Connect with us

society

Strength in Unity: NUSA Kempton Park Ward Inauguration Sets Standard for Nigerian Diaspora Leadership

Published

on

Strength in Unity: NUSA Kempton Park Ward Inauguration Sets Standard for Nigerian Diaspora Leadership.

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com

Introduction.

On Saturday, the 23rd of August 2025, Nigerians in Kempton Park, Gauteng, witnessed a landmark moment as the Nigerian Union South Africa (NUSA) successfully conducted the election and inauguration of its Kempton Park Ward executives. Held at the prestigious Friedman Stad Hotel, the event was not only calm and peaceful but also entertaining and filled with optimism for the future.

The ceremony drew an impressive presence of national and provincial leaders of NUSA, including the President General, Adv. Smart I. Nwobi, the BoT Chairman, Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen, the Grand Patron, Hon. Ikechukwu Anyene, the Secretary General/Acting Gauteng Chairperson, Mr. Yomi Jola-Michael, his assistant secretary, Hon. Coker, the Deputy Organising Secretary, Hon. Emeka Dibie and the Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President General, Hon. George O. Sylvester.

Their presence underscored the seriousness of the moment, proving once again that NUSA is a union of structure, discipline and grassroots accountability.

Why the Kempton Park Ward Election Matters.

NUSA is not merely a social association; it is the umbrella body representing Nigerians across South Africa. It advocates for Nigerian rights, mediates in times of crisis, engages South African authorities on issues of policy and fosters unity among Nigerians.

The inauguration of the Kempton Park Ward executives was therefore not just another election. It was a strategic expansion of NUSA’s grassroots structures, a bold statement that Nigerians in Kempton Park will now have direct representation, closer support systems and a structured pathway to engage with both NUSA leadership and South African authorities.

Kempton Park is home to thousands of Nigerians engaged in trade, academia, business, religious ministry and the arts. Having a recognized ward structure here is a reassurance that NUSA is present where its people are most active.

Presence of Leaders: A Testament to Unity

The caliber of leaders who graced the event revealed its historical importance.

Adv. Smart I. Nwobi, President General of NUSA, delivered the keynote remarks. He congratulated the newly elected executives and urged them to prioritize service above self. His words reminded everyone that leadership is a responsibility not a privilege.

Hon. Ekos Akpokabayen, BoT Chairman, one of the most respected financial minds in the Nigerian diaspora, highlighted the importance of accountability, stressing that leadership without integrity is leadership bound to collapse.

Hon. Ikechukwu Anyene, Grand Patron of NUSA, represented the moral conscience of the union. His symbolic role as patron brought a sense of tradition and stability.

Mr. Yomi Jola-Michael, Secretary General/Acting Gauteng Chairperson, along with Hon. Coker and Hon. Emeka Dibie, underscored the administrative strength of NUSA. Their presence confirmed that the Kempton Park Ward is fully integrated into the provincial and national hierarchy.

Hon. George O. Sylvester, Senior Special Assistant on Media and Publicity to the President General, reminded the gathering of the importance of media visibility. Through his work, NUSA ensures transparency, documentation and a positive narrative about Nigerians in South Africa.

This unity of leadership at all levels (national, provincial and ward) gave the inauguration a seal of legitimacy and inspiration.

A Peaceful and Democratic Process.

Elections often come with tension, but the Kempton Park Ward election defied that trend. It was orderly, transparent and peaceful. This calm atmosphere sends a powerful message (not only to Nigerians but also to South African observers) that Nigerians are capable of conducting democratic processes with dignity and respect.

In an environment where migrant communities are often stereotyped or misrepresented, such peaceful processes are crucial in reshaping narratives. It shows Nigerians as builders of democracy, not disruptors of order.

The Role of Ward Structures in NUSA.

Ward structures like Kempton Park are the heartbeat of NUSA’s mission. While the national leadership provides vision and advocacy, ward structures provide direct connection to the people.

The functions of the Kempton Park Ward will include:

Community Representation ~ Serving as the mouthpiece of Nigerians in Kempton Park.

Conflict Resolution ~ Mediating disputes among community members before they escalate.

Advocacy & Protection ~ Standing against xenophobic threats, police harassment and immigration challenges.

Empowerment Programs ~ Organizing workshops, training and youth initiatives for Nigerians.

Cultural Promotion ~ Hosting cultural festivals that showcase Nigerian heritage, strengthening identity while fostering integration with South Africans.

By empowering grassroots voices, NUSA ensures that no Nigerian feels abandoned in South Africa.

The Challenges Ahead.

While the event was a success, the new ward executives inherit enormous challenges. Nigerians in South Africa continue to face pressing issues such as:

Immigration hurdles and documentation delays.

Police profiling and harassment, often based on nationality.

Xenophobic tensions in some communities.

Economic instability affecting migrant businesses.

The need for youth mentorship to prevent involvement in crime.

The task before the new leadership is therefore not ceremonial but deeply practical. They must be proactive, innovative and courageous in tackling these realities.

A Call to Leadership.

In his charge to the new executives, President General Adv. Smart I. Nwobi reminded them:

“Leadership is not about titles or recognition; it is about service, sacrifice and the courage to act when others remain silent.”

This statement encapsulated the vision of NUSA, to raise leaders who are accountable, compassionate and resilient in protecting Nigerian dignity abroad.

NUSA’s Broader Mission.

The Kempton Park Ward inauguration fits into the broader vision of NUSA, which includes:

Advocating for Nigerian rights across South Africa.

Building strong diplomatic bridges between Nigeria and South Africa.

Promoting unity in diversity among Nigerians, irrespective of tribe, religion or social status.

Coordinating emergency response for Nigerians in distress.

Enhancing Nigeria’s image abroad by encouraging law-abiding conduct and excellence among Nigerians.

Over the years (since 2008), NUSA has been the first responder during crises; whether in xenophobic outbreaks, legal battles or welfare cases. The addition of stronger ward structures ensures this mission continues at a faster and more efficient pace.

Summing Up: Unity as a Way Forward.

The Kempton Park Ward election and inauguration marked a new dawn for Nigerians in Gauteng Province. It was not just a gathering; it was a statement of unity, democracy and progress. With respected leaders in attendance and newly elected executives ready to serve, Nigerians in Kempton Park can now look to the future with confidence.

As NUSA continues to strengthen its grassroots structures, the union stands taller as the legitimate voice of Nigerians in South Africa. The message is clear: Nigerians are UNITED, ORGANIZED and READY to CONTRIBUTE POSITIVELY to their host country while never forgetting their homeland.

The inauguration of the Kempton Park Ward will be remembered not just as an election, but as a milestone in the journey of Nigerian diaspora leadership; a reminder that when Nigerians come together in peace and unity, no challenge is insurmountable.

Strength in Unity: NUSA Kempton Park Ward Inauguration Sets Standard for Nigerian Diaspora Leadership.
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by saharaweeklyng.com

Introduction.
Published by saharaweeklyng.com

society

You Against Crime Founder Tayo Folorunsho Praises Winners of Abuja Schools Festival.

Published

on

You Against Crime Founder Tayo Folorunsho Praises Winners of Abuja Schools Festival.

 

Abuja, Nigeria – The maiden edition of the You Against Crime – Schools Festival 2026 Grand Finale has concluded, marking a significant milestone in youth engagement and crime prevention efforts across the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).

The event, held at the University of Abuja, brought together 78 secondary schools from the six Area Councils of Abuja, with the top six schools competing in the Grand Finale.

*Winners Emerge*

Tudunwada School, Bwari took the top spot, followed closely by The Golden Crest Royal in second place, and Government Secondary School, Kuje in third.

*CULTURE, THE CURE FOR CRIME*

The festival’s theme, “Culture, The Cure for Crime,” highlighted the importance of values, identity, mentorship, and positive engagement in preventing crime and shaping responsible citizenship among young people.

*DISTINGUISHED GUEST SPEAKERS*

Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, Chairman, Amnesty International, praised the initiative, saying, “This festival is a beacon of hope for our young people, promoting values and principles that can shape a brighter future for Nigeria.”

Aisha Mohammed, Head of Enlightenment & Re-orientation, Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, emphasized the importance of mentorship, stating, “Empowering young people with the right guidance and opportunities is key to preventing crime and building a stronger nation.”

*PARTNERSHIP AND SUPPORT*

The 2026 Grand Finale Edition was proudly sponsored by Civicx Technology Ltd Int’l, reinforcing a shared commitment to youth empowerment and crime prevention through cultural reorientation and innovation.

Tayo Folorunsho, Host & Founder, You Against Crime International, addressing the media and appealed to government agencies to support initiatives like this, targeting young minds early.

You Against Crime International is a movement advocating cultural change as a long-term solution to crime. The organization remains committed to advancing youth development, civic responsibility, and nation-building across Nigeria.

You Against Crime Founder Tayo Folorunsho Praises Winners of Abuja Schools Festival.

Continue Reading

society

TICP Customs Launches Paperless Regime, Warns Against False Declarations

Published

on

TICP Customs Launches Paperless Regime, Warns Against False Declarations

 

The Customs Area Controller of Tin Can Island Port Command of the Nigeria Customs Service (NCS), Comptroller Frank Onyeka, has launched a roadmap for the full implementation of a paperless regime at the command.

 

Onyeka disclosed this during a press briefing in Lagos, stating that the command was fully prepared for seamless digital operations ahead of the nationwide rollout scheduled for the second quarter of the year.

 

He described the engagement as the first in a series of consultations aimed at sensitising stakeholders on the strategies, operational framework and expectations under the new regime.

 

The controller commended the media for its constructive reportage since his assumption of office and sought continued collaboration to ensure the success of the initiative.

 

Presenting the command’s performance report, Onyeka said the Tin Can Island Command generated ₦609 billion in revenue in 2025, describing it as the highest in the history of the command.

 

He added that revenue collection rose from ₦116 billion recorded in January of the previous year to ₦145 billion in the corresponding period last month, representing an increase of over ₦29.9 billion.

 

Onyeka stated that his vision was to make the command known for trade efficiency, explaining that under the paperless regime, containers would be released without physical contact between Customs officers and clearing agents, provided declarations were accurate.

 

He credited the Comptroller-General of Customs, Bashir Adewale Adeniyi, for providing the leadership and strategic direction driving modernisation efforts across Customs formations nationwide.

 

The controller urged stakeholders to avoid false declarations and engage directly with the command to resolve concerns, emphasising that transparency and dialogue were essential to achieving efficient port operations.

 

He assured that consignments with clear scanning results and proper documentation would be released promptly, while those flagged by the risk management system would undergo physical examination, adding that the command would continue to collaborate with other agencies to reduce cargo dwell time and enhance port efficiency.

Continue Reading

society

Love on Display: Katie Price and Lee Put On a Public Show of Affection 

Published

on

Love on Display: Katie Price and Lee Put On a Public Show of Affection 

By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG 

British media personality Katie Price is once again at the center of tabloid and public attention after being photographed poolside with her new husband, Lee, in a display of affection that quickly circulated across entertainment platforms. The images, reportedly taken during a recent leisure outing at a private resort location in the United Kingdom, show the couple embracing and kissing beside a swimming pool, with Lee prominently displaying a tattoo tribute dedicated to Price.

 

The photographs, which surfaced in mid-February 2026 through British tabloid outlets, depict the couple appearing relaxed and affectionate. Lee, whose full name has been reported in sections of the UK press but who largely maintains a lower public profile compared to his wife, lifted his arm to reveal a visible tattoo said to be in honor of Price and a gesture widely interpreted as a public affirmation of their relationship.

 

What happened was straightforward but symbolically charged: a public display of affection between newlyweds, amplified by Price’s longstanding celebrity status. Where it happened (poolside at what sources describe as a private holiday setting) underscores the blending of personal life and public spectacle that has long defined Price’s media journey. During a recent February getaway placed it squarely within ongoing tabloid interest surrounding her latest marriage. Price, 47 and her new husband Lee, whose visible tribute tattoo became the focal point of the moment.

 

Celebrity culture scholars argue that public figures such as Price operate within a media ecosystem where visibility sustains relevance. “Modern celebrity is performative intimacy,” explains Professor Graeme Turner, a media and cultural studies scholar known for his work on celebrity culture. “Public displays of affection are not merely private acts; they are communicative gestures that reinforce brand identity and narrative continuity.” In Price’s case, her romantic relationships have long been interwoven with her public persona.

 

Price first rose to prominence in the late 1990s under the glamour model moniker “Jordan,” before transitioning into reality television, publishing and business ventures. Her personal life (including previous marriages and high-profile relationships) has frequently generated headlines in the British press. This latest marriage continues that pattern of intense scrutiny.

 

The tattoo tribute displayed by Lee is particularly significant in celebrity symbolism. Body art dedicated to a partner is often perceived as a declaration of permanence. Dr. Chris Rojek, emeritus professor of sociology and an authority on fame and public identity, has observed that “celebrity relationships are sustained as much through symbolic reinforcement as through private commitment. Visible tokens (rings, tattoos, coordinated appearances) function as public assurances.” In this case, the tattoo serves not merely as personal expression but as a visual narrative device in an already highly mediated relationship.

 

How the moment unfolded (casually but conspicuously) reflects the dynamics of contemporary celebrity coverage. Photographs were reportedly captured either by paparazzi stationed nearby or shared through controlled media access, a common practice in the British entertainment industry. Within hours, the images were republished by multiple outlets, accompanied by commentary on Price’s relationship history and ongoing legal and financial challenges, issues that have previously placed her under intense public scrutiny.

 

Despite recurring controversy throughout her career, Price remains a resilient media figure. Communications analyst Mark Borkowski has previously remarked in interviews that “Katie Price understands publicity better than most. Whether by design or instinct, she maintains a feedback loop with the press that keeps her culturally visible.” The poolside photographs appear to fit squarely within that established pattern of managed exposure and reactive media amplification.

 

Critically, there is no indication of misconduct, public disturbance or controversy tied directly to the poolside display itself. It was, by all verified accounts, a consensual and celebratory expression of affection between married adults. The wider attention it has generated speaks less to the act and more to the individuals involved; particularly Price’s enduring position within British popular culture.

 

For global audiences, the episode illustrates a broader truth about contemporary fame: private milestones often become public commodities. The marriage of Katie Price and Lee (and the symbolic tattoo that now marks it) has become another chapter in a life lived persistently under the camera’s gaze.

 

As celebrity culture continues to blur boundaries between intimacy and publicity, moments like this poolside embrace are no longer trivial snapshots. They are narrative events, reinforcing identity, commitment and brand continuity in equal measure.

Continue Reading

Cover Of The Week

Trending