Connect with us

celebrity radar - gossips

Nigeria at 63: Collective Actions to Foster Nation-Building By Tony Elumelu

Published

on

Tony Elumelu to Co-Chair New Africa Summit at the 8th Edition of Saudi Arabia’s Future Investment Initiative

 

Nigeria at 63: Collective Actions to Foster Nation-Building By Tony Elumelu

 

The Chairman of United Bank For Africa, Tony Elumelu has called for collective actions to foster nation-building. He made the call when he penned an article on Nigeria at 63;

 

 

 

 

Happy independence everyone!

As we celebrate another year of independence, it is time to reflect, to look in the mirror, for our nation and ourselves.

We know Nigeria, we love Nigeria, Nigeria is one of Africa’s most diverse and dynamic countries. We are a nation that excites, beguiles, and dreams. Yet, amidst our diversity and that potential that we all feel, we have faced so many challenges. These challenges ask us to answer a fundamental question: What is our collective responsibility in nation-building?

The destiny of Nigeria lies firmly in the hands of its people – you and me. I am an optimist and I believe strongly in the potential of our nation. We must work together to create the progress we so desire through innovation, and with unity in diversity.

In August, I spoke to the Nigerian Bar Association Annual General Conference in Abuja. At the time of a new administration – and without doubt some of our toughest times economically, I spoke about our collective responsibility as Nigerians, and what we must do to foster nation-building.

 

My prescription, my advice, my philosophy is simple:

 

 

 

 

1. Unity.

We must set our differences aside and be united with one ambition, and one duty – nation-building. Whatever our backgrounds, geographies, religions, and experiences let us ensure that our country experiences a true renaissance.

 

 

 

 

2. Celebrate our Global Success.

We know the potential of Nigeria.

We know the resources, human and natural, that Nigeria has at her disposal. We must learn to champion the successes of Nigerians globally – in international leadership positions at the WTO, at the UN, at the African Development Bank, at the Afreximbank, in technology, in music and entertainment, in business, in arts and in media, in film, in sports.

We see these replicated at home – what we need to do is unleash our potential, create that enabling environment in Nigeria.

 

 

 

 

 

3. Business Excellence.

The Nigerian private sector is showing globally our capability, our ingenuity, our institutionalisation. We have global businesses with Nigerian origins. For instance – UBA, the United Bank for Africa, the only African Bank that operates in the USA, as a deposit-taking bank. We are now in Dubai, Paris, and London – and just as importantly 20 other countries in Africa. Who would have thought 20 years ago, that Nigeria would be home to Africa’s global bank!

The private sector must continue to surpass its own achievements and continue to put Nigeria on the map.

4. Shared Responsibility

Nation-building is a call to arms – a vital task – a necessity.

At its core, nation-building is the intricate process of forging a cohesive, harmonious, and united society, out of diverse individuals, cultures, and ideologies. It is the art of constructing a shared identity.

Transforming Nigeria is a journey that demands our collective dedication, building across political affiliations, ethnic differences, and socioeconomic differences.

One that is not the responsibility of our government alone. Great nations start with great people, not just great leaders.

5. A Shared Ambition Across Our Society.

Our private sector, our philanthropies, our civil society, all citizens must be brought together and be empowered – as real, valued and executing partners for this national renewal, this nation building.

6. Love For Country.

Let Nigeria be at the centre of our hearts. Let us invest in the brand Nigeria.

We have no other place, no other motherland than Nigeria. We must begin to show and share a sense of pride in Nigeria. We must begin to rekindle our hope and have confidence in Nigeria and in our leaders. Let us be proud of Nigeria.

The responsibility of nation-building falls upon each and every one of us. To truly build a strong and prosperous nation, we must be more conscious and dedicated in our efforts.

Let us be inspired by the lessons of history, motivated by the sacrifices of our forefathers, guided by the wisdom of our elders, and energised by the aspirations of our youth.

Together, we can build a nation we can all be proud of.

Celebrate 63!

#TOEWay

celebrity radar - gossips

Tunde Olaogun Honoured as Tayese of Oluwo: A Celebration of Dedication and Service

Published

on

Tunde Olaogun Honoured as Tayese of Oluwo: A Celebration of Dedication and Service

 

It is with great excitement and humility that socialite-turned-politician Tunde Olaogun announced his conferment as the Tayese of Oluwo, Iju-Ogundimu, Lagos. Speaking during a recent chat with The Message International, Olaogun described the prestigious traditional title as a testament to his unwavering commitment and contributions to the development of the community.

According to sources, the traditional council recognized Olaogun’s relentless efforts and selfless service, deeming him worthy of this esteemed honor. The conferment ceremony, a grand cultural celebration, is scheduled for April 2025 in Lagos, Nigeria. Although the exact date is yet to be confirmed, the event is expected to draw dignitaries, family, friends, and well-wishers from far and wide.

Expressing his gratitude, Olaogun pledged to continue serving the community with humility and dedication. “I feel deeply honoured and sincerely appreciative for this prestigious title. I see it as a challenge to be even more involved in the development of our community,” he said.

The forthcoming ceremony will undoubtedly be a landmark occasion, symbolizing not just a personal milestone for Olaogun but also a proud moment for the entire Iju-Ogundimu community.

Tunde Olaogun Honoured as Tayese of Oluwo: A Celebration of Dedication and Service

Continue Reading

celebrity radar - gossips

Social Media Erupts as Tochi Claims Most Women Would Ditch Marriage for N100M

Published

on

BBNaija’s Tochi Sparks Controversy with Bold Claim on Women and Financial Independence

By Femi Oyewale

 

LAGOS, NIGERIA – Former Big Brother Naija star, Tochi, has set social media ablaze with his provocative claim about the impact of financial empowerment on marriages. Taking to his Instagram story, Tochi suggested that many women remain in their marriages primarily due to financial dependence.

“If you give 100 married women N100 million each to go establish themselves, in two weeks, 95 will leave their marriage,” Tochi wrote, igniting a heated online debate.

Social Media Erupts as Tochi Claims Most Women Would Ditch Marriage for N100M

A Controversial Statement That Went Viral

Tochi’s assertion quickly went viral, drawing mixed reactions from netizens. Some supported his viewpoint, arguing that financial constraints force many women to endure unhappy marriages. Others, however, countered that marriage is built on more than just financial stability and that love, commitment, and companionship play significant roles.

A social media user @verapatrick commented, “I think what he is trying to say is that most married women are treated so bad that if they have financial freedom, they would rather be single.”

Another user, @edafe_vanvic, added: “A lot of meaning to that sentence. It also means that 95 percent of women are in marriages for survival purposes. They are just in it to make someone else responsible for their financial lives 😂. If they finally become financially independent, they will no longer find marriage interesting 🤨 because, to them, the man would have nothing else to offer them 😂.”

Tochi’s comments have sparked broader conversations about the dynamics of financial dependence in relationships. While some argue that financial empowerment can help women make independent choices about their happiness, others believe that marriage should be based on love and mutual respect, not just financial security.

The former reality TV star has not yet responded to the backlash, but his post has certainly ignited discussions on gender roles, financial independence, and the true foundations of a lasting marriage.

As opinions continue to pour in, Tochi’s statement has once again highlighted the ongoing societal debate about money, marriage, and gender dynamics. Whether one agrees or disagrees, one thing is certain – the conversation is far from over.

 

Continue Reading

celebrity radar - gossips

AY Makun Slams AI Deepfake Scandal: ‘Stop Tearing People Down!’”

Published

on

AY Makun Slams AI Deepfake Scandal: ‘Stop Tearing People Down!’"

AY Makun Slams AI Deepfake Scandal: ‘Stop Tearing People Down!’”

 

Popular comedian and actor AY Makun has strongly reacted to a manipulated Artificial Intelligence (AI) video falsely depicting him kissing businesswoman May Edochie.

 

The controversy erupted after May Edochie was spotted traveling in business class with AY Makun en route to the highly anticipated UK premiere of The Waiter, set to hit theaters on January 31, 2025. Shortly after their travel photos surfaced, an AI-generated video of them allegedly sharing a kiss began circulating online, fueling wild speculations.

Addressing the scandal, AY took to social media to denounce the fake video and called out online trolls for their relentless smear campaigns. He expressed frustration over repeated attempts to tarnish his reputation and sabotage his working relationships, referencing a past controversy where reality star Alex Unusual was also falsely linked to him.

In his passionate statement, AY urged social media users to redirect their creativity toward constructive efforts rather than fueling baseless rumors.

AY’s Full Response:

“Dear Online Innovators, As the future leaders and change-makers of Nigeria, I urge you to channel your immense creative talents toward building a better nation rather than tearing each other down. Nigeria is rich with potential, and your unique skills—be it in art, music, technology, or entrepreneurship—can be pivotal in driving positive change.”

He further lamented the toxic culture of online defamation, questioning why people continue to drive away those who work with him.

“The other time, it was the poor @alex_unusual who is yet to come out of all the lies and narratives meted out on her person for choosing always to support a family who was a major part of her brand growth. Must you all chase away everyone working with me or trying to earn an honest living through me?”

Despite the controversy, AY redirected attention to the real reason for their trip—The Waiter movie premiere. He urged fans to use their talents to promote the film rather than spread misinformation.

With the rise of deepfake technology, AY’s case highlights growing concerns about AI-generated misinformation and its potential to harm reputations. While social media remains divided on the matter, many fans and colleagues have rallied behind the comedian, condemning the false video and calling for responsible digital content creation.

As the drama unfolds, one thing remains clear—AY Makun is not backing down against internet falsehoods.

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending