Nigeria’s Anti-Terrorism War And Lessons from Civilian JTF

In war situations, there are always the unsung heroes. But it does not belittle their sacrifices in consummating the war.  Not many Nigerians have inkling about the lofty contributions the innocuous bands of youths in Borno state, self- styled as the Civilian Joint Task Force (C-JTF) made in the counter-insurgency battles.

They are even confused as a replication of the more popular Military Joint Task Force (M-JTF), mainly populated by the Nigerian security agencies. But C-JTF shares no similarity with M-JTF, but they are only conjoined by a common motivation- the freedom of their country from the fangs of Boko Haram Terrorists (BHTs).

Initially, C-JTF members were a bunch of idle, but angered young men, domiciled in different parts of the Northeast, who tolerated years of the decimation of their population and annexation of their territories by insurgents. Provoked, they decided to willingly enlist into the anti-terror war to save their communities.

Such guts deserved special commendations. And it came from the highest level. It came from a man who understood the risk of putting men on the war front. It came from the Chief of Army Staff, Lt. Gen. Tukur Buratai who publicly acknowledged and praised the contributions of the CJTF in the war against BHT. On several occassions such as during the opening of roads like Maiduguri – Damboa, Maiduguri – Gamboru Ngala and at Damaturu  – Biu road, the COAS reserved special commendations for the bravery of CJTF.

Having led the offensive against the terrorist group, the COAS himself realises that they are a great assets to the fight against BHT. No wonder, the military under Buratai’s leadership tactically deployed the CJTF operatives in the core area of intelligence gathering which yielded many positive ambushes against the terrorists by the military and degraded BHT supplies.

Day and night, youths who would later become members of the C-JTF watched the violent elimination of their beloved ones by the lethal explosions of terrorists. They wailed and woke up the next day to face fresh conflagrations, some of which also consumed their own peers, friends and family members.

They gauged the spirited efforts of the Nigerian military in taming the monsters and concluded, it was deficient to the extent soldiers were alien to the communities and could not identify insurgents in their midst. It was this patriotic impulse that beckoned at them and they responded.

This was after former President Goodluck Jonathan declared a state of emergency in the Northeast in 2013. It initially started as the Volunteer Young Vigilance Group and later, renamed, C-JTF. Adamu Buba who chairs the C-JTF, Sector 5, recounted that youths in the area were spurred into action by the terrorists attack   on Giwa Barracks in Borno state.  They felt injured and challenged; prompting the instant decision of youths to mobilize to the spot to render assistance to the army.

C-JTF’s presence at the scene of the Giwa barracks attack incident was their first and close encounter with the military as an organized group. The encounter was quite nasty because soldiers held them in suspicion, as vestiges of the aggressors who attacked them. Soldiers in stern voices, with brandishing guns, asked them to lie flat and roll on the ground. They complied and endured the pain, before a chance to explain their mission rendered itself. Soldiers saw in their rare courage, an instant ally.

The sight of people hastily escaping from the attack never deterred them either, as they instantly and fearlessly engaged the Boko Haramists in fierce combats with machetes, bows and arrows.  The terrorists fled Giwa, compelling them to bid a retreat, but not without incurring some human casualties.

With this singular act of bravery C-JTF launched itself as a potent ally of the military in the counter-insurgency war.  In their ranks, were farmers, hunters, graduates, village jesters, wood carvers and even princes. They were all united by a common mission- how to assist liberate their communities from devilish fiends.

Soon, the concept of C-JTF spread to other parts of the Northeast. And their work had no restrictions. They conducted security checks, acted as informants to security agents of BHTs in their midst, exposed their hideouts to soldiers, battled insurgents on the field alongside with the military and rescued captives seized by terrorists.

Additionally, the C-JTF assisted the Nigerian army to navigate strange areas in the difficult terrains of the Northeast and sustained vigilance over communities. C-JTF also incurred irreplaceable losses in the cause of fighting to liberate their fatherland. Some of their members died in battle; others were trailed and gunned down by BHTs in cold blood for spying on them for the military. The sacrifices have been enormous.

History has etched the name of C-JTF in gold as the civilian troops in   Nigeria’s counter-insurgency war. The huge contributions and sacrifices the C-JTF who staked their necks to assist the military accomplish in decimating BHTs would remain a permanent reference point.

Needless to say, bowing to the superior pressure imposed by truth, Nigeria’s Chief of Army Staff (COAS), Gen. Tukur Buratai is emphatic that “ It is not yet Uhuru” with anti-terrorism war. The remnants of BHT terrorists yet to surrender have taken refuge in various communities.

It pleads to community involvement, cooperation and support. Security as the cliché goes is everybody’s business. And among security breaches, terrorism is apparently the worse.  It imposes a sacred duty on Individuals and groups in every community to continue to sustain its vigilance and, to immediately alert security agents of threat to peace or its likely breach.

If the Northeast is today liberated from the fangs of BHTs, it is because its young and agile youths placed community and national interests above their lives in the quest for salvation.  The reward has been immense, both in the sight of God and humanity.

As mark of appreciation, more than 250, 000 of the C-JTF members have been commissioned into the Nigerian army, as assured by Gen. Buratai. Another 20 of these carriers of bows and arrows have been   recruited into the State Security Service (SSS) to officially become part of the security sentinels of Nigeria.

When the C-JTF recruits into the military paid him a thank-you visit recently, Borno state Governor, Kashim Shettima exclaimed in happiness that “The emergence of the Civilian-JTF was a game changer in the fight against Boko Haram.”

Terrorism in the Northeast is a history narrated and, perhaps, forgotten. But it is not the only area Nigeria is facing insecurity crisis. The Northwest is still plagued by the scourge of armed banditry and cattle rustling. The Niger Delta is caged by its own resentful militancy and sounds of its own disastrous bombs. North central Nigeria is under the yoke of herdsmen and farmers clashes in an era the entire globe is ardently preaching global food security.

These communities are not barren of sensible youths, like members of the C-JTF,   who   should frown at the vagaries of man to suddenly become animalistic and beastly. The budding youths of these communities are challenged to emulate the exemplary conduct of the C-JTF by voluntarily rising up to pair with security agents to liberate their   communities from the shackles of destruction by regressive elements.

None of the C-JTF members was prodded into action by anybody or paid a dime for this voluntary service to community.  It was just a patriotic instinct for the love of one’s community.  But today, the Nigerian military’s triumph over Boko Haram in alliance with the C-JTF is a joy shared and relished by every Nigerian. Youths elsewhere could become warriors in their communities by replicating this wonderful and exceptional patriotism.

SOURCE: Charles Ibekwe for threakingtimes news

75,000 Nigerians could starve to death: UN

 
The UN Children's Fund has delivered a dire warning that 75,000 children in Nigeria will die over the next year.

As many as 75,000 children will die in Nigeria over the next year in famine-like conditions created by Boko Haram if donors don't respond quickly, the UN Children's Fund warns.

The severity of malnutrition levels and high number of children facing death make the humanitarian crisis confronting northeastern Nigeria perhaps the worst in the world, according to Arjan de Wagt, nutrition chief for UNICEF in Nigeria.

Most severely malnourished children die of secondary illnesses like respiratory infections, de Wagt told The Associated Press. "But with famine, you actually die of hunger,'' and that is what is happening, he said.

Severe malnutrition is being found in 20, 30 and even 50 per cent of children in pockets of the region, he said.

UNICEF on Thursday doubled the amount of its appeal for Nigeria, saying $US115 million ($A150 million) is needed to save children whose "lives are literally hanging by a thread.'' Only $US24 million ($A31 million) has been raised so far, the agency said.

The lack of money has meant some 750,000 people living in accessible areas could not be helped this year, spokeswoman Doune Porter told the AP.

Most of the estimated 2.6 million people who fled Boko Haram's insurgency are subsistence farmers who have been unable to plant for two years or more.

SOURCE: AAP

What Every Nursing Mother Can Learn From Dr Olaitan About Breasts Sagging

Breast sagging is a natural process that happens to women,it can be as a result of age or breastfeeding where the breasts lose their suppleness and elasticity.

Dr (Mrs) Onayiga Olaitan, Medical Director, Lagos-based Queen of Mercy Medical Centre, talks about this and a lot more with Josephine Agbonkhese of the Vanguard.

On how breastfeeding make the breasts sag

There is a way a woman should breastfeed her baby. If you go through the normal position for breastfeeding, there is the likelihood that the breasts might not sag. However, in majority of women, breastfeeding makes the breast sag. This is because during the process of lactation, the breasts would have enlarged with a lot of milk collection in it. Eventually, after about a year when you have weaned your baby and the breast has to go back to its original size, there is the tendency that it is going to sag because of the space the milk had occupied before. But for some women, the sagging is more likely to happen if they don’t sit properly during breastfeeding; in a way that the child does not have to stretch the breast to feed.

On if bras can help breasts go back to shape after breastfeeding

There is a possibility but it is not to the normal size. What happens in a sagged breast is that the tissues are already loose, so, wearing some bras like the ‘packing’ bras, could actually help to reduce the looseness. As such, we can also reduce the sagging but not bring the breast back to normal totally.

It is advised that while a woman is breastfeeding, she should not leave her breast without bras because during these period, the breast is loose. So, it is better you wear bras so that they help to keep the tissues in the breasts firm. But most women believe wearing a bra while still breastfeeding would weaken milk flow… That is not true.

The mechanism of breastfeeding and breast milk production has nothing to do with bras. When the child puts the mouth to suckle, there are some messages that are sent to some parts of the brain and automatically, you have the release of hormones and the milk automatically comes out. So, the only thing that can impede breast milk’s flow is if the child is not sucking properly. But once the child is sucking properly, whether you wear tight bras or not does not matter; that will even help prevent the breast from getting unnecessarily engorged.

SOURCE: Vanguard

Post Insurgency Reconstruction: Shettima Sleeps In Uba, Another Liberated Stronghold, Tours Pulka, Gwoza, Lassa

Governor Kashim Shettima on Tuesday passed the night in Uba town, once held by Boko Haram in Askira-Uba local government area of southern part of Borno State. The Governor left Bama on Tuesday where he had relocated for nearly one week to mobilize reconstruction works and return of civil authority in the town which was worst hit by the insurgent attacks.

Uba town was put to life when the Governor arrived the Emir’s palace as he was received by obviously happy residents. Governor Shettima inspected destructions by insurgents during their occupation in the town and held meetings with locals towards enhancing community policing.

The Governor also inspected destruction in Lassa, another major town in Askira-Uba local government area during which he inspected houses, at the popular EYN church and gave directive for immediate reconstruction.

Before arriving Uba, Shettima was in Pulka, a populated village in Gwoza local government area during which he interacted with hundreds of returned IDPS. The Governor proceeded to Gwoza which served as a Boko Haram caliphate and inspected destructions before addressing elders and women at separate gatherings. While addressing hundreds at the Palace of the Emir of Gwoza, Alhaji Mohammed Idrissa Timta  the Governor pledged commitment to ongoing reconstruction works in different parts of Gwoza.

Gwoza is second to Bama local government area that suffered the same fate of destruction before it was declared as Boko Haram Caliphate in August, 2014.

Governor Shettima directed the Commissioner for Reconstruction, Rehabilitation and Resettlement, Dr. Babagana Umara Zulum to ensure that his ministry align with professional engineers/builders from Gwoza to immediately put the liberated town in good shape for comfort of Internally Displaced Persons (IDPs) who most of them have started returning back home.

“I want to sympathize with you over the unfortunate calamities perpetrated by boko haram in recent past, we are here to tell you that as government, we will do everything possible to rebuild all your destroyed houses brick by brick.

“We have also come with assorted food items including 1500 bags of 25kg rice, 1500 bags of beans, 1000 cartons of suphaghetti, Sugar, salt among other relief items.

“I urge some of the IDPs from Gwoza who are still residing in resettlement camps in Maiduguri and other places to please come back and join you, because, there is no any good place than home.

“I want to thank the federal government and the Chief of Army staff as well as the entire officers and men under the ‘Operation Lafiya Dole’ in the north east for their gallantry effort in degrading remnants of boko haram.

“My appeal to you all is to please give maximum support and cooperation to the military and the civilian JTF who are here with you to give you adequate security”. Shettima stated.

SOURCE:NTAng

Boko Haram refugees in Niger find safety, but lack aid

Refugees in the southeastern region of Niger say they no longer fear Boko Haram, but their problems are far from over.

Diffa, Niger - As Nigerian forces have progressed against Boko Haram, the cornered terror group has been carrying out more attacks in neighbouring countries. In Niger's Diffa region on the northeastern border of Nigeria, more than 280,000 people have been displaced. 

Most of the displaced, do not live in refugee camps, but in ramshackle settlements next to a national highway. The situation continues to deteriorate and new families arrive on a daily basis, fleeing violence and hunger in the Lake Chad Basin. Humanitarian aid organisations struggle to reach everyone in need of assistance.

Only a few years ago, Diffa was mainly known as a trade region. Bordering Lake Chad and blessed with a relative fertile ground in this semi-desert environment. Fish and agricultural products such as millet, pepper and maize were widely available at local markets.

Since February 2015 however, the deadly Boko Haram incursions have drastically changed the lives of local residents.

The strict curfew, closing of markets and the suspension of trade has led to an economic downturn, resulting in a humanitarian crisis.

According to the United Nations, the people of Diffa are arguably the poorest on earth, living in the least developed region in the least developed country of the world. Meanwhile, one refugee for every four residents has arrived in their communities as a result of the conflict.

Perilous life along the road

Driving on the national highway towards Diffa town, beside the perilous border with Nigeria, dozens of makeshift camps appear along the tarmac road. The apparent safe haven for refugees is relative. Scores of suicide bombings by Boko Haram infiltrators on this route have left people on edge.

But, as most of the displaced are farmers and herders who remain strongly attached to their soil, they feel that moving further away from the volatile border area, towards existing refugee camps about 50 kilometres up north, is out of the question.

Many of them still return to visit their farmlands even in high-risk areas, because with the absence of ownership registration, they fear others might seize their property if it is not maintained.

"Next to this road we have direct access to information, food and services. We all believe that eventually we will be able to return safely, and moving away from our land would mean losing it," explains Amadou, a Nigerien herder.

Some of the displaced received basic tents from humanitarian actors, but the vast majority built improvised shacks with whatever materials they could find: straw, tarpaulins or wooden twigs. Some of the recent arrivals still live in the open.

Village chief Andre laments the shortage in resources in Assaga settlement. "We are not able to produce our own supplies, and what we receive from food distribution is barely enough: only 12kg of cereal per family per month. Many live on one meal a day."

Hawa, a young mother of five children, says she is struggling every morning to find enough food for her family. "There is some foodstuff at local markets, but we have no money to buy it. I'm no longer able to produce milk to breastfeed my infant due to lack of nourishment."

Of the 20 million people living in the Lake Chad Basin, a region stretched over Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroun, at least 9.2 million are in urgent need of life-saving assistance and more than five million people are severely food insecure [PDF]. At least four million people have no access to aid, say humanitarian organisations.

According to UNICEF, an estimated 475,000 children across Lake Chad will suffer from severe acute malnutrition this year. In the northeast of Nigeria, where Boko Haram has been seeking to carve out a hardline Islamist state since 2009, the military confirmed that three to four people a day are dying due to malnutrition. However, humanitarian organisations say this figure is probably much higher as many areas remain unreachable.

Lives in limbo

Attacks in Niger are usually directed towards military targets, but often they are accompanied by plundering of food supplies. 

In June 2016, one of the deadliest assaults was carried out in Bosso town. Thirty-two soldiers were killed, while around 70,000 people were displaced. Many of the residents had already been evacuated a year earlier from islands on Lake Chad.

Ibrahim, a 45-year-old Nigerian, owned a small shop in Bosso. As he prepared for morning prayers one day, explosions and screaming reverberated through the village. He managed to escape with his two wives and nine children, after which they had to walk four days to find aid.

"We arrived with nothing. Not even a piece of soap. All we can do now is wait. Hope for safety to return so we can head back to our village and lands," Ibrahim said.

Following the onslaught in Bosso, Chad sent troops to Niger to help the West African joint task force to wage a counterattack against Boko Haram, while the government of Niger has extended a state of emergency until October 2016. 

A crisis for children

With a median age of under 15, Niger has the world's youngest population. This is decidedly visible in the populations of refugees and displaced, about 55 percent of whom are children. 

More than 150,000 boys and girls barely have access to education because of limited schooling in the nearby villages, which are already overcrowded, and because of closures of many schools in insecure border areas, according to UNHCR.

In the makeshift encampments, children loiter around while the days pass by, making them vulnerable targets for the fighting groups. Since the start of the conflict, thousands of minors have been recruited, often by force, and used to carry out attacks. Nearly one in five suicide bombers is a child.

"Providing them with a perspective for the future, with education, assistance and social services, is the best way to prevent recruitment," says Viviane Van Steirteghem, country representative for UNICEF in Niger.

Shortage of funds

Along with UNICEF, 30 other aid organisations operate in the area providing relief for the displaced, but they say they are underfunded and overstretched.

Given the scale of the crisis, UNICEF has revised funding requirements to $308m to provide life-saving assistance to families affected by Boko Haram violence across Nigeria, Niger, Chad and Cameroon. But the international donor community reacts slowly, as only 41 million, a mere 13 percent, has been received according to the UNICEF representative.

"We are witnessing a unique global situation, with an unseen number of high-scale, long-lasting conflicts. Never before were so many people forced to flee their homes. With everything that's going on, there is a lack of attention of what the people around Lake Chad have to endure," Van Steirteghem explains.

Further delay in funding for emergency operations in Niger and by extension the Lake Chad Basin will contribute to a deepening of the crisis and steeper financial requirements later on.

"Additional funding is needed to develop livelihoods for people in need, so that they can become self-reliant and once again a part of the economic development in the region," says Van Steirteghem.

This reportage was realised with the support of UNICEF, Postcode Lottery Fund and the Fund BJP.

SOURCE: Aljazeera.

Recession hit Lagos night clubs as big spenders evade recreation

The manager of Rumours Nightclub, Tobi Ashiru, has complained about the slow pace of business and the near absence of big spenders at the leisure facility.

Ashiru told newsmen on Tuesday in Lagos that the lull had made most club owners to explore more creative approaches to boost their businesses.

“One of the biggest challenges for nightclub owners is not just attracting crowd, but getting the biggest spenders through the door.

“The difficulty comes though, not only from getting customers in the door, but maintaining profitable margins at the same time.

 “There is an old saying in the club business, which I’m sure, applies to most businesses, turnover is vanity, margins are sanity,’’ he said.

The manager told newsmen that payment of salaries and other expenses are being affected by the slow pace of business. “We have to worry about the health of the businesses, and managing all of our employees, while also trying to find new ways to attract the best crowds and the biggest spenders.

“With so much going on, it can be very easy for things to fall out of place or to get overlooked. “Re-invention and thinking outside the box in order to drive up falling sales is certainly the best and possibly the only way to survive in the hospitality business at the moment,’’ he said.

He told pressmen that the prevailing situation had made it mandatory for nightclub owners to continuously adopt bold and creative measures to build profit margins. “I believe that having repeat guests or regulars; can help build one’s profit margin because there is no incremental advertising or marketing expense to bring them in.

“Additionally, providing valuable word-of-mouth advertising, asking customers to sign up for online newsletter to notify clients about special upcoming events at the club. “Sending them discount coupons with each edition of the newsletter and tracking how many of these are redeemed can help profit margin.

“You can have one of the hottest venues in your city by consistently providing an exceptional guest experience,’’ Ashiru said.

SOURCE:Vanguardngr

Nigerian army retakes Boko Haram's key NE stronghold

Troops have retaken a remote northeastern town along Nigeria’s border with Niger from Boko Haram militants, a military spokesman announced Wednesday.

According to army spokesman Sani Usman, Mallam Fatori -- which was one of the last few towns still held by the militants -- was now under full control of the military.

"Troops of Operation Lafiya Dole [a local Hausa phrase that roughly means 'peace by all means necessary'] and Multinational Joint Task Force have captured Mallam Fatori in northernmost part of Borno state after a fierce battle closely covered by air operations," Usman said in a statement.

He said “several militants” had been killed during the gunbattle.

"The troops killed several of the Boko Haram terrorists in the resulting encounter and subsequently had to withdraw to a vantage position," according to the statement.

Usman's statement about liberating Mallam Fatori conflicted with the army's oft-stated claim that the Boko Haram no longer held any territory in the region. Anadolu Agency understands that militants still maintain some presence in a few places near the country's border with Niger and Chad.

The insurgency has claimed tens of thousands of lives, brought communities to ruin as well as displaced over two million people, resulting in devastating humanitarian crisis that both Nigeria and various relief agencies are battling to address.

As army liberates more towns and people trapped by the insurgents, the country is back to having new polio cases from children recently brought back from areas not hitherto accessible to vaccinators. At least three new cases have been discovered, ruining the country's march to polio-free status next year July.

SOURCE: AA.TR

Woman Bites off Officers Manhood Over Attempted Rape

A Fire Officer with the Techiman Municipality in Ghana, Eric Ansah Andoh, has had his manhood bitten after attempting to rape Ataa Takyi, a female Youth Enterprise Agency (YEA) personnel attached to the Techiman Fire Station.

Ataa had to resort to using her teeth on Andoh who is the Techiman Municipal Fire Service Commander after he allegedly attempted to forcefully have carnal knowledge of her.

Speaking on an FM Morning Show, ‘Dwaso Nsem’, Takyi said she was forced to take the action when she could not persuade Andoh from attempting to rape her.

“He struggled with me and warned me that he’s the fire commander and he always gets what he wants. So I agreed and he stripped Unclad. I played romance with him for about 3 minutes and then bit the Penis”.

He told me he is the fire officer and gets whatever he wants during the struggle. In fact, I became weak and hence told him I had agreed. I then bit the middle of his joystick hard and he shouted in pain, with blood oozing.

One time, he invited me to his office and demanded that I unbutton my shirt so he can suck my breasts,” Takyi narrated on the program.

Andoh was rushed to the Mount Olive Hospital by fire officers who were called unto the scene after the act while she went to the police station to report the case.

SOURCE:thebreakingtimes

Best Model Nigeria (Season 6): 300 Level Banking and Finance Student of Uniben, Ejiro Joy Akpokiniovo emerges winner

Ejiro Joy Akpokiniovo, winner, Best Model Nigeria, 2016. 

The event which took place on Sunday 11^th September 2016 at the Bespoke Event centre in Lagos was indeed an evening to remember as advertised by the organizer Emmanuel Okitiakpe and Augustina Okitiakpe of Modelslink International. Guests at the event were thrilled by talented artist drawn from the Music and Comedy industry in Nigeria. The anchor of the show a well known Nigeria comedian MC Abbey was on point as there was no dull moment during the three and half hour show which draw guest from all sector of the Nigerian society. 

From left – Adedamola Iyiola Cruz (Face Of The World International 2015/2016), Faith Ogechi Nwihim (Face Of The World Nigeria 2016), Ejiro Joy Akpokiniovo (Winner Best Model Nigeria 2016), Ruth Darcy (Miss Progress Nigeria 2016), Tarere Obaigbo (Best Model Nigeria 2015)

From left – Mrs. Augustina Okitiakpe (Organizer Best Model Nigeria), Mrs Gloria Dafeta (Rep of the DG SMEDAN), Jude Onwusonye (MD/CEO Goldmoore Int’l) and Dr. Austin Izagbo (CEO Caniz Group).

Some of the special guest at the event includes, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of the University of Lagos – Professor Duro Oni, (Small and Medium Scale Enterprises Agency of Nigeria) The Director General of SMEDAN Dr, Umoru Diko Rada who was ably represented by Mrs. Gloria Dafeta, Dr. Austin Izagbo – CEO Caniz Group,  Jude Onwusonye MD/CEO Goldmoore Int’l. Judges at the event includes renowned Model - Nollywood star and  winner Best Model Africa 2010 Bryan Okwara,  Face of the World 2016 Adedamola Iyiola Cruz, Mrs. Goodness Ugbah – fashion Designer/ Beauty Queen  and Mr, Segun Oyeyemi Best Model Nigeria 2012.

The 14 contestant drown from across the country put up an outstanding performance as they took turn on the runway in their Casual, Swimwear, Traditional and their beautify made Evening wear. The Best Model Nigeria modeling contest 2016 produce Nigerians representative to the Face of the World 2017 in the United Kingdom, Miss Faith Ogechi Nwihim, Nigerians Representative to Miss Progress International taking place in Italy, Miss Ruth Darcy Otekewebia.  Other categories of awards include, 1^st Runnerup – Pamela Orizu, 2^nd Runnerup Damilola Oreoluwa Oladimeji, Face of BMN – Chioma Naomi Wariboku, Best Catwalk – Sandra Ikegwu, Best Traditional – John Lilly, Best Social – Favour Opara, Best Talent – Mary Isioma Asia, Best Photogenic – Chidima Onwuazobe, Best Creative – Chiamaka.

The climax of the evening was the crowning of the new queen of the runway which kept the audience screaming and jubilating as contest no. 14, Miss Ejiro Akpokiniovo who was also the audience choice was announced. 

The organizers Mr. & Mrs Emmanuel Okitiakpe who were full of gratitude to guest who took time to attend the occasion, artist who performed individuals and organization who supported the “Queen Edition” of Best Model Nigeria 2016 express their thanks to SAB Miller – International Breweries Limited who refreshed the audience,  Goldmoore Int’l, Daniel Omena,  Rekato Designs, Dabinchi Global Entertainment, In and Out Entertainment, Onyika Emmanuel (MC Senator), Total Beauty, Vera Onaro, G&F designs, Diovic Kitchen, Face of Ajegunle, DMZEE ATTRAKT, Digital Paymart and all the media houses and blog who covered the event.

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Health Benefits of Bitter Kola

Bitter Kola is a tree that grows in the rain forests of West Africa. The fruit, seeds, nuts and bark of the plant have been used for centuries in folk medicine to treat ailments from coughs to fever.

Basically, the nut is about 3-5 cm in length. It is ellipsoid in shape and covered with a deep brown peel which is removed before it is eaten. It leaves a bitter taste in the mouth when eaten and this is the reason for its name.

The scientific name for bitter kola is Garcinia kola. It is called Orogbo in Yoruba. The Hausas call it Miji-goro, while it is called Akiilu by the Igbos. It has some major health benefits:

1. It Improves Lung Functions:   

Bitter kola (Garcinia kola) has been used for centuries to treat chest colds in traditional medicine, but research has taken a look and found out why it is effective. A study in the 2009 issue of The Internet Journal of Pulmonary Medicine, performed on mice, reports that Garcinia kola improved respiratory function after 28 days of use of a Garcinia extract. Written by Simon Adekunle of the Ekiti State University in Nigeria, the study shows that Garcinia kola works by dilating the alveolar ducts and sacs in the lungs by improving the strength of the fibres in the lung tissue. Bitter kola’s beneficial lung properties are attributed to its high antioxidant content.

2. Anti-malarial Properties               

Considerable experimental studies discovered that the chemical constituents in bitter kola have anti-malaria properties. Also, over the years, traditional healers have recommended bitter kola for the treatment of malaria infections. Researchers who reported that bitter kola had anti-malaria effect in the 2010 issue of Journal of Medicinal Plants Research, from a survey of plants used by traditional healers in the Democratic Republic of Congo, attributed this to its Quinone’s content. Furthermore, Kolaviron, the powerful chemical compound found in bitter kola, was reportedly tested on a malaria parasite and found to inhibit malarial activity.

3. Improves Male Fertility

Garcinia kola, also called bitter kola is sometimes believed to cure impotence. Frequent taking of bitter kola boosts a man’s performance in bed with a woman.

4. Reduces Eye Pressure (Glaucoma)    

An increase in eye pressure can lead to glaucoma, according to a report from The New York Times Health Guide. Researchers at Lagos University Teaching Hospital in Nigeria tested the effectiveness of eye drops that contained 0.5 percent extract of Garcinia kola. The results of their study, published in the January 2010 issue of Middle East African Journal of Opthamology, showed that the opthamolic solution that contained the Garcinia significantly reduced eye pressure when used twice a day.

5. Health Benefit for HIV    

Bitter kola is a potent antibiotic which could be efficacious in the treatment of HIV and AIDS. A researcher with the Nigeria Natural Medicine Development Agency (NNMDA), Mrs. Chinyere Nwokeke told the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that bitter kola could be used in treating opportunistic infections associated with HIV. “Bitter kola is highly recommended in the treatment of HIV and AIDS because of its antibacterial, detoxification, and cleansing properties”, she said. Mrs Chinyere Nwokeke also said that the chemical, Saponin, in bitter kola is responsible for its cleansing effect. Saponin is mainly used as tonic for the liver, it enhances the functions of the liver and gall bladder.

6. Remedy For Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis, characterised by pain, inflammation and limited movement in the joints, according to the National Institutes of Health. Causes of osteoarthritis can include joint injury, obesity and aging. Since many arthritis sufferers prefer natural herbal medicines to other pain relievers and medications, researchers at Obafemi Awolowo University in Nigeria tested the effects of Garcinia kola against arthritis symptoms. The results of the study, written by Olayinka O. Adegbehingbe and published in the July 2008 issue of the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and Research, conclude that Garcinia kola significantly reduced inflammation and pain and increased joint movement in subjects that had osteoarthritis symptoms.

7. Cure For Cold

Bitter kola is often used to treat the symptoms of colds. It is suggested, in particular, for coughs and sneezing.

8. Commercial Benefits

Commercialisation of bitter kola brings a lot of monetary advantages. Due to its multiple benefits, bitter kola is urgently sourced for both locally and internationally, hence yielding a lot of foreign revenue. With just a little quantity in kilograms, as requested by the buyer, with good and proper packaging, one can make a lot of profit in foreign currency. One just needs to be able to get a good buyer and knowledge about the business and start reaping the benefits.

In Nigeria today, bitter kola should become an important commodity to be sourced for by every citizen for its nutritional, health and commercial benefits.

SOURCE: Leadershipng

Ambode promises to deal with sex offenders, others

Governor Akinwunmi Ambode of Lagos State on Thursday led a walk against sexual and gender –based violence, vowing that his administration would ensure that all perpetrators of sexual crimes face the wrath of the law.

The members of the Lagos State Executive Council, members of the Sttate House of Assembly and entertainers, among others, joined in the walk, which started from the Ikeja under bridge area through Awolowo Way to the Lagos House, Alausa.

The governor, who displayed a placard with the inscription ‘Stop Rape, Domestic Violence, Child Abuse’, said men must take a stand by tackling the menace of gender-based crimes in the society.

He said, “Women are mostly the victims of sexual and gender-based violence and there is an evident trend of suppressing the voice of these victims due to the fact that these acts are perpetrated largely by men.

“We should not take for granted the effect of having emotionally and psychologically damaged women in our society, which could transcend to our children.”

Ambode said the government had initiated several programmes to assist the victims, adding that it was also pertinent to address the violent behaviour of men.

He said, “We firmly believe that the way forward is to continuously engage the men, as well as the community as a whole, to prevent and respond to all forms of gender-based violence.”

Ambode urged the participants in the walk to remain ambassadors in the fight against domestic and sexual violence.

“The conversation must be sustained in our workplaces, religious institutions, residential areas and the social media. If we all join hands, we can truly make Lagos uncomfortable for perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence,” he added.

The governor also commended the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team, organisers of the walk, just as he said his administration would do more to ensure that the rights of the vulnerable in the state were adequately protected.
SOURCE: Punchng

Ogadinma Mgbajah Is The First Female Cardiothoracic Surgeon In West Africa

Dr Ogadinma Mgbajah is the first woman to become a Cardiothoracic Surgeon In West Africa

With no clue that that there had not been a female in the field before her in West Africa, Ogadinma only wanted a platform to help people who have heart problems, however, she has emerged West Africa’s first female open-heart surgeon .

Practicing at the Lagos State University Teaching Hospital, Ogadinma Mgbajah said lecturers and examiners during the course of her training pointed it out to her that she was the first female in that field and that had encouraged her to continue.

In an interview with Punch in May, Ogadinma asserted there were competitions although very subtle from her male colleagues.

“I think the society has a way of conditioning women to think that there are some areas that do not belong to them. You cannot take away culture from us as Nigerians. We think that there is a limit to what a woman is supposed to do.  When you speak to medical students about what they want to do, they start by saying, “well, I’m a woman…” The fact that she is a woman clouds her judgement. She is her own biggest challenge. A woman needs to know that all you need to do is identify a problem and ask yourself if you have the capacity to solve this problem. If you don’t, can you build the capacity? If yes, then you go for it.” she said

Ogadinma also explained that her training took seven years and she had all her children within that period.

Speaking about the challenges of open-heart surgery in Nigeria, Ogadinma explained that providing for the care is expensive.

“Basically, the challenge with this specialty is because it is very precise. To provide cardiothoracic care is very costly. I am hoping we will get a lot of government support and health insurance to be able to help people who have this problem.”

“Nigeria has very few cardiothoracic surgeons because after the training, people ask themselves if they would actually be able to practise because most of the patients you see don’t have the finance to support themselves. A lot of patients are not even aware because a lot of cardiac problems are seen as spiritual attack. A lot of people have taken it as a death sentence when they walk into a hospital and they are told their hearts have failed. But there are so much that can be done to give such people a good quality of life.”

SOURCE: Womanng

18 Boko Haram Militants Surrender To Nigerian Military as Factions Clash in Borno

TEHRAN (FNA)- At least 18 members of the Boko Haram militant group and their families surrendered to Nigerian military after bloody clashes erupted between factions loyal to the group’s founder, Abubakar Shekau, and the ISIL-backed Abu Musab Albarnawi in Northeastern town of Monguno, Borno state.

“They are under custody of Monguno command and we believe the dual battle between Albarnawi and Shekau’s camps may have compelled them to sneak out and surrender,” Ali Mohammed, a member of a vigilante group in northeastern town of Monguno, said, 360 Nobs reported.

Trouble started within the hegemony of the sect after the ISIL terror group announced Abu Musab al-Barnawi, the son of Boko Haram’s founder Mohammed Yusuf, as the sect’s new leader to replace Abubakar Shekau.

Even though his allegiance remains with the ISIL, the undeterred Shekau insisted that he was still in charge of the Nigerian-based ferocious death cult.

Sources with impeccable cognizance of the happenings disclosed that there have been deadly skirmishes between Boko Haram’s factions led by Shekau and ISIL-backed al-Barnawi respectively.

Last Thursday, several fighters from Shekau’s camp were said to have been killed in two separate gun battles with ISIL-backed Barnawi gunmen in the Monguno area of Borno State near Lake Chad.

A source, Mele Kaka, told AFP that: “The Barnawi faction launched an offensive against the fighters of Shekau faction who were camped in Yele and Arafa villages.

“In Yele, the assailants killed three people from the Shekau camp, injured one and took one with them, while several others were killed in Arafa.”

“The Barnawi fighters told villagers after each attack that they were fighting the other camp because they are killing innocent people, looting their property and burning their homes.

Meanwhile, the Nigerian military has been declining to comment on the reported in-fighting when contacted by media.

IDPs: Arewa Creative Industry On Rescue Mission

As Nigerians answer the clarion call on the misery of the internationally displaced persons (IDPs) in the country, so many governmental and non-governmental organisations, including national and international donour groups come together to render their help in restoring the IDPs. The peril of the refugees, according to reports, needs to be reflected upon and more importantly take action on the desolation of the growing numbers of our citizens, who have been forced to migrate and become either refugees in neighbouring countries or internally displaced persons (IDPs) within the country.

Few weeks ago, the Prime Minister of Niger, Brigi Rafini also visited Diffa province in his country, which shares a border with Borno State to see for himself the problems posed by Nigerian refugees. His conclusion was categorical; Niger cannot cope with the numbers of Nigerians crossing the border. The humanitarian crisis was beyond their means. He explained that after one attack by Boko Haram, 17,000 refugees turned up at Gagamari village, 20 km away from Diffa, within one week multiplying the population of the village by five. As the people of Niger are themselves very poor, they simply do not have the capacity to cater for them although they are doing the best that they can. The estimate of monthly expenditure necessary to take care of Nigerian refugees in Diffa alone is 17 billion CFA. The Government of Niger simply does not have the resources to cope he explained. There are currently over 100,000 Nigerian refugees in Niger alone. The numbers in Cameroon and Chad are also growing.

As against this background, Kaduna State government, through the Special Assistant to Governor Nasir Ahmad el-Rufai on Creative Arts, Hajiya Halima Idris, organises series of vocational skill centres for the IDPs in the state.  Describing the situation, Hajiya Idris has said the IDPs resulting from the Boko Haram insurgency is a clear display of all the hallmarks of the highest category crises.

Halima, who spoke after a visit to 270 IDPs currently taking shelter in Barakallahu, a suburb of Kaduna metropolis when she led members of the Arewa Creative Industry to donate assorted items, has convincingly extended Kaduna State government’s efforts in eradicating crime and social vices. The state government, according to her, has stepped up its rehabilitation programme which is not only limited to the IDPs, but for all those in need of rehabilitation.

“We have decided to come for ourselves to check what is happening. We want everybody to be self-employed so that subsequently they would be providing for themselves and others,” Hajiya Idris who is also the founder of the Arewa Creative Industry said.

She noted that the civilians, including children, leaving newly liberated areas, bear the signs of advanced malnutrition, and of deep trauma, having been caught in a conflict that has cost them their homes, their livelihoods and often their family members.

She said that the IDPs created by the Boko Haram insurgency were not only a problem for the North-East, but for the entire country. She therefore calls on the Nigerian government and the international community to take urgent humanitarian measures to save lives and ensure the protection of the multitude of internally displaced people (IDPs) in the country.

In addition, Hajiya Halima Abdullahi, popularly known as Uwar Marayu also noted that Nigeria currently has over four million IDPs who have been forced to leave their communities and homes due to violent conflicts. “It is quite disheartening that Nigeria is currently having millions of IDPs making the country the third worst countries in the world ranking of IDP numbers. Worldwide, the number of IDPs according to International Displacement Monitoring Centre (IDMC) in 2013 stood at 33.3 million people. Their spatial distribution shows that 63 per cent of IDPs are located in only five countries affected by conflict – Syria (6.5 million), Colombia (5.7 million), Nigeria, (3.3 million), the Democratic Republic of Congo (2.7 million) and Sudan (2.4 million).

“Because these figures change in response to the conflict situation within countries, the caseload and therefore the ranking of the countries also change over time. The number of IDPs in Nigeria has grown considerably since the 2013 estimates and is today over four million,” noted Uwar Marayu.

Hajiya Halima conveyed Governor el-Rufai’s pledge to continue supporting the IDPs in the state as measures to curb the danger of compatriots becoming totally dependent of others for help. She said the state government is worried about the hardship and the trauma the IDPs are going through and urge them to be confident and support the initiative for a sustainable development.

As part of the activities of the august visit to the camp, top Kannywood actress, Nafisah Abdullahi, as well as other top creative Hausa Hip-hop artistes; Sadiya Yarima, Khalid and Bangis thrilled the IDPs with their performances.

SOURCE: Leadershipng