find myself, after which I immediately set out to tackle these issues. I hardly rant. Name calling and tantrum throwing is not my thing. I just want progress!

The events of the preceding weeks and in fact days have further entrenched our position as a 'gidigbo' and a 'Kung Fu' Union. The latest uprising was incited by a President, who in a flagrant disregard for Congressmen, put an abrupt end to the most powerful gathering of Great Ife Students. Dr. Ibk, in an ostensive display of dictatorial tendencies, decided to prematurely kill a promising Congress, and of course students got irate. Students got mad, the same way a husband will get mad at a wife who suddenly says no more to love making after clothes have been done away with.

It is clear that mob actions don't necessarily bring way forwards and as such they should not be encouraged in any form or manner. I must however say that the mob culture is a culture ingrained deeply into the OAU Culture. A last resort that has obviously brought no tangible result for a while now.

My opinion of the Union was formed right from my early days as an active participant in her dealings. It was clear to me from inception that that our Union needs reforms. It is clear that both constitutional and cultural reforms are salient if this union is to stand the test of relevance. It is conspicuous that so many salient proceedings that have no constitutional provisions have left much to the question, hence the intrusion of constant mob attacks. If the constitution we so cite and uphold was drafted by Students like us some thirty seven years ago, what are we bequeathing to the incoming generation of Unionists? Imagine if we had a constitution with express provisions that "a President shall not moderate a Congress if the Congress is to deliberate on matters pertaining to allegations against him in the performance of his official duties"

One must not however forget that people make up institutions, and that institutions are as strong as the people want them to be. It is apposite to state that mob actions won't stop if Union leaders keep defying and flagrantly disobeying the express wishes of the people. Truth is only people can strengthen institutions.

Lastly, I want to adduce that an orderly society is possible. A society of progress propelled by strong institutions is possible. A seamless Union where constituent parts know their functions and carry them out to the latter is possible. But then, the underlying question is, are we ready to reform this Union, make up to date laws and strengthen our institutions? Or are we content to rant, and rant, and keep fighting 'gidigbo' and 'kung fu'?

Jigan

Parliamentarian representing the Faculty of Law
Obafemi Awolowo University
08107232208

I Wrote my Entry 5 days to the Deadline - Lois Nguveren Ugbu

Lois Nguveren Ugbu won the Prose category in 2022's edition of the New Man Gospel Writing Contest hosted by The New Man Movement. In this exclusive interview, she shares her writing journey, creative process and how she pulled off writing an award winning story in five days.

I wrote my Entry just 5 days to the Deadline - Lois Nguveren Ugbu, Winner New Man Gospel Writing Contest

NELOC News: Can we meet you?

Guest: I am Lois Nguveren Ugbu a 200 level student of the European Studies Department, University of Ibadan, Ibadan, Oyo state. I am a Christian with an amazing passion to communicate Christ in words and letters and I am an omnivorous reader. I am also from Benue state and I am Tiv by tribe.

NELOC News: You recently won the 2022 edition of the New Man Gospel Writing Contest. How did you feel when you were announced as a category winner in theGospel Writing Contest?

Guest: I was so excited. I didn't see it coming at all.

NELOC News: What are your writing aspirations for the future?

Guest: I want to be able to do a lot of writings to tell the world about Jesus especially prose and any creative piece. I don't look towards being famous, I just want the works to reach thousands of people. I hope to meet people affected by the power of God through my works and communicate with them too.

NELOC News: What other things do you do apart from writing?

Guest: When I'm not writing, I'm volunteering or teaching. I love to add value every time through volunteering and I love to teach,. At other times, I get to learn what I love to learn most - languages.

NELOC News: As regards your dreams and aspirations, what is/are your greatest fear(s)?

Guest: My greatest fear sometimes is that I might have a bigger or different assignment and might have to abandon my dreams totally especially the dream of traveling the world.

NELOC News: What and Who inspires your writing?

Guest: I love to read my work to myself and just look at the creativity and smile and I love the smiles and reflection I see on others too. It keeps me writing. Also, many people motivate me to write. I'd just pick out Jackie Hill Perry (Gay girl, Good God) and Adegbola Goodness (Complete).

NELOC News: When did you start writing? Can you give us a background story?

Guest: I started writing sometime in secondary school, but because of laziness, I never placed a finger on it. It was a casual thing I did. I just wrote a piece on every of my birthdays and saved it up, maybe for an anthology, I'm not sure. The New man Gospel writing contest is my first official work actually.

NELOC News: How did you know about the New Man Gospel Writing Contest?

Guest: I got to know about the New Man Gospel writing contest from Mr Philip Vincent who happens to be the head of Publicity at the New Man Movement. I saw the information about the writing contest on his Whatsapp status.

NELOC News: As a Writer, what is your creative process like?

Guest: Because I'm a fictional writer, my creative process is mainly inspired by my immediate environment and issues that drop into my spirit. Whenever I get an idea, I simply pray over it and then it builds into a story. From that point, I start to write and scriptures start to come together and make the work whole.

NELOC News: What are your thoughts about the Christian fiction writing industry today?

Guest: I think the Christian fiction writing Industry has really grown and it's now so creative and powerful. My life has been affected by a lot of Christian fiction positively and the creativity always left me amazed and spurred me to write better.

NELOC News: How do you think Christians can write compelling stories to promote the gospel?

Guest: 4. Christians can write compelling stories that promote the gospel by always pointing people to the cross, to Jesus. Make sure your writing always draws attention to "HIM" and not your creativity. Of course your creativity will make people want to read but the whole point must be Jesus. Jesus + Creativity = a whole article or story.

NELOC News: As a result of the contest, how has the New Man Movement impacted your writing journey?

Guest: New man movement boosted my confidence. Having to get reviews from people made me so happy. I felt like I could actually write then I started writing and submitting writings at different places.

New man was a starting point and a push for me.

I needed it. Thanks to the New Man Movement, God bless the whole team and move the work forward.

NELOC News: What would you love to say to encourage other writers?

Guest: I'd love to tell other writers to keep at it. No matter the genre of writing you are involved in, keep writing, don't stop. Writing sometimes seems really difficult even when you know what to say, but don't stop, stay at it, you'll come out just fine.

NELOC News: What do you think about the New Man Gospel Writing Contest?

Guest: I think the Writing contest was such a great one for me. I had to do alot of praying, reading my Bible, calling people, running around. I wrote 5 days to the deadline. I was so scattered but it was an exciting and educative experience. The measures taken were fair and simple. God bless the New Man movement.

NELOC News: What new things do you hope to see in subsequent editions?

Guest: I hope that it becomes bigger and better. I hope contestants get to meet physically too. Maybe just the winners and they present their piece to a crowd and if possible constructive criticism comes after. It will be a beautiful experience really.

Biography of DJ Cuppy

Born on 11th November, 1992 Florence Ifeoluwa Otedola who is popularly known as DJ Cuppy is a Nigerian Disc

DJ Cuppy is active on social media. You can connect with her via her official handles on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. You can also follow her music releases via her official website here

Biography of Elijah Oluwagbemiga Adeboye

Elijah Oluwagbemiga Adeboye who was popularly called Gbenga Adeboye, was born on the 30th of September 1959 at Odeomu, Osun State of Southwestern Nigeria.