society
Mbaise Europe’s President, Kingsley Njoku Speaks On Forthcoming Anniversary …Lauds Project NWAFOR
Mbaise Europe’s President, Kingsley Njoku Speaks On Forthcoming Anniversary
…Lauds Project NWAFOR Igbo Convener, Rowland Okorie
…Says Project NWAFOR Igbo is a timely creation
Imo State indigenes are ready to set Europe agog as they gear up for the Mbaise Europe 4th Anniversary. The powerful gathering of who is who from Imo State in Europe is slated to hold on August 24th to 26th, 2023
However, the President, Mbaise Europe, Hon. Kingsley Ajunwa Njoku in an interview with us, shed light on what is to come in the 3days carnival-like event, and other important issues.
Besides, Njoku also lauded the Convener of Project NWAFOR Igbo, Rowland Okorie on the initiative, stating that the Project is a timely creation. Excerpts…
Sir, how has it been championing the Mbaise course for so long?
Well, we are one big family and we know each other by first names so it has been like a family affair. We look out for our own and try to make sure that our businesses and relationships are on course. Of course once in a while we do have issues we use our contacts and tradition to rectify and we as well make sure we sell our ideas and get our intentions known especially back home to politicians and decision makers in Imo State, we get people to know our stand on certain issues that may have serious political trajectories..
What are some of your organisation’s achievements over the years?
To move forward we must look back from where we are coming. We try to accomplish the much we can and for the past few years it has been more of a relapse and shock from the lockdown across the world due to the Covid-19 pandemic. We tried to stay in touch and also send the much we had to support those in need. But notwithstanding we have joint collaborations to look into trade and social integration.
We also have tried in our own way to have a small study centre where we have teachers to teach young ones igbo language and we have traditional retreats for executives as well . Our main aim as an apolitical cultural group is to promote the culture and keep the spirit of brotherhood alive. After all, when we finish we will all still go home, if not this generation then the next.
What is your take on Project NWAFOR Igbo championed by Rowland Okorie?
Project NWAFOR Igbo as far as I’m concerned is a timely creation. It can not come at a better time. I fell in love with it from inception, in fact from the moment I heard the name because it struck a chord in my spirit.
I bless Rowland for the initiative, the creativity and zeal he puts into it. The young man has spent so much money and needs assistance. The project is most welcomed because from its mission which is to heal and rebuild Alaigbo and infuse investments to make our land more productive, it has come to compliment any good governance.
I support this project and will make sure that with all the resources at our disposal we will make Alaigbo great again.
Having a desire and bringing it to reality are two different things Sir, how will Project NWAFOR Igbo succeed?
You know, I will not tell you how but I will tell you why Project NWAFOR Igbo will succeed. The mere fact that we are in Europe does not mean that we don’t think of our home. There’s no one here that is happy to be in another man’s land. We all desire to go home. But a wise man knows that when there is war it is the innocent that suffers casualty.
We are but a few that left long ago with intentions and desire to come back and rebuild. That rebuilding is what Rowland has started and we must all put hands together and support him in whatever way we can.
I will be calling a separate meeting of Igbo investors to look into any financial needs he may have and at the same time we wish to partner with the project. I will also put a private call to the Governor of Imo State to listen to what Rowland Okorie has to say.
What’s your take on the spite of insecurity in Imo State and its toll on investments?
Its quite an ugly and unfortunate development but notwithstanding you can see that the truth is gradually unfolding. It was in the news that a couple of thugs sponsored by Asari Dokubo were caught disguised as unknown gunmen. So it’s clear to the blind that Igbos are not violent people. Talkless of seating at home on instruction of faceless thugs.
We will get to the root of the matter and luckily for us even Project NWAFOR Igbo has a solution to the insecurity issue.
How do you see leadership in Nigeria?
Well leadership in Nigeria has always been our problem. Even till now we have not gotten it right. The leaders are disconnected from the followers and greed is just the order of the day. We need leaders that are pragmatic, selfless and honest. We are not there yet.
What’s your take on the political positioning of the Igbo people side by side claims of marginalisation?
Nigeria has never been fair Politically or otherwise to the Igbos since after the war. Everything the Igbos have, has been from their sweat and blood, and yes marginalization is real. It’s a threat to the very existence of the Igbos. It has even taken a turn for the worse as there is no justice any more, I mean with hooligans like Asari Dokubo threatening a whole race that he wish he could continue selling them like his forefathers and brandishing a weapon on nationwide television and the Nigerian police and the state security department cannot touch him.
What then is hate speech? That is another form of marginalization. when one cannot get justice and protection.
It started with economic marginalisation. Even the so-called second Niger bridge is not fully functional till now and there is not a single functional port or wharf in the entire South East.
Can I remind you of the Oseakwa Deep Sea Port that is a strategic economic infrastructure for global trade. It is a priceless asset for accessing a share of Africa’s free trade economy valued at $3.6 trillion. Yet it remains untouched and untapped. That is the marginalization I am talking about.
Nigeria, with a population that is four times greater, has far fewer less efficient international sea ports in Lagos, Port Harcourt, Warri, and Calabar.
For ease of doing business I suggest that Anambra must anticipate this emerging economic boom opportunity by attracting world-class engineering, procurement, and construction companies to partner and deliver the Oseakwa Deep Sea Port facilities today . This is what Project NWAFOR Igbo is all about. This is the foresight Rowland has and I am in full support of it.
What is your take on the last 14th Mbaise convention in Las Vegas and things that happened?
Oh that was an unfortunate incident that will never repeat itself again. We are wiser now and know that there are people in our midst that don’t wish us well..
Rowland Okorie:
www.equityconceptsng.com
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Banwo Questions Bwala’s Credibility After Al Jazeera Interview
Public commentator, Dr. Ope Banwo, has criticised Daniel Bwala, the Presidential Spokesperson on Policy Communication for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, following a contentious interview on Al Jazeera, describing the appearance as damaging to the credibility of Nigeria’s public communication.
Bwala had appeared on a programme hosted by journalist Mehdi Hasan, where he faced a series of questions about past statements attributed to him. During the exchange, Hasan presented video clips of previous remarks by the government spokesman and asked him to reconcile them with his responses during the interview.
The exchange, which has since circulated widely online, drew attention after Bwala appeared to dispute statements that were subsequently played back during the programme.
Reacting to the development, Banwo said the episode reflected poorly on Nigeria’s representation on international media platforms.
According to him, the availability of digital records and online archives means public officials must be prepared to defend their past statements whenever they appear on global television.
“In the era of instant fact-checking, any public figure going on international television must assume that every previous statement can be easily retrieved,” Banwo said.
He added that the controversy surrounding the interview was particularly troubling because the contradictions presented during the programme were supported with video evidence.
Banwo noted that while political interviews can be confrontational, government representatives should expect tough questioning when appearing before international audiences.
The founder of Naija Lives Matters also expressed concern over Bwala’s reaction during the interview, especially his claim that he was not informed he would be required to defend his personal record.
“A government spokesman should never be surprised by questions about his own public statements,” Banwo said.
During the programme, Bwala also responded to criticism of Nigeria’s governance challenges by arguing that similar problems exist in other parts of the world.
However, Banwo argued that such comparisons do not address the specific issues raised about Nigeria.
According to him, the episode should serve as a reminder of the importance of preparation and credibility when Nigerian officials appear before international media platforms.
The interview has continued to generate reactions across social media and political commentary circles, with observers debating both the conduct of the interview and the implications for Nigeria’s global image.
society
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
THE IMPERIAL GOLD COIN OF THE UNITED KINGDOM OF ATLANTIS UNVEILED AS SYMBOL OF SOVEREIGNTY AND HERITAGE
_[Atlantis City, United Kingdom of Atlantis – March 2026]_ – The United Kingdom of Atlantis proudly announces the introduction of its *Imperial Gold Coin*, a magnificent emblem of sovereignty, authority, and imperial heritage. The exquisite gold coin has been crafted to represent the nation’s regal tradition, economic strength, and the visionary leadership of its monarch.
The centerpiece of the coin features the dignified portrait of *His Imperial Majesty, Professor Solomon Wining*, depicted in full royal regalia. Crowned with a majestic golden crown and adorned with intricately crafted ornaments, the portrait embodies honor, wisdom, and noble leadership befitting a sovereign ruler. The depiction celebrates the monarch’s reign, which is associated with wisdom, development, and the pursuit of justice.
The golden coin itself signifies *prosperity, stability, and the enduring legacy* of the Atlantis Kingdom. Gold, historically a universal symbol of power, wealth, and permanence, reflects the strength and vision of the kingdom’s leadership and its aspirations for lasting greatness.
Encircling the royal portrait is the carefully engraved inscription *“United Kingdom of Atlantis”*, reinforcing the state’s identity any the authority of its sovereign ruler. The lower rim of the coin prominently displays the name *Solomon Wining*, commemorating the monarch whose leadership is linked to noble governance and national advancement.
The phrase *“Gold Coin”* highlights not only the currency’s intrinsic value but also its symbolic significance as a representation of the kingdom’s economic structure and royal treasury. Beyond its aesthetic elegance, the coin serves as a *mark of sovereignty*, a seal of authority, and a reminder of the royal institution governing the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The Imperial Gold Coin represents:
– *Unity* among citizens,
– *Loyalty* to the crown,
– A vision of a kingdom built upon *justice, prosperity, and noble leadership*.
Every detail—from the engraved crown to the polished golden surface—makes the coin a timeless emblem of imperial prestige and national pride. It stands as both a symbol of wealth and a monument to the legacy of royal leadership, reminding all who behold it of the enduring power and majesty of the United Kingdom of Atlantis.
The United Kingdom of Atlantis is a sovereign nation dedicated to upholding traditions of regal governance, cultural heritage, and economic prosperity, guided by the wisdom of its imperial leadership.
_Notes to Editors_:
The Imperial Gold Coin is intended for commemorative and symbolic purposes, representing the nation’s imperial heritage and royal authority.
Ajadi Visits Ibadan Chief Imam, Receives Blessings
The leading gubernatorial aspirant in Oyo State on the platform of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Ambassador Olufemi Ajadi Oguntoyinbo, on Wednesday paid a courtesy visit to the Grand Chief Imam of Ibadanland, Sheikh Imam Abdul Ganiy Abubakir Agbotomokekere, at his Oja’ba residence in Ibadan, where discussions centred on leadership, integrity, and the role of prayers in governance.
Ajadi, who described the revered Islamic cleric as a spiritual pillar in Oyo State, said his visit was to seek prayers and wise counsel as he continues consultations ahead of the 2027 governorship race.
While addressing the Chief Imam, Ajadi commended his consistent prayers for Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria, noting that religious leaders remain critical stakeholders in nation building.
“I have come to seek your prayers and spiritual blessings because of your important role in promoting peace, unity and moral guidance in our society,” Ajadi said.
“I also want to appreciate your continuous prayers for the progress of Ibadanland, Oyo State and Nigeria as a whole. My prayer is that Almighty Allah will continue to grant you sound health and long life to witness many more Ramadan seasons on earth.”
Speaking further, the PDP gubernatorial aspirant emphasised the need for leadership driven by compassion, fairness and accountability, stressing that his political aspiration is rooted in service to the people.
“My ambition is not just about occupying an office but about serving the people with sincerity and fear of God. We must continue to encourage politics that will bring development and improve the welfare of our people,” he added.
While speaking with journalists after the visit, Ajadi also assured the people of Oyo State and Nigerians at large that the internal crisis and political tensions within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) have been brought under control by the grace of God. He expressed optimism that the party would emerge victorious in all elective positions in the 2027 general elections.
In his response, Sheikh Agbotomokekere advised the governorship hopeful to remain focused on the principles of good governance, warning against corrupt practices often associated with politics.
The respected Islamic scholar noted that while politics is practised differently by individuals, only leaders with integrity and fear of God can truly deliver the dividends of democracy.
“Politics is practised by different kinds of people. Some play politics in a corrupt way, while others practise it with sincerity. My prayer is that you will be among those who will practise democracy in the right way if you become governor,” the Chief Imam said.
He reminded the aspirant that human ambition can only be fulfilled by divine approval, stressing that ultimate power belongs to God.
“Whoever is seeking a position should know that only Allah can make such an ambition come true. Whether a person becomes famous or remains unknown is also by the will of Allah,” he said.
Offering prayers for the politician, the cleric added: “Many people may be struggling for a position meant for one person, and it is only God who knows the rightful person. I pray that Almighty Allah will make you the chosen one among all the contenders.”
Using a football analogy to further illustrate his point, the cleric advised Ajadi to be wary of political distractions and misleading influences.
“On the football field, sometimes spectators believe they understand the game more than the players themselves. I pray that you will not be misled by so-called political gurus and that God will guide your steps aright,” he said.
Sheikh Agbotomokekere, the 18th Chief Imam of Ibadanland, is widely respected across South-Western Nigeria for his scholarship, spiritual leadership and advocacy for peaceful coexistence among religious and political groups.
Observers say the visit forms part of Ajadi’s ongoing consultations with key stakeholders, traditional rulers and religious leaders as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the next electoral cycle in Oyo State.
The cleric offered special prayers for peace in Oyo State, successful leadership, and continued unity among the people despite political and religious differences.
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