June 2024 ACCOMPLISH

M A G A Z I N E 

JUNE 2024 

Edward 

Enninful 

British Vogue's 

Ghanaian Born 

Editor-in-Chief 

PRINCE 

HARRY'S 

RECENT VISIT 

TO NIGERIA 

AND THE 

Invictus 

Games 

AI Today & 

Tomorrow: 

Shaping 

a Brighter 

Nigerian Future 

Billionaire 

Ex-governors, 

Broken States' 

Treasuries 

Stevie Wonders, 

Meghan Markle, 

Others Are 

Finding Their 

Roots in Africa 

Abike Dabiri-Erewa: 

ON PRESS FREEDOM AND 

DIASPORA INTERVENTIONS 

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW

Contents 

June 2024 

Team 

EDITOR 

DIIYI WILLIAM-WEST 

CONTRIBUTING EDITOR 

HARRY CHOMS 

SENIOR CORRESPONDENTS 

IKENNA NGERE 

TOLULOPE AKINRULI 

SOCIAL MEDIA HANDLER 

MONICA EFEOTOR 

46 

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT CONSULTANTS 

NGOZI UKPAI 

BUSINESS ANALYST EXECUTIVE 

NGOZI EZE 

MARKETING DIRECTOR 

OGEHENETEGA DIAGBARE 

06 42 

CREATIVE DIRECTOR 

CHARLES KAMMA 

PUBLISHER / EDITOR IN CHIEF 

REMI DIAGBARE 

For advert enquiries, please contact 

Marketing Director, Ogehenetega, 

Remmy +44 7424 594773 

(Whatspp only) 

or email, accomplishentrepreneurng.com 

To reach the Editor, 

send your email to: 

editor@theaccomplishmagazine.com 

OUR VISION: 

To be the go-to publication for information and 

inspiration in pursuing life’s attainments. 

OUR MISSION: 

To profile and celebrate the achievements 

and lifestyle choices of outstanding leaders 

and influencers in business, manufacturing, 

agriculture, academia, administration, 

entertainment and innovation in Nigeria, Africa 

and, indeed, globally. 

FOLLOW US @ ENTREPRENEUR NG 

COVER 

10 Abike Dabiri-Erewa: 

On Press Freedom And 

Diaspora Interventions 

NIGERIA: BITS & BOBS 

4 Court Supports CBN, Orders 

Banks to Gather Customers' 

Social Media Handles 

& Other Stories 

FEATURE/ANALYSIS 

24 Stevie Wonders, Meghan 

Markle, Others Are Finding 

Their Roots in Africa 

26 Billionaire Ex-governors, 

Broken States' Treasuries 

28 Meet Zenith Bank’s First 

Female GMD, Adaora Umeoji 

30 PRINCE HARRY'S RECENT VISIT 

TO NIGERIA AND THE Invictus 

Games 

32 ETHICAL VALUES 

34 World Environment Day: 

Rising Beyond Policy 

Statements 

38 Biden, College Protests, Gaza, 

Rafah and 2024 Elections 

GLOBAL INFO DIGEST 

40 Why It's So Hard To Make 

Friends As An Adult 

& other stories 

DIASPORAN AFRICAN 

44 Edward Enningul: 

British Vogue's Ghanaian 

Born Editor-in-Chief 

REALTOR’S AVENUE 

62 3 Tips for Prosperity In Real 

Estate Investment 

THE INCUBATOR SERIES 

50 Should You Go Into 

Partnership

AFRICA RISING NEWS.... 

52 World Bank Halts Funding for 

Tanzania Tourism Initiative...& 

other stories... 

GLOBAL NEWS... 

54 Major Solar Storm Disrupts 

Musk's Starlink Satellites 

& other stories... 

TRAVEL & LEISURE 

62 5 Top Tourist 

Attractions in Rwanda 

AFRICAN STARTUP 

ANGEL by TD 

64 The Evolution of Angel 

Investing in Africa 

LIFESTYLE 

56 AI Today & Tomorrow - 

Shaping a Brighter Nigerian 

Future. 

58 ARTS & THE MASTERS - The 

Hay Wain by John Constable 

Exhibited in Bristol. 

60 Food & Wine - Turning 

Yoghurt into Rich Butter 

42 

From The Editor 

34 

57 

Finally, the June edition is here! 

This is one edition that called out 

for patience and calmness so 

loudly. The production process was 

hit by several unexpected glitches, 

including a life threatening situation, 

but our resolve to give our readers the 

usual quality read prevailed. 

In this edition, we have on our cover 

a woman best remembered for 

consistent empathy for people going 

through travails. From NTA to the 

House of Representatives and now 

as Chairman/CEO of Nigerians in 

Diaspora Commission (NiDCOM), Hon. 

Abike Dabiri-Erewa has remained a 

friend of the people. You will love to 

read her appreciative views about 

Nigerians in the diaspora and issues 

bothering on press freedom in 

Nigeria. 

Chief Victor Olewunne's "People 

As Priority In Ethical Governance: 

The Case of the Lagos to Calabar 

Superhighway" captures a majority 

of people's thoughts on how best to 

deliver the much-mouthed 'dividends 

of democracy'. Similarly, "Billionaire 

Ex-Governors, Broken States' 

Treasuries" by Dave Baro-Thomas 

should engender deep consideration 

of what to do with public office. 

We're so pleased to announce that 

a distinguished international figure 

joins Team Accomplish's writing crew! 

Tomi Davies (TD), fondly referred 

to as "Africa's Top Angel" kicks off 

his column with "The Evolution of 

Angel Investing in Africa: From 

Sector-Agnostic to Sector-Specific 

Strategies." You really need to read 

this piece! 

Accomplish Magazine joins in 

celebrating the resumption of 

Dr. Adaora Umeoji OON as Zenith 

Bank Plc's first female Group 

Managing Director. We wish an 

accomplishment-laden tenure! 

Due to circumstances beyond our 

control, there is no CEO Interview in 

this edition but it'll be back in the July 

edition. 

Our other regulars are in place. Enjoy! 

Disclaimer 

63 

• Please note that all photos used in this 

special digital edition of the ACCOMPLISH 

Magazine were sourced freely online. 

We maintains no rights over the images/ 

photos, while we have tried to give 

appropriate credit where due, we are 

aware some artistes were not credited. 

We remain committed to supporting 

intellectual property and creativity. 

© 2023 Tegali Communications 

• The opinions of contributors (people 

whose opinion we publish) are not the 

opinion of Accomplish Magazine or the 

opinion of the management or staff of 

Accomplish Magazine. 

DIIYI WILLIAM-WEST 

Editor 

: editor@theaccomplishmagazine.com

NIGERIA: 

BITS & BOBS 

By Ikenna Ngere 

BUSINESS AND FINANCE 

POLITICS 

Minimum Wage: FG 

and Labour to Discuss 

N48,000 Proposal 

The Federal Government's 

proposed N48, 000 national 

minimum wage will be the 

subject of renewed negotiations 

with organised labour and other 

stakeholders on Tuesday, May 21. 

Additionally, there are hints that 

the idea may be reviewed upward 

by the government. 

In a letter of invitation to labour 

leaders dated May 16, 2024, Alhaji 

Bukar Goni, the Chairman of the 

Tripartite Committee on National 

Minimum Wage, made this clear. 

• Damagum 

Court Prevents PDP 

from Ousting Acting 

Chairman Damagum 

The Peoples Democratic Party's 

attempt to remove Umar 

Court Supports CBN, 

Orders Banks to Gather 

Customers' Social 

Media Handles 

A new Central Bank of Nigeria 

(CBN) regulation requiring 

financial institutions to request 

and gather their clients' social 

media handles as part of the 

routine Know-Your-Customer 

process has been upheld by the 

Federal High Court in Lagos. 

The presiding judge, Justice 

Nnamdi Dimgba, declared in a 

decision on Thursday, May 16, that 

the regulation does not violate 

bank customers' right to privacy.. 

4 | www.theaccomplishmagazine.com

Damagum, its interim National 

Chairman, has been halted by the 

Federal High Court in Abuja. 

In a decision rendered on May 3 

and published in court records 

that news media had access 

to on May 8, the court ordered 

the respondents to refrain 

from selecting, appointing, or 

nominating a successor for 

Damagum until after the motion 

on notice has been heard and 

decided. 

Jonathan Claims 

Progressive Ideas He 

Championed Were 

Abolished After His Exit 

Goodluck Jonathan, the 

former president of Nigeria, 

claimed on Friday, May 10 that 

• Goodluck Jonathan 

several of the progressive 

policies he had implemented 

during his administration had 

been abandoned when he left 

office. 

Speaking in his capacity as 

Chairman at the occasion of 

the 25th anniversary 

celebration of Igbinedion 

University, Okada in Edo State, 

Jonathan, the President from 

2010 to 2015, made this 

statement. 

The former president noted 

that despite facing significant 

obstacles, he was able to 

enforce his will as the nation's 

leader and made sure that 

women were accepted to the 

Nigeria Defence Academy. 

Court Defers Judgment 

on Kogi Governor 

Election 

The Kogi State Governorship 

Election Petition Tribunal, 

seated in Abuja on Monday, 

May 13 postponed making a 

decision on the appeal brought 

up by the Social Democratic 

Party and its candidate for 

governor, Murtala Ajaka, 

challenging Usman Ododo's 

election win. 

Pius Akubo, the attorney for 

Ajaka, requested the tribunal to 

reject the respondents' 

submissions and uphold 

Ajaka's throughout today's 

sessions. 

As he begged the tribunal 

session to reject Ajaka's plea, 

Kanu Agabi, the Independent 

National Electoral 

Commission's attorney, 

informed the court that their 

final written address was dated 

and filed on May 2. 

ENTREPRENEURSHIP 

• Dangote 

Dangote Refinery 

Requests Two Million 

Barrels of US Oil – 

Report 

As it increases processing 

rates, Nigeria's recently built 

Dangote refinery in Lagos 

wants to buy millions of 

barrels of US crude oil over 

the course of the next year, 

according to a Bloomberg 

report published on Thursday, 

May 16th. 

The facility, per the report, 

has released a term tender 

for the procurement of two 

million barrels of West Texas 

Intermediate Midland crude 

every month for a period of 

twelve months beginning in July. 

DAMIAN 

IKENNA NGERE 

AUTHOR’S BIO 

Ikenna is a graduate of Physics 

and Education, who works as a 

freelance writer. He has interest in 

technology, humanity and sports. 

www.theaccomplishmagazine.com 

| 5

EXCLUSIVE INTERVIEW 

ABIKE 

DABIRI-EREWA: 

Connecting the Dots 

By Adebayo Afolabi 

Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa is a prominent Nigerian politician, media personality, 

and public servant who has made significant contributions to the 

development and welfare of Nigerians at home and abroad. She has held 

various positions of leadership and advocacy, earning her numerous awards and 

recognition. 

From her early days as a journalist to her impactful tenure in the House of 

Representatives and her current role as Chairman/CEO of the Nigerians in 

Diaspora Commission (NIDCOM), Dabiri-Erewa has consistently demonstrated 

leadership, dedication, and a passion for making a difference. 


COVER 

I'm 

so proud to 

be Nigerian. Look, 

we're still scratching the 

surface of who we are as 

a people. If, indeed, we get 

our people abroad to work 

with us back home, it 

will be huge. Nobody 

can stop us. 


| 7

COVER 

Early Career 

and Journalistic 

Achievements 

Before venturing into politics, Abike 

Dabiri-Erewa had a successful 

career in journalism. She worked 

as a reporter and presenter for 

the Nigerian Television Authority 

(NTA), where she covered various 

news beats and gained valuable 

experience in mass media and 

communication. Her expertise 

in journalism enabled her to 

effectively communicate with the 

public and advocate for social 

justice. 

Political Career 

and Legislative 

Achievements 

Dabiri-Erewa's political career 

began when she was elected 

as a member of the House 

of Representatives in 2003, 

representing Ikorodu Constituency 

in Lagos State. During her time in 

the Green Chamber, she served on 

several committees, including the 

Committee on Education, Women 

Affairs, and Diaspora Affairs. Her 

legislative achievements include 

sponsoring bills and motions that 

aimed to improve education, 

protect the rights of women, 

and address the concerns of 

Nigerians living abroad. 

One of her notable 

accomplishments was the 

establishment of the House 

Committee on Diaspora Affairs, 

which she chaired. Through this 

committee, she championed 

the cause of Nigerians in the 

diaspora and worked towards 

creating policies that would 

support their welfare and harness 

their potential for national 

development. Her efforts in this 

area laid the foundation for her 

future work in advocating for 

Nigerians abroad. 

Role as Senior 

Special Assistant 

to the President 

In 2015, President Muhammadu 

Buhari appointed Dabiri-Erewa 

as the Senior Special Assistant 

on Foreign Affairs and Diaspora. 

In this role, she continued her 

advocacy for Nigerians abroad, 

working on policies to support 

the Nigerian diaspora. Her efforts 

included addressing issues of 

consular assistance, diaspora 

engagement, and harnessing 

the potential of Nigerians 

living overseas for national 

development. 

During her tenure as Senior 

Special Assistant, Dabiri-Erewa 

played a key role in facilitating 

the evacuation of Nigerians from 

crisis-ridden countries such 

as Libya. She worked tirelessly 

to ensure their safe return 

and provided support for their 

reintegration into society. Her 

dedication to protecting the 

rights and welfare of Nigerians 

abroad earned her widespread 

recognition. 

Chairman/CEO 

of Nigerians 

in Diaspora 

Commission 

In November 2018, Dabiri-Erewa 

was appointed as the Chairman/ 

CEO of the Nigerians in Diaspora 

Commission (NIDCOM). Under 

her leadership, NIDCOM has 

focused on creating a sustainable 

platform for the engagement 

of Nigerians in the diaspora. 

The commission has worked 

on various initiatives to protect 

the rights of Nigerians abroad, 

promote investment opportunities 

in Nigeria, and encourage the 

diaspora to contribute to national 

development. 


COVER 

One of the notable initiatives 

implemented by NIDCOM under 

Dabiri-Erewa's leadership is the 

establishment of the Diaspora 

Investment Summit. This summit 

aims to attract investment 

from Nigerians living abroad 

by showcasing investment 

opportunities in key sectors of the 

Nigerian economy. Through this 

initiative, Dabiri-Erewa has been 

able to tap into the resources 

of Nigerians in the diaspora, 

fostering economic growth and 

development. 

Awards and 

Recognition 

Abike Dabiri-Erewa's contributions 

have been widely recognised, 

earning her numerous awards 

and honours. In recognition of 

her service to the nation, she was 

conferred with the National Honour 

of Officer of the Order of the Niger 

(OON). This prestigious award 

reflects her dedication and impact 

in public service. 

Additionally, Dabiri-Erewa's work 

in media and public service has 

earned her several accolades. 

She has received awards such 

as the African Voice Leadership 

Award, African Achievers Award 

for Excellence in Leadership, and 

African Role Model Award for 

Excellence in Public Service. These 

awards highlight her significant 

contributions to the Nigerian 

society and serve as a testament 

to her unwavering commitment to 

public service, social justice, and 

the welfare of Nigerians. 

Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa's career 

is marked by her outstanding 

achievements and relentless 

commitment to serving Nigerians 

at home and abroad. From her 

early days as a journalist to her 

impactful tenure in the House 

of Representatives and her 

current role as Chairman/CEO 

of NIDCOM, she has consistently 

demonstrated leadership, 

advocacy, and a passion for 

making a difference. 

As she continues her work, Mrs. 

Abike Dabiri-Erewa remains an 

inspiring figure dedicated to 

the progress and well-being of 

her fellow citizens. Her career 

accomplishments serve as an 

inspiration for future generations 

of Nigerians aspiring to make a 

positive impact on society. 


| 9

COVER 

Hon. Abike 

Dabiri-Erewa 

ON PRESS FREEDOM AND 

DIASPORA INTERVENTIONS 

By Harry Choms 

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa has played 

a pivotal role in strengthening 

the bonds between Nigeria and 

its diaspora. As the Chairman of 

the Nigerians in Diaspora Commission 

(NiDCOM), she has tirelessly addressed 

the concerns of Nigerians abroad and 

harnessed their potential for national 

development. With NiDCOM marking its 

5th anniversary, Accomplish Magazine 

had the privilege of discussing with Hon. 

Dabiri-Erewa the Commission's journey, 

achievements, challenges, and, most 

importantly, the indispensable role of the 

Nigerian diaspora in shaping the nation's 

future. 

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, a renowned 

journalist and politician, has a rich and 

diverse background in both the public and 

private sectors. Her story is one of resilience, 

dedication, and unwavering commitment 

to her country. From her early days as a 

reporter to her current role as the head of the 

Nigerian in Diaspora Commission, Dabiri- 

Erewa has consistently proven herself to be 

a significant and capable figure in Nigerian 

public life. 

Abike Kafayat Oluwatoyin Dabiri-Erewa 

OON, born on October 10, 1962, formerly 

served as a representative for the Ikorodu 

Constituency (Lagos State), in Nigeria's 

Federal House of Representatives. During the 

1990s, Abike Dabiri-Erewa was among the 

"media celebrities" Nigerians met and fell 

in love with as she co-anchored the thenpopular 

"NTA Newsline" on Sunday evenings 

at 9 p.m. She was a self-driven young 

woman covering social justice and poverty 

stories from behind-the-scenes - touching 

on heart-breaking human-interest tales. 

Her love for giving back and empathising 

with the sufferings of the underprivileged 

took her to the House of Representatives, 

where she served for twelve years (three 

tenures). We saw her fervently supporting 

and sponsoring several important bills and 

motions during her time there, including 

the Nigerian Diaspora Commission Bill, the 

Nigerian Infant Health Welfare Bill, and the 

Freedom of Information Bill. 

One fundamental right necessary for a 

democracy to function properly is freedom 

of information or FOI. By giving the general 

public access to government data, FOI 

promotes accountability and openness. 

In this interview with Accomplish Magazine, 

Dabiri-Erewa spoke on the significance of 

FOI and its influence on government and the 

Nigeria in Diaspora Commission, among 

other issues. 


COVER 

I 

believe a 

lot more will be 

achieved in the next 

10 years. We're building 

trust between Nigeria 

and the diaspora. 


| 11

COVER 

As NiDCOM celebrates its 

anniversary, what philosophical 

insights can you share about 

the commission's journey and 

its impact on Nigerians in the 

diaspora? 

Dabiri-Erewa: As NiDCOM 

celebrates its 5th anniversary, 

I think the first thing is that 

diaspora issues are now on the 

front burner. You can't talk about 

Nigeria without talking about its 

diaspora. You can't talk about 

Nigeria without celebrating its 

diaspora, which has remitted over 

$20 billion annually to Nigeria. 

Beyond that, Nigerians in the 

diaspora are now massively 

investing in their country: 

healthcare, ICT, education, the 

digital economy, and many 

other areas, including the food 

business. So, we have been able 

to put diaspora issues on the front 

burner, and as I speak with you, 

we have many programmes for 

the diaspora. The Diaspora Day is 

set aside to celebrate Nigerians in 

the diaspora, so it's a special day 

- July 25. 

We have the Nigeria Diaspora 

Investment Summit which takes 

place in November every year. 

The diasporans come together to 

see where they can invest in their 

country. Programmes like the 

Diaspora Mortgage Scheme are 

coming up, where they can get a 

$50 million mortgage to own their 

homes. The Diaspora Housing 

Scheme, in partnership with the 

Federal Housing Authority, allows 

them to directly buy homes in any 

of the 36 states of Nigeria. The 

Diaspora Data Portal has been 

set up, and we encourage them 


COVER 

to register on the data portal so 

that we can gather data, such 

as they you are and what they're 

doing. 

How has NiDCOM transformed 

the relationship between 

Nigeria and its diaspora since its 

inception? 

Dabiri-Erewa: We've been 

trying to build more trust between 

the diaspora and its country. 

When you know that there's 

somebody you can call when 

something happens, for good 

or for bad, that is what NiDCOM 

has been able to do. There are 

even many interventions that 

are not in the media, but when 

you know that, oh, something's 

affecting me, there's somebody 

I can call, there are people that 

will listen to me, I think that is a 

major platform to build trust. It's 

still ongoing. It's a continuous 

process, but we've been able to, 

to a large extent, build the trust 

of the diaspora and their country 

by being able to (make them) 

know that their country is there for 

them, for good or for bad. 

We did a publication, "660", where 

we celebrated 600 Nigerians 

when Nigeria turned 60, but guess 

what? If we wanted to do 60,000, 

we would have done it. So, then, 

we celebrate Nigerians excelling. 

We have to know what our people 

are doing. 

In America, they are described as 

the most educated immigrants 

anywhere in the world. There's 

nowhere in the world that 

Nigerians are not excelling. We 

try to bring this to bear on our 

country, and there are regular 

programmes - NTA has, Channels 

Television has, and we hope, 

hopefully, we keep using the 

media to celebrate who we 

are as a people; the very best 

anywhere in the world! 

So, NiDCOM has been the bridge 

between Nigeria and its diaspora, 

and we continue to do that. As I 

We did a 

publication, 

"660", where we 

celebrated 600 

Nigerians when 

Nigeria turned 60, 

but guess what? 

If we wanted to do 

60,000, we would 

have done it. 

said, we are the embassy here in 

Nigeria. The only challenge is we 

do not have a proper office. We 

hope we can have a Diaspora 

House, where diasporans can 

come in and get any information 

they want; you know, get many 

things done. 

That is the hope we have, 

subsequently; moving on. 

What challenges has NiDCOM 

faced in bridging the gap 

between Nigeria and its global 

diaspora? 

Dabiri-Erewa: The major 

challenge was even the 

challenge with the Ministry of 

Foreign Affairs itself - finding a 

new agency. "Are they taking our 

job?" "What's going on?" That was 

a big challenge, but we could 

resolve it because the Minister 

of State, Foreign Affairs, Amb. 

Osubre, was designated to work 

directly with us, and we thank him 

for making the job easier for us. 

That was a major, number one 

challenge of... "Oh, it's a new thing. 

What are they up to?" But today, 

we're an agency in the Ministry of 

Foreign Affairs, working very well 

with the ministry, ambassadors, 

and all that - two main problems. 

A major problem is the lack of 

office accommodation. We still 

don't have a suitable office space, 

but I believe that under President 

Bola Ahmed Tinubu, we will have 

one that we'll call the Diaspora 

House. 

Funding is an issue. I would love 

to get up today and attend to 

every problem on our table, but 

we don't have the funds. We bend 

over backwards, think outside 

the box to attend to as much 

as we can and use technology 

to a large extent. I mean, today, 

you don't have to be physically 

present to solve issues, and we've 

been able to solve quite a lot. 

We receive thousands of petitions 

that we resolve. Some we 

know we can't resolve because 

they're difficult; some we just 

cannot, but there are quite a 

number of solutions. Then, there 

are programmes designed 

specifically for the diaspora, as I 

answered earlier. 

Then, we want to target the third 

generation of Nigerians through 

the Home Strings Programme. I'm 

so excited about how the younger 

generation of Nigerians in the 

diaspora are so willing to do 

things back home. This December 

will be, wow; a lot of things we will 

do during the home coming. 

They even want to give back. 

Philanthropy, charity, investments, 

but the thing is, we are there to 

guide them. I think that is very 

important. 

Take the show on housing... 

I'm not saying it still doesn't 

happen, but you give somebody 

your money to build a house, 

it disappears. So one of the 

earliest things we'll do is try to 

guide them. We're also having a 

Diaspora Housing Programme for 

them; a platform where you can 

click a button and be sure of your 

actions. So, you know, I think we've 

been able to be a bridge between 

them and their home country in 

many regards. 


| 13

COVER 

How do you envision the role of 

the Nigerian diaspora in shaping 

Nigeria's future over the next 

decade? 

Dabiri-Erewa: There is a whole 

lot that the diaspora will do, and 

they're already doing it. Look, in 

the last few years, at least, I can 

count about ten hospitals set up 

by the diaspora. In education, 

like I said, ICT, and food business, 

they are investing in their 

country. They're coming back. 

And, I'm even more impressed 

with the young ones doing 

many things back home - even 

giving philanthropy investments 

combined. 

I believe a lot more will be 

achieved in the next 10 years. 

We're building trust between 

Nigeria and the diaspora. We'll 

build on that trust, continue 

to build the embassy here, 

and continue to work with and 

engage with them. Twenty three 

billion US dollars in remittances is 

not a joke! 

And, that is the informal one; yet 

many informal remittances are 

not even being captured. So, the 

diaspora is about human capital 

development, and I'm sure the 

impact will continue to be felt in 

the next few years. 

We've been trying 

to build more 

trust between the 

diaspora and its 

country. When 

you know that 

there's somebody 

you can call 

when something 

happens, for good 

or for bad 

What philosophical values 

underpin NiDCOM's efforts to 

connect Nigerians abroad with 

their homeland? 

Dabiri-Erewa: The number 

one philosophical thing is that 

it's home. It's your country. And, 

as the saying goes, no matter 

how far a river flows, it cannot be 

cut off from its source. It's home, 

period. How do we make home a 

better place? How do you remain 

proud of making your home a 

better place? And you know, for 

many of them who Nigeria has 

actually trained, I think they are 

excited that now they have an 

agency to deal with; a one-stop 

agency to talk to, and an agency 

created to engage with them. So 

I think that has helped. 

Also, there are presidential 

diaspora engagements where 

Mr. President meets with them 

on the streets abroad. Then, 

when they come home, like I 

said, there's the Diaspora Day 

and many activities. Then, we 

link them up with relevant MDAs 

they want to meet. Now, we have 

36 focal persons in the diaspora. 

Each state has a focal person. 

Then, ministries are all supposed 

to have desks and key ministries. 

Right now, we have (for) health. 

Health has a diaspora. Health 

now has the Minister of State 

for Health, Dr. Tunji Alausa, 

who is fully in charge of the 

diaspora. For instance, 70% of 

the association of black doctors 

in America are Nigerians.So, we 

are talking of serious human 

capital here. And, we need to 

take it very, very seriously. In 

EFCC, when complaints of "Oh, 

I was defrauded" and all that 

(happen), it's taken care of. 

The Minister of Industries, Trade 

and Investment has what the 

minister calls the 

Catalytic Desk where you know 

all issues about investments - 

and all that can be addressed 

by a whole department or unit. 

And we keep on; hopefully, most 

MDAs will have it just before the 

Diaspora Day. That's our goal. 

What lessons can other nations 

learn from NiDCOM's approach 

to diaspora engagement? 

Dabiri-Erewa: When NiDCOM 

was set up, we tried to learn from 

other countries, particularly India. 

Israel, too, has a gift with this 

diaspora (issue). But we chose 

India as the number 1 country. 

We visited India. 

We attended the Diaspora Day. 

I was the first non-ethnic Indian 

to speak at the Indian Diaspora 

Day. We tried to learn from nine 

countries from Africa, to see how 

we engage our diaspora. We 

also work with our partners, the 

International Organisation for 

Migration and ICMPD. 

Now, we have USAID and work 

with some embassies with a 

large diaspora population. So 

countries are coming to say, look, 

we like what you're doing, we 

want to do the same thing. 

In what ways has the diaspora's 

contribution influenced socioeconomic 

development in 

Nigeria? 

Dabiri-Erewa: In a whole lot 

of ways. Let's even talk about 

just helping to build capacity. 

Our doctors are coming home 

on medical missions, and it's 

getting stronger. Next year will be 

the big one. They're having their 

convention in Lagos, Nigeria. In 

other words, all doctors abroad, 

particularly from America, will 

be coming home to give back. 

What they gave back this year 

was worth millions of naira and 

dollars and 

equipment. So, we have a lot of 

them doing capacity building. 

And, then we have, as I've 

said before, the remittances, 

which are huge. But beyond 

remittances, there's a lot more. 

We have a particular lady who 

was in Benue and comes every 

year to train. And, there are many 

like that; I'll have to, after this, get 

them specifics. But many of them 


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www.theaccomplishmagazine.com | 15

COVER 

are doing that, even without any 

intervention or even wanting to 

be known. So, a lot of them are 

giving back, a lot of them are 

investing, and a lot of them will 

do more. 

We are just building a bridge 

between them and home, and 

we'll encourage them to continue 

to do more. 

What strategies has NiDCOM 

employed to address the unique 

challenges faced by Nigerians 

abroad? 

Dabiri-Erewa: Many 

challenges are faced by our 

people abroad. But I think 

number one is being able to be 

accessible. We have a portal, we 

have means of communication, 

we have handles where when we 

get complaints, we treat them. 

Our legal department treats 

petitions all the time. For those 

who want to register their 

companies with CAC, you go 

through it, and we have to give 

you a letter of no objection. And, 

the essence is to know that you 

are truly a diaspora company. So 

basically, being accessible is one 

major strategy we have used. 

Just be accessible. We're just a 

phone call away, a mail away, 

dealing with all these issues. And 

then, like I said, we have brought 

the programmes together. I'm 

excited about what we call 

the Home Strings Programme, 

specifically targeted at the 

second and third generation 

of Nigerians abroad. And, we 

have a strong team. We have an 

organogram. We have various 

departments that deal with 

various issues. So, we hope that 

better funding and even having 

our own structure will help a lot. 

Right now, we're just moving from 

here to there, but the number 

one approach is to be accessible. 

You come in, and you can reach 

us, and we can solve problems 

and work together. Then, we 

introduce various programmes in 


COVER 

I have 

encountered 

several obstacles 

in my work as 

a woman in 

leadership, such 

as discrimination, 

gender bias, and 

preconceptions. 

I overcome 

these difficulties, 

nevertheless, 

by staying 

committed to 

my objectives, 

self-assured, and 

focused. 

the diaspora. This year's first one 

will be in September - in Canada, 

where we will get all Nigerians 

together and celebrate ourselves. 

It's going to be powerful, 

powerful, powerful. Our culture, 

our heritage, our people; we'll 

celebrate ourselves. 

As Chairman of NiDCOM, what 

is your vision for the future of 

Nigeria's diaspora relations? 

Dabiri-Erewa: Well, I hope the 

diaspora will be able to vote. But 

in voting, we have to define who 

a diaspora is. As a diasporan, 

legally, you are living in another 

man's country, you are paying 

tax, you have an address, and 

you have what you are doing. 

Not that you get on a boat and 

go illegally and live illegally in 

another man's country. So, we 

must define what a diasporan is. 

So, I hope that the diaspora will 

be able to vote. I also hope that 

what they do back home will 

be more enhanced, because, 

ultimately, this is their country. 

No matter what happens, this is 

home. So, subsequently, I want 

the same message to Nigerians 

at home - build your country. 

How has your previous 

experience in government and 

media influenced your work with 

NiDCOM? 

Dabiri-Erewa: Oh! Whatever 

experiences you have in life 

shape whatever you do. So, my 

experience as a broadcaster 

and as a parliamentarian has 

influenced what I'm doing. And 

incidentally, you know, when I was 

in parliament, I was the Chairman 

of the Diaspora Committee. 

It was described as a useless 

committee. However, my attitude 

to work, which was influenced by 

my attitude to work even while 

I was at the NTA, was to listen, 

do whatever you're doing, and 

just put in your best. So, working 

with a few honourable members 

who showed that interest; quite 

a number were not interested. It's 

like, what is diaspora? Useless, 

committee. 

But look at what it is today. 

And working with the team 

and some of our people in the 

diaspora, we realised we needed 

a diaspora agency. I needed a 

one-stop agency to deal with 

this enormous human capital 

development. So, I sponsored 

a bill for an act to establish the 

Nigerian in Diaspora Commission. 

The bill was not signed into 

law before I left parliament. 

Still, Honorable Joan Mrakpor 

from Delta State took it up. She 

approached her (colleagues) 

because you need somebody 

who believes in it. Eventually, it 

was signed into law, and then in 

the Senate, Senator Rozoko took it 

up, and it was passed into law. 

Incidentally, when sponsoring 

that bill, I never imagined being 

the pioneer chairman, but here I 

am today. President Buhari made 

me the pioneer chairman of the 

Diaspora Commission, so that's 

the history. 

What has been the most 

rewarding aspect of your career 

so far? 

Dabiri-Erewa: Most rewarding 

is that somebody taps you on the 

shoulder and says, "Listen, you 

don't know me, but you did this for 

me. You don't know me, but you 

helped out. You don't know me, 

but I'm so grateful. You don't know 

me, but this happened." I think 

that's the most rewarding thing 

you can do. And you know, we've 

had a lot of interventions. I mean, 

you can't imagine. We give a face 

to receiving people with dignity, 

no matter their circumstances. 

You're in Nigeria; you're coming 

back. I remember the first set that 

came in from South Africa; I was 

the SSA to the president then. I 

didn't receive one kobo but I ran 

around to ensure that... And, these 

people are traumatised, when 

they come - what will happen? 

So I could run around and get 

support from the private sector 

- MTN, MultiChoice, and Lagos 

State Governor. I think Airtel also 

came on board. And we just said, 

listen, when they come, we give 

them food, drinks, and money! 

I think about 40,000 naira each. 

And Gov. Sanwaolu was so, so 

supportive. You know, it was like 

giving a human face to such 

things. It has never happened. 

Subsequently, that became the 

norm. I mean, no matter what, 

you're coming to your country, 

and you've been traumatised. 

So, how do we receive you? Then, 

the message of "Listen, just try to 

do the right thing." So, I'm happy 

about that. 

Almost about nine countries have 

come to benchmark NiDCOM; 

to see how Nigeria is engaging 

with its diaspora. We're the first 

country to have a full commission 

for the diaspora issues. But, most 

importantly, it's about human 

capital development. Nobody will 


| 17

COVER 

celebrate us but ourselves. And 

our message is this: Nigerians at 

home, work with Nigerians in the 

diaspora to build this country. 

Nobody will tell our stories but 

ourselves. Give me one Nigerian 

who is doing badly and I'll give 

you 10,000 who are doing great 

things. Over the last five years, 

we've been able to develop these 

programmes and ensure that the 

diaspora becomes part of the 

policies and programmes of their 

home country. 

Now, a major issue is diaspora 

voting, which is very, very 

important. We hope that with the 

National Assembly amending 

the constitution, they will amend 

the section to make it possible 

for the diaspora to vote. I'm not 

saying vote immediately. What 

I'm saying is that you are not 

going to amend the constitution 

every year. So, when you amend 

the constitution, make it possible 

for the diaspora to vote when 

INEC feels that the infrastructure is 

ready. And, let it be peculiar to us. 

My strong 

support for press 

freedom and the 

implementation of 

Nigeria's Freedom 

of Information 

Act stems from 

my background 

as a journalist 

and former 

politician. Nigerian 

press freedom 

currently stands 

in a precarious 

position. 

In Brazil or one country, you can't 

vote if you have not been to the 

country in the last four years or so. 

So, there will be rules to it, and 

then we have to define who a 

diasporan is. Who is a diasporan 

that is eligible to vote? And one 

of the things is data. Now, with 

NiDCOM having a data portal, 

it makes it easier. Those are a 

few things we have done or are 

planning to do. 

Another rewarding thing is that I 

travel around and see our people. 

I'm so proud to be Nigerian. Look, 

we're still scratching the surface 

of who we are as a people. If, 

indeed, we get our people abroad 

to work with us back home, it will 

be huge. Nobody can stop us. 

That's very rewarding for me; 

meeting amazing people, 

celebrating them, engaging with 

them and knowing that we share 

the same genes as Nigerians 

is very fulfilling. And then, being 

able to resolve problems. I mean, 

recently, some guy was duped. 

He was trying to get a property 

in Lagos, and he was treated 

badly. We resolved many cases 

like that. So, being able to make 

an impact and a difference is 

very important. Then, the friends 

I've made in the diaspora. In fact, 

there's quite a lot of amazing men 

and women I'm so glad I met in 

the course of doing my work. 

How does NiDCOM handle cases 

where Nigerians in the diaspora 

face discrimination or legal 

issues in their host countries? 

Dabiri-Erewa: This is still tough, 

but we work with our missions 

abroad. Don't forget that we're 

an agency; we're not a ministry. 

There's a limit to what we can 

do. For instance, if something 

happens in a particular country, I 

can't talk to the minister; we have 

to get our minister to talk to his 

counterpart. But we work with 

our missions in countries; we put 

heads together on a lot of issues. 


COVER 

One is now being resolved in the 

UK and some students. So, we 

work with our missions abroad. 

And that's the first thing: call on 

them and work together. 

But we're hoping that as the law 

setting NiDCOM states, we'll have 

continental offices. In the UK now, 

there are about eight diaspora 

programmes. How can we attend 

if we're not there? So we're hoping 

we can have our continental 

offices. In fact, it's not in parallel 

with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs 

at all. In fact, we work with the 

ministry. So, the number one 

thing is we work with our missions 

abroad. There's no case we can 

resolve without a mission abroad. 

We talk to them, put heads 

together, and see how we can 

resolve it. We have our roles to 

play. They play their role, we play 

our role, but jointly, we're able to 

resolve quite a number of issues. 

There have been criticisms 

about NiDCOM's effectiveness in 

addressing the issues faced by 

Nigerians abroad. How do you 

respond to these criticisms? 

Dabiri-Erewa: If you are 

specific, then I know how to 

address it. I mean, if you are 

arrested for drugs and you are 

locked up for drugs and you 

come to NIDICOM and say get me 

out. How? 

So, you need to be specific about 

when you say effectiveness. And 

like I said, NIDICOM works with 

the missions in these countries to 

solve these problems. But there 

are some problems. 

We went to Indonesia, right? 

Twenty four Nigerians on death 

row. We went to beg for them. 

And Indonesia says it's our law 

and they killed four of them. We 

went to Libya. I wrote to President 

Buhari that we needed a massive 

evacuation, and we brought 

them back. Nigeria has brought 

over 10,000 back. An international 

migration organisation has been 

bringing them back before the 

recommendation for a massive 

return. But guess what? They still 

go back. And when you return, 

you come again and say, "Oh, 

we're in trouble!" Whose fault? 

As much as IOM brings (them) 

back regularly... Even they are 

getting tired. So, there has to 

be massive awareness of the 

dangers of irregular migration. 

So when you say effectiveness, if 

you're specific, you can answer 

those questions. There are so 

many cases we've dealt with, 

but there are some that we can't 

answer. Some are not even under 

our purview. We're an agency 

under the Ministry of Foreign 

Affairs, and we have specific rules 

and responsibilities. 

But some believe that, oh, we 

have to do everything. We'll try, 

but we can't do what is not in 

our power to do or overstretch 

our bounds. So, if you're more 

specific, we can address those 

particular issues. But I know that 

there's a lot more to do. There are 

challenges of funding and proper 

accommodation, but life is about 

overcoming those challenges. But 

the thing is NIDCOM at 5, there's 

no question of whether it should 

exist or not. The question is, how 

do we strengthen it? 

As a vastly experienced 

journalist and former legislator, 

you are among the people who 

championed the enactment 

of the Freedom of Information 

Act in Nigeria. What are your 

thoughts on the state of press 

freedom in Nigeria today? 

Dabiri-Erewa: My strong 

support for press freedom and 

the implementation of Nigeria's 

Freedom of Information Act 

stems from my background as 

a journalist and former politician. 

Nigerian press freedom currently 

stands in a precarious position. 

Although there have been some 

recent improvements, issues 

including government censorship, 

journalists' harassment, and the 

propagation of false information 

persist. Upholding and 

safeguarding journalists' freedom 

to report without fear of retaliation 

is a crucial responsibility of the 

government. 

Have you encountered any 

challenges regarding Freedom 

of Information (FOI) requests 

during your time in government 

or at NiDCOM? 

Dabiri-Erewa: We answered 

the only FOI request we received. 

We did. And that was it. I will not 

shy away from any FOI request. 

But it has to be properly done 

and done as required by law. So 

I don't have a problem with that. 

And I think more Nigerians should 

use the FOI law properly, not 

mischievously. 

How do you balance your 

professional life with your 

personal commitments? 

Dabiri-Erewa: Well, it's tough 

for a woman, but you must try to 

balance. You may not get 50-50 

a lot of times but work at it. For 

me, home comes first. That's it. 

Family first. But you work hard. 

And there's something else to 

give... You see me go to many 

activities but I still spend much 

time at home. When I'm not 

working, I'm home basically. So 

you have to balance. It's difficult 

for women, but we have to do 

it. But for me, it has to be family 

first. And, then, every opportunity 

to take a break, to rest, take care 

of yourself. Home is a place of 

peace and relaxation for me. So, I 

put my family first. 

How can citizens and civil 

society organisations contribute 

to promoting FOI and press 

freedom in Nigeria? 

Dabiri-Erewa: Well, in Nigeria, 

the advancement of free speech 

and press freedom is greatly 

aided by the participation of 

citizens and civil society groups. 

By pressing for openness and 

transparency in governance 

and holding the government 

responsible, they may achieve 

this. They can spread the 

word about the significance 

of press freedom and the FOI 


COVER 

Act by planning campaigns, 

demonstrations, and public 

awareness campaigns. 

Are there any specific policies 

or reforms you would advocate 

for in order to strengthen FOI 

legislation in the country? 

Dabiri-Erewa: I think that 

in order to make Nigeria's FOI 

law stronger, the Act should be 

properly carried out and that 

the government proactively 

notifies the public of information. 

In addition, provisions for 

whistleblower-protection and 

penalties for individuals who 

obstruct the FOI Act's execution 

are necessary. 

What motivated you to 

transition from media to politics 

and, later, to focus on diaspora 

affairs? 

Dabiri-Erewa: My desire 

to effect change inside the 

government drove me to 

move from the media into 

politics. I realised that in order 

to represent the interests of 

the people, proactive and 

dedicated personnel were 

required. Realising the important 

contributions Nigerians in 

the diaspora make to their 

country's development led me to 

concentrate on diaspora matters. 

As a woman in leadership, what 

challenges have you faced in 

your career, and how did you 

overcome them? 

Dabiri-Erewa: I have 

encountered several 

obstacles in my work as a 

woman in leadership, such as 

discrimination, gender bias, and 

preconceptions. I overcome 

these difficulties, nevertheless, 

by staying committed to my 

objectives, self-assured, and 

focused. I also made sure I had 

mentors and a solid support 

network around me. 

What advice would you give 

to young women aspiring to 

leadership positions in Nigeria? 

Dabiri-Erewa: Young women 

in Nigeria who want to be in 

leadership roles should be brave, 

strong, and tenacious, in my 

opinion. They should look to other 

women in leadership positions 

for support and mentorship, and 

they shouldn't be scared to stand 

up and establish themselves. 

Can you share with us some of 

the most memorable moments 

from your time in the Federal 

House of Representatives? 

Dabiri-Erewa: The passing 

of important laws, having 

the chance to represent my 

constituents, and interacting with 

other lawmakers from across the 

nation are some of the highlights 

of my tenure in the Federal House 

of Representatives. 

Aside from the Freedom of 

Information Act, what other 

initiatives did you champion 

during your tenure as the 

Chairman of the House 

Committee on Media & 

Publicity? 

Dabiri-Erewa: Other causes 

I care deeply about are youth 

empowerment, gender equality, 

and good governance in addition 

to the Freedom of Information Act. 

To guarantee the nation's general 

development and advancement, 

these are important challenges 

that must be resolved. 

What is your last word for 

Nigerians in the Diaspora? 

Dabiri-Erewa: My last word 

for Nigerians in the diaspora 

is home is home. What kind of 

home do you want to build? If 

you're waiting for perfection and 

El Dorado before you contribute 

your quota, you may have to wait. 

That's not a good way to look 

at it. So, just work with Nigerians 

at home; let's build this country 

together. 

We will try to play our role as the 

bridge between the diaspora and 

the home country, but home will 

always be home. I'm so excited 

that a lot of people, particularly 

the younger ones, are so eager 

to come home; do a lot of things 

back home. The country you are 

in was built by the people there. 

This is your own country; it's you 

and I that will build it together. So, 

my message for Nigerians in the 

diaspora is let's join hands and 

build our beautiful country. 

We can't be talking about 

potentials. Let's realise those 

potentials. And it's not about 

government. It's about you, me, 

and every individual playing their 

own role. Somebody asked me 

how come Nigerians behave in 

a different way outside, and then 

they come to this country (and 

behave a different way).... A lot of 

things are wrong; not because 

they're corrupt, but because there 

are no sanctions. If there are 

sanctions and rules are followed 

properly, everybody will fall in line. 

So, Nigerians in diaspora, this 

is your home. You have the 

commission, your embassy in 

Nigeria. Let's work together and 

we can achieve a whole lot. 

Hon. Abike Dabiri-Erewa's 

dedication to fostering a 

strong connection between 

Nigeria and its diaspora is 

evident in her tireless efforts 

and innovative initiatives. 

Through NiDCOM, she has not 

only addressed the concerns 

of Nigerians abroad but has 

also harnessed their potential 

to contribute to the country's 

development. As we look 

to the future, her vision and 

leadership continue to inspire 

and pave the way for a more 

united and prosperous Nigeria. 

* Additional report by Tolulope Akinruli 


COVER 

Home 

is a place 

of peace and 

relaxation for me. 

So, I put my 

family first. 


Picture 

• Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, together with 

Super Eagles Captain, Ahmed Musa. 

• Abike Dabiri-Erewa with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu 

• Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa with Richard 

Branson personally overseeing his Virgin 

Atlantic enterprise at the Heathrow lounge 

• Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa with Adebanke 

Olayiwola, Nigeria’s first female Dreamlifter pilot 


• Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa on an official visit to the International 

Organisation for Migration (IOM) Headquarters in Abuja - with 

Mr. Laurent de Boeck, Chief of Mission to the Federal Republic of 

Nigeria at IOM; Mr. Kingsley Aikins, Founder of the Networking 

• Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa with Harry and Meghan 

• A photo of Mrs. Abike Dabiri-Erewa, 

the NiDCOM boss, on a courtesy visit 

to His Excellency, Amb. Yusuf Maitama 

Tuggar, the Honourable Minister of 

Foreign Affairs 

• The NiDCOM CEO, Mrs. Dabiri-Erewa, during a 

courtesy visit to the Indian High Commissioner, 

Shri Gangandharan Balasubramania, and his 

team at the Indian High Commission in Abuja. 

• Mrs Abike Dabiri-Erewa with the 

First Lady of Imo State, Mrs. Chioma 

Uzodinma, during an All Progressives 

Congress (APC) function 


| 23

FEATURE / ANALYSIS 

STEVIE WONDERS, 

MEGHAN MARKLE, 

OTHERS ARE FINDING 

THEIR ROOTS IN AFRICA 

By Diiyi William-West 

In recent years, the trend 

of individuals tracing their 

roots back to Africa has 

gained significant traction. 

Prominent figures such as 

Stevie Wonder and Meghan 

Markle have publicly shared 

their experiences of discovering 

their African heritage. This 

phenomenon reflects a growing 

global interest in Africa's rich 

history and cultural heritage. 

In this essay, we will explore 

the historical context, key 

figures, impact, and influential 

individuals in this trend of finding 

roots in Africa. 

Historical Context: 

The desire to connect with 

one's ancestral roots is not new. 

Throughout history, people have 

sought to understand their origins 

and heritage. However, the 

current trend has been shaped 

by various factors, including 

advancements in technology 

that make it easier to trace one's 

genealogy, increased awareness 



of the significance of diversity 

and inclusion, and a growing 

interest in African culture and 

history. The legacy of colonization 

and the transatlantic slave trade 

have also played a role in driving 

individuals to explore their African 

heritage. 

Key Figures: 

Stevie Wonder, the legendary 

singer-songwriter, made 

headlines when he revealed that 

he had traced his ancestry back 

to Africa. His journey of selfdiscovery 

inspired many others 

to embark on a similar quest. 

Meghan 

Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, 

also made headlines when she 

shared her experience of finding 

her African roots. These highprofile 

individuals have helped to 

bring attention to the importance 

of understanding one's heritage 

and have sparked a broader 

conversation about identity and 

belonging. 

Impact: 

The trend of finding roots in Africa 

has had a profound impact on 

individuals, communities, and 

society at large. For many people, 

discovering their African heritage 

has been a transformative 

experience, providing a sense of 

connection and belonging. It has 

also challenged stereotypes and 

misconceptions about Africa, 

highlighting the diversity and 

richness of the continent's cultures 

and histories. By embracing their 

African roots, individuals are 

reclaiming their identities and 

challenging traditional notions of 

race and ethnicity. 

Influential Individuals: 

Several influential individuals 

have contributed to the field of 

finding roots in Africa, including 

genealogists, historians, and 

cultural experts. Henry Louis 

Gates Jr., a renowned scholar 

and host of the PBS series 

"Finding Your Roots," has 

played a significant role in 

helping people trace their 

ancestry back to Africa. 

Through his work, Gates 

has brought attention 

to the importance of 

understanding one's 

genealogy and heritage. 

Other notable figures 

include LeVar Burton, who 

has been an advocate 

for genealogy and African 

heritage, and Chimamanda 

Ngozi Adichie, a celebrated 

author whose work explores 

themes of identity and belonging. 

Perspectives and 

Analysis: 

The trend of finding roots in 

Africa has been met with both 

positive and negative reactions. 

On the one hand, it has provided 

individuals with a sense of 

empowerment and connection 

to their heritage. It has also raised 

awareness of Africa's diverse 

cultures and histories. However, 

some critics argue that this trend 

can be overly romanticized and 

may perpetuate stereotypes 

about Africa. They also point 

out that the commodification 

of African heritage can be 

problematic, as it may overlook 

the complex histories of 

colonization and slavery. 

Future Developments: 

Looking ahead, the trend of 

finding roots in Africa is likely 

to continue to grow as more 

people seek to understand their 

ancestral origins. Advances 

in technology, such as DNA 

testing and online genealogy 

databases, will make it easier for 

individuals to trace their heritage. 

However, it will be important 

for individuals to approach this 

trend with a critical eye and a 

nuanced understanding of the 

complexities of identity and 

heritage. By acknowledging the 

past and embracing the present, 

individuals can forge a deeper 

connection to their African roots 

and contribute to a more inclusive 

and diverse society. 

In conclusion, the trend of finding 

roots in Africa reflects a growing 

interest in understanding one's 

heritage and identity. High-profile 

individuals like Stevie Wonder and 

Meghan Markle have played a key 

role in bringing attention to this 

trend, and their experiences have 

inspired many others to explore 

their African roots. By embracing 

their heritage, individuals are 

reclaiming their identities and 

challenging traditional notions 

of race and ethnicity. As this 

trend continues to evolve, it will 

be important for individuals 

to engage in a thoughtful and 

nuanced exploration of their 

African roots, recognizing the 

complexities of history and 

identity. 

Photo credits: 

Prince Harry and his wife, Meghan 

Markle, surrounded by some 

Nigerians. 

Copyright: Arise News 

Stevie Wonder and President of 

Ghana after the former took the 

oath of allegiance as a Ghanaian 

citizen. 

Copyright: Business Elites Africa 


| 25


BILLIONAIRE 

EX-GOVERNORS, 

BROKEN STATES' 

TREASURIES 

By Dave Baro-Thomas 

As the country 

celebrates 25 years of 

unbroken democratic 

experiment, Nigerians 

are perplexed at the 

broken conditions of states’ 

treasuries across the country. The 

media was agog, recently, when 

the story of 58 former governors 

allegedly under prosecution 

by the Economic and Financial 

Crimes Commission (EFCC) hit the 

airwaves; a story the agency has 

since refuted and disassociated 

itself from. 

The jubilant reactions that greeted 

the news succinctly captured the 

mood of the people who were 

clearly demanding the recovery of 

our stolen patrimony from alleged 

criminal ex-governors who have 

become stupendously richer than 

the states once entrusted into 

their hands. 

Inarguably, scores of former 

governors were wealthy before 

their election into respective 

government houses but how they 

transmuted into multi-billionaires 

in naira and millionaires in 

foreign currencies is simply 

inconceivable. The political class 

gets richer by the day while their 

constituents and communities 

are impoverished. The situation 

is so endemic that the entire 

political space is like a man with 

rotten sores from head to toe! 

Understandably, the focus is on 

ex-governors, currently, but the 

whole country is enmeshed in 

filth - from the local councils to the 

federal government level. 

While the national debt hits 

billions of naira at the federal 

and state levels, the impact 

of such borrowings on critical 

sectors, in order to shore up the 

economy, is regrettable. From 

education to health, infrastructure, 

employment, agriculture, and 

many more, the development and 

progress celebrated are only on 

the pages and screens of mass 

media. They are not felt by the 

majority of people the governors 

are meant to be governing; of 

course, except some very few 

that have left behind enduring 

legacies. 

An objective evaluation of most 

projects executed by state 

governors between 1999 and 

2019 points to the increasing 



EFCC HEADQUARTERS, ABUJA 

need for the EFCC to live up 

to its responsibilities. Most of 

those projects are eroded, not 

necessarily because of neglect by 

successors but are clear cases of 

poor project conceptualisations, 

weak need assessment, 

misplaced priorities, or massive 

corruption. While some of the 

projects failed almost at the 

verge of the exit of the initiating 

governors, a good number did not 

survive a few years after them. Yet, 

billions of tax-payer monies went 

down the drain in such national 

thievery! 

If memory serves one right, it 

appears the EFCC goes after 

ex-governors citizens file report 

or petition against. So, without 

a formal complaint, any exgovernor 

can walk freely with 

billions of stolen funds and go on 

to rub it on our faces by contesting 

for senatorial election or being 

appointed as minister - while 

the impoverishment he caused 

continues to affect compatriots. 

Only one or two ex-governors will 

walk as free men in this country if 

they are made to account for their 

deeds while in office. Little wonder, 

they don't mind killing to install 

their stooges or man Fridays to 

cover the rot they left behind! 

In the few cases where a ruling 

party lost the governorship 

election in states, Nigerians are 

usually treated to expositions of 

large-scale treasury looting by the 

previous administrations. Some 

times, when a governor installed 

by his former boss falls out of 

favour with his boss, the cans of 

worms uncovered stink to the 

heavens like the drama currently 

in some states. 

The EFCC should change its 

modus operandi and standard 

practice by investigating all past 

governors and ministers, whether 

reported or not, so that it won't 

continue to look like a few are 

being witch-hunted for political 

reasons. The dragnet should be 

all-inclusive irrespective of party 

affiliations. 

The passion with which the current 

chairman of EFCC spoke about 

its case against Yahaya Bello, 

former governor of Kogi State, 

and his dogged resolve not to 

be blackmailed or cowed gives 

hope to Nigerians. If this country 

must work, then EFCC must open 

the books of state governments 

and demand restitution from all 

ex-governors irrespective of who 

they are. 

Finally, are people in power 

paying attention to investors 

and multinational companies 

leaving the country in droves 

and, sometimes, relocating to 

neighbouring, smaller economies? 

The handlers of the Nigerian 

economy should urgently 

respond appropriately to stop this 

hemorrhage lest the nation heads 

for the rocks. The present state 

governors should take a cue and 

create enabling environments 

to attract these multinationals 

to their states instead of getting 

fixated on untoward tendencies. 

DAVE 

BARO-THOMAS 


A Banker, Special Project 

Executive (BusinessDay Media) 

and Event/Conferences Manager 

(Vanguard Newspapers). A 

Producer, Editor, Author/ 

Publisher, (Development 

Post & Agrobusiness Times) 

Columnist, Voice-over artist, 

Content Specialist (Pan Atlantic 

University), Trainer, and 

Media Entrepreneur (GreenStel 

Communication/Zemeef 

Communications) with a strong 

flare for marketing 

and research. 


| 27


MEET ZENITH 

BANK’S FIRST 

FEMALE GMD, 

ADAORA 

UMEOJI 

By Adetutu Sobowale 

It is no longer news 

that Zenith Bank Plc 

appointed Dr. Adaora 

Umeoji as its new Group 

Managing Director 

some weeks ago. This 

appointment makes 

Umeoji the first female 

to be appointed as the 

GMD of the bank. 

She will be taking over 

from the current GMD, 

Dr. Ebenezer Onyeagwu, 

after his time in office 

expires on May 31. 

Her appointment is 

to take effect June 1, 

2024, according to 

a statement signed 

by the Company 

Secretary, Michael Otu. 


Adetutu Sobowale, writing for 

The Punch highlights 15 things 

readers should know about 

Adaora Umeoji: 

1. Umeoji holds a Bachelor’s 

degree in Sociology from the 

University of Jos. 

2. She also holds a Bachelor’s 

degree in Accounting and a 

First-Class Honours in Law from 

Baze University, Abuja. 

3. She holds a Master of Law 

degree from the University of 

Salford, United Kingdom, as 

well as a Master in Business 

Administration from the 

University of Calabar. 

4. She attended the Advanced 

Management Programme at 

Harvard Business School, USA. 

5. Umeoji attended the 

Strategic Thinking and 

Management programme at 

Wharton Business School, USA. 

6. She also attended the 

Executive Programme in 

Strategic Management and 

has a Certificate in Leading 

Global Business - both from 

Harvard Business School, USA. 

7. The new GMD holds a 

Certificate of Global Banking 

Programme from the 

Columbia Business School. 


8. The first female Zenith Bank 

GMD also has a Doctorate in 

Business Administration from 

Apollos University, USA. 

9. She holds a Certificate in 

Economics for Business from 

the prestigious MIT Sloan 

School of Management, USA. 

10. She is a Fellow of the 

Chartered Banker Institute, UK, 

Chartered Institute of Bankers 

of Nigeria, Institute of Chartered 

Mediators and Conciliators, 

the Institute of Chartered 

Secretaries and Administrators 

of Nigeria, Nigerian Institute 

of Management, Institute 

of Credit Administration 

and the Institute of Certified 

Public Accountants of Nigeria 

respectively. 

11. She is the founder of the 

Catholic Bankers Association of 

Nigeria. 

12. In 2022, Umeoji was 

honoured with the national 

honour of the Officer of 

the Order of the Niger in 

recognition of her contributions 

to nation-building by the 

Federal Government 

13. She is a Peace Advocate 

of the United Nations Positive 

Livelihood Award Centre (UN- 

POLAC). 

14. The new CEO has 30 years 

of experience in the banking 

sector. 

15. Before her appointment, 

Umeoji has been the Deputy 

Managing Director of the bank 

since October 28, 2016. 

Adaora Umeoji 


| 29


PRINCE HARRY'S RECENT 

VISIT TO NIGERIA AND 

THE INVICTUS GAMES 

By Diiyi William-West 

Prince Harry's recent 3-day visit to 

Nigeria May (10 -12) has brought 

attention to the Invictus Games 

cause, a cause that aims to 

support wounded, injured, and sick service 

personnel and veterans. This visit has 

significant historical context, as it builds 

upon Prince Harry's own military service 



Dr. Osotimehin 

and dedication to supporting 

those who have served 

their country. The Invictus 

Games, which were founded 

by Prince Harry in 2014, 

have become a platform 

for wounded veterans to 

showcase their resilience 

and strength through sports. 

Prince Harry's visit to Nigeria 

serves to further promote the 

Invictus Games cause and 

inspire others to support the 

veterans who have sacrificed 

so much for their countries. 

One key figure in the Invictus 

Games cause is Prince 

Harry himself. As a former 

military officer, Prince Harry 

has a deep understanding 

of the challenges faced 

by wounded veterans. His 

personal commitment to the 

cause has been instrumental 

in raising awareness and 

funds for the Invictus Games. 

By visiting Nigeria, Prince 

Harry is not only showing 

his support for the Nigerian 

veterans but also highlighting 

the global impact of the 

Invictus Games cause. 

Another influential individual 

in the field is the late Prof. 

Babatunde Oshotimehin, 

the former Executive Director 

of the United Nations 

Population Fund (UNFPA). 

Prof. Oshotimehin was a 

strong advocate for the rights 

of women and girls, as well as 

for the health and well-being 

of vulnerable populations, 

including wounded veterans. 

His work contributed to 

the broader conversation 

on social inclusion and 

empowerment, which aligns 

with the goals of the Invictus 

Games cause. 

Prince Harry's recent visit to 

Nigeria helps the Invictus 

Games cause by shining a 

spotlight on the importance 

of supporting wounded 

veterans and promoting 

their physical and mental 

well-being. The Invictus 

Games provide a platform 

for veterans to reclaim 

their sense of purpose 

and camaraderie through 

sports, fostering a sense of 

community and belonging. 

By participating in the 

Invictus Games, veterans 

are able to showcase their 

resilience and strength, 

inspiring others to overcome 

challenges and strive for 

excellence. 

However, there are also 

some negative aspects to 

consider in relation to Prince 

Harry's visit to Nigeria and 

its impact on the Invictus 

Games cause. Some critics 

may argue that the focus on 

high-profile visits detracts 

from the real issues facing 

wounded veterans, such as 

access to healthcare and 

support services. There may 

also be concerns about the 

sustainability of the Invictus 

Games as a long-term 

solution for addressing the 

needs of wounded veterans. 

It is important to address 

these criticisms and work 

towards creating a more 

comprehensive and holistic 

approach to supporting 

veterans. 

In conclusion, Prince Harry's 

recent visit to Nigeria has 

brought attention to the 

Invictus Games cause and 

highlighted the importance 

of supporting wounded 

veterans. By leveraging his 

platform and influence, 

Prince Harry has helped to 

raise awareness and funds 

for the cause, inspiring others 

to get involved and make a 

difference. While there are 

challenges and criticisms 

to consider, the overall 

impact of Prince Harry's visit 

is positive and paves the 

way for future developments 

in the field of supporting 

wounded veterans through 

sports and community 

engagement. 

DIIYI 

WILLIAM-WEST 


More fondly known as DDWEST, 

he has several years of media 

practice experience spanning 

magazines, newspapers, television 

and radio; laying emphasis 

on maintaining standards in 

media practice. He practised 

and lectured Public Relations for 

nearly a decade before going into 

leadership consulting and real 

estate consultancy. 


| 31


ETHICAL 

VALUES 

PEOPLE AS PRIORITY 

IN ETHICAL 

GOVERNANCE: 

THE CASE OF THE 

LAGOS TO CALABAR 

SUPERHIGHWAY. 

By Victor Olewunne 

In the heart of Nigeria’s President 

Bola Tinubu’s ambitious 

development vision lies the 

proposed Lagos to Calabar 

superhighway, a megainfrastructure 

projected to redefine 

connectivity and economic growth 

in the country. Yet, this grand vision 

has sparked significant debate over 

the balance between development 

and ethical governance, 

particularly regarding its priority in 

the midst of Nigeria’s many social 

and economic challenges. 

There has been no adherence to 

due process and transparency in 

its conception and award, and its 

impact on local communities and 

the environment has been largely 

ignored. One central question 

emerges: in the light these salient 

issues in ethical governance, are 

people the priority of this project 

and this government? 

The Vision of Connectivity and 

Growth 

The Lagos to Calabar superhighway 

promises to be a game-changer 

according to the proponents, 

spanning approximately 700 

kilometres and linking several of 

Nigeria’s major economic hubs. 

The project aims to bolster trade, 

reduce travel time, and stimulate 

economic activities along its route. 

Before considering the need for this 


• Dave Umahi 

new project, the question is, are 

the existing roads in the country 

maximally serving their intended 

purposes? Plus, will the case of the 

superhighway be different? This 

author is making reference to the 

scores of abandoned road projects 

scattered all over the country, too 

numerous to mention here. 

The Nigerian people for whom the 

superhighway vision is conceived 

seems to be missing in the 

equation. Today, the bare minimum 

for existence is the primary concern 

of most Nigerians: adequate and 

affordable food, adequate and 

affordable health care, standard 

and affordable education for our 

teeming young population, safety 

and security of lives, steady power 

supply and adequate maintenance 

of existing roads. These are the 

very basics for personal and 

developmental national growth, 

and not a new, multi-billion dollar 

highway. 

Ethical Concerns: Community and 

Environmental Impact 

Despite its potential benefits, 

environmentalists and local 

communities have cried out that 

environmental impact assessment 

(EIA) was not carried out for 

the mega project. In fact, it was 

reported that EIA stakeholders 

meeting was convened after 

the project had commenced. 

That simply means that the 

communities that would be 

affected by the mega construction 

are not even aware of what is 

heading their way! Let's not forget 

that the planned route cuts 

through ecologically sensitive 

areas, the home to endangered 

species and diverse ecosystems, 

multi-billion naira properties, sea 

resorts and more. The project also 

threatens to displace numerous 

indigenous coastal communities 

who have lived on these lands for 

generations! 

People-Centric Governance 

In a democratic society, ethical 

governance must prioritise the 

voices and well-being of the 

people. This principle becomes 

crucial when development projects 

pose significant drain on public 

resources and disruptions to 

communities. For the Lagos to 

Calabar superhighway, a peoplecentric 

approach would have 

involved rigorous, transparent 

decision-making processes, and 

active community engagement. 

But instead, everything seems to 

be shrouded in secrecy, opaque 

financial commitments and 

suspicious urgency. 

Case Studies in Ethical 

Development 

Several global case studies 

illustrate how people-centric 

approaches can lead to 

sustainable development. In 

India, the implementation of the 

Right to Fair Compensation and 

Transparency in Land Acquisition, 

Rehabilitation and Resettlement 

Act, 2013, set a precedent 

for considering the rights of 

affected communities. Similarly, 

in Brazil, the Belo Monte Dam 

project incorporated extensive 

consultations with indigenous 

communities, resulting in modified 

plans that reduced negative 

impacts. The Crossrail Project in the 

United Kingdom towed the path of 

competitive bidding, transparency, 

independent oversight and risk 

management. Another is the Hong 

Kong-Zhuhai-Macau Bridge, in 

China. This massive project linking 

Hong Kong, Zhuhai, and Macau is 

an example in financial prudence. 

It was anchored on detailed 

feasibility study, government and 

private funding and cost benefit 

analysis. I could go on. 

Steps Forward: Ensuring Ethical 

Governance 

Inclusive planning and consultation 

should have preceded the 

hurried commencement of this 

project. Comprehensive impact 

assessments is also crucial for such 

a huge project. This would have 

identified potential negative impact 

and propose mitigation strategies 

to address them. Laid down legal, 


policy frameworks and due process 

should have been religiously 

adhered to in a transparent 

manner. Laws ensuring fair 

compensation and resettlement for 

displaced communities are meant 

to mitigate adverse impacts 

and they need to be openly 

applied. International standard 

competitive bidding, value-formoney 

analyses, contractual clarity 

and independent review, in line 

with the 2007 Public Procurement 

Act, as enunciated in Section 

16 (1) (1) and (d), are all key to 

ethical governance necessary 

for the project award, execution, 

and holding responsible parties 

accountable for any violations. 

Conclusion: Balancing 

Development with Ethics 

The Lagos to Calabar 

superhighway stands as a 

testament to Nigeria’s cut-andnail 

approach to developmental 

ambitions. Realising this is an egodriven 

vision of few politicians who 

are distant from reality; it should 

not have come at the expense of 

ethical governance. By prioritising 

the well-being of its people, 

prudent use of their resources and 

preservation of the environment, 

Nigeria can set a global example 

of how to harmonise development 

with the principles of democracy 

and sustainability. Placing people 

at the heart of decision-making 

processes is not only a moral 

imperative but also a strategic 

necessity for genuine and lasting 

progress. 

VICTOR 

OLEWUNNE 


Victor Olewunne, the Ethicist, 

is a public affairs analyst and 

Founder, African Foundation for 

Ethics and Social Responsibility. 


| 33


WORLD 

ENVIRONMENT 

DAY: 

RISING BEYOND 

POLICY 

STATEMENTS 

By Harry Choms 

Since its inception in 1974, World 

Environment Day has become a 

pivotal platform for driving 

environmental awareness and 

instigating meaningful change. 

In the context of Nigeria, rapid 

urbanisation, deforestation, 

and pollution pose significant 

challenges, compounded by 

the impacts of climate change. 

World Environment Day is a rallying point for 

humanity to tackle pressing environmental 

issues such as pollution, deforestation, and 

climate change. This annual global event 

transcends borders and socioeconomic status, 

advocating for sustainable living practices worldwide. It 

underscores the critical need to safeguard our natural 

resources and nurture a symbiotic relationship between 

mankind and the environment. 

As we commemorate World Environment Day on June 5th, 

2024, it is crucial to go beyond mere policy statements and 

delve deeper into the pressing issues of land restoration, 

desertification, and drought resilience in view of the theme 

for this year's celebration. Mark your calendars - World 

Environment Day falls on June 5th annually. 

In view of the foregoing, Accomplish Magazine is shedding 

light on the importance of these issues and how individuals, 

communities, and governments can make a difference in 

tackling these environmental challenges. 

34 | 

www.theaccomplishmagazine.com


• Balarabe Abbas 

Evolution of World 

Environment Day 

Since its inception in 1974, World 

Environment Day has become a 

pivotal platform for driving 

environmental awareness and 

instigating meaningful change. 

In the context of Nigeria, rapid 

urbanisation, deforestation, and 

pollution pose significant 

challenges, compounded by 

the impacts of climate change. 

By joining the rest of the world to 

commemorate World 

Environment Day, Nigeria is 

harnessing vital momentum to 

address these issues and 

empower its citizens to 

embrace sustainable lifestyles, 

thus contributing to the global 

environmental cause. 

Nigerian Initiatives and 

Celebrations 

Various activities are used to 

mark World Environment Day in 

Nigeria in order to foster 

environmental stewardship. 

From tree planting initiatives to 

community clean-up drives, 

recycling campaigns, and 

educational seminars, Nigerians 

actively engage in efforts to 

enhance local and global 

environmental conditions. 

These initiatives highlight the 

interconnectedness of 

ecosystems and demonstrate 

Nigeria's unwavering 

commitment to environmental 

preservation and solidarity with 

the international community. 

Land Restoration: A 

Pathway to a Sustainable 

Future 

Land degradation significantly 

threatens global food security, 

biodiversity, and climate 

stability. Here are some key 

points to consider: 

Importance of Land Restoration 

• Restoring degraded lands can 

help mitigate climate change 

by enhancing carbon 

sequestration. 

• Promoting sustainable land 

practices can improve soil 

fertility and increase agricultural 

productivity. 

• Revitalising ecosystems 

through land restoration efforts 

can safeguard biodiversity and 

wildlife habitats. 

Strategies for Effective Land 

Restoration 

• Implementing agroforestry 

practices to restore vegetation 

cover and prevent soil erosion. 

• Supporting reforestation 

initiatives to enhance 

ecosystem resilience and 

provide economic benefits. 

• Adopting sustainable land 

management practices to 

conserve water resources and 

promote land productivity. "The 

Earth does not belong to us; we 

belong to the Earth." - Chief 

Seattle 

Desertification: Combatting 

the Spread of Arid Lands 

Desertification severely 

threatens livelihoods, 

ecosystems, and water 

resources globally. Here's how 

we can address this critical 

issue: 

Understanding 

Desertification 

• Desertification results from 

unsustainable land use 

practices, climate change, and 

human activities. 

• Degraded lands lead to 

reduced agricultural 

productivity, loss of biodiversity, 

and increased vulnerability to 

drought. 

Mitigation Strategies for 

Desertification 

• Implementing sustainable 

land use planning to combat 


| 35

primarily attributed to human activities. 

Various activities are 

used to mark World 

Environment Day in 

Nigeria in order to 

foster environmental 

stewardship. 

soil erosion and desert encroachment. 

• Promoting water-efficient agricultural practices 

and drought-resistant crops in arid regions. 

• Engaging local communities in ecosystem 

restoration projects to reverse desertification 

trends. 

Drought Resilience: Building Communities' 

Capacity to Survive 

Droughts are becoming more frequent and 

severe due to climate change, posing significant 

challenges to water availability and food security. 

Here's how we can enhance drought resilience: 

Building Drought-Resilient Communities 

• Investing in drought monitoring and early 

warning systems to improve preparedness and 

response. 

• Promoting water conservation practises and 

integrated water resource management to 

mitigate drought impacts. 

• Supporting sustainable agriculture techniques 

such as rainwater harvesting and crop 

diversification to enhance resilience. 

Fascinating Facts About World Environment 

Day 

Marine Versus Terrestrial Oxygen Production: Did 

you know that marine plants contribute 

approximately 70% of Earth's oxygen, while 

terrestrial plants, including trees, account for the 

remaining 30%? 

Climate Change Realities: The Earth's average 

temperature has surged by approximately 1.1 

degrees Celsius since pre-industrial times, 

Forest Loss: Shockingly, an estimated 18 million 

acres (7.3 million hectares) of forests vanish 

yearly, equivalent to about 27 soccer fields per 

minute. 

Access to Clean Water: Only about 64% of 

Nigerians have access to clean, safe drinking 

water, highlighting the ongoing challenges in 

ensuring water security. 

Environmental Impact of Oil Production: Nigeria, a 

leading oil-producing nation, grapples with 

severe pollution in the Niger Delta due to oil spills, 

adversely affecting ecosystems and community 

livelihoods. 

On this World Environment Day, let us rise beyond 

mere declarations and take concrete actions to 

restore lands, combat desertification, and build 

drought resilience. By working together at local, 

national, and global levels, we can create a more 

sustainable future for future generations. 

Remember, the earth is not just our home; our 

responsibility is to protect and preserve it for 

future generations. 

Let's make every day Earth Day! 

HARRY CHOMS 


Harry Choms is a freelance writer 

with a passion for words and a 

keen eye for details, an editor, and 

an avid tech believer. His works 

can be seen on EntrepreneurNG. 

com, Imautomator, Secureblitz, 

Withinnigeria, Feelgospel, 

Kemifilani, and Glamsquad 

Magazine. He is the Webmaster 

and sole owner of Matrismart.com 

and biowiki.com.ng. 


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| 37


BIDEN, COLLEGE 

PROTESTS, GAZA, 

RAFAH AND 2024 

ELECTIONS 

By Chido Nwangwu 

Amidst his own personal 

concerns, increasing 

pressure from protests 

across college 

campuses, disagreements with 

the “progressive wing” of his 

Democratic Party, criticism from 

humanitarian organisations in the 

world, growing negative 

assessments from polls of his 

handling of the latest war in the 

Middle East, United States' 

President Joe Biden has made 

public an unusual step and 

position in his country’s 

relationship with Israel. 

On May 8, 2024, Biden told CNN that 

he will stop sending bombs and 

artillery shells to Israel if it launches 

major invasion of Rafah (in the 

Palestinian Territories). He said, 

“Civilians have been killed in Gaza as 

a consequence of those bombs and 

other ways in which they go after 

population centres.” 

President, Joe Biden 

He has had some disagreements with 

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin 

Netanyahu, notably: 

“I made it clear that if they go into 

Rafah – they haven’t gone in Rafah 

yet – if they go into Rafah, I’m not 

supplying the weapons that have 



Those who support 

Israel argue that 

a number of the 

pro-Palestinian 

protests have 

been violent and 

anti-Semitic. On 

the other side, the 

protesters insist 

that Netanyahu’s 

government has 

been waging a war 

of genocide 

in Gaza. 

been used historically to deal with 

Rafah, to deal with the cities – that 

deals with that problem.” 

It has been an unusual two weeks 

in the United States to see the 

college protests spreading and 

clashes with the Police escalating 

over the current Israel-Hamas/ 

Palestinian war. From Columbia 

University in New York to the 

University of Texas in Austin, from 

the University of California to the 

University of North Carolina at 

Chapel Hill, some students and 

other affiliated interests have been 

protesting against America’s 

staunch ally, Israel, regarding its 

retaliation war in Gaza. 

Those who support Israel argue 

that a number of the pro- 

Palestinian protests have been 

violent and anti-Semitic. On the 

other side, the protesters insist that 

Netanyahu’s government has 

been waging a war of genocide in 

Gaza. The protesters are impacting 

the way younger and older 

generations of people in the United 

States are defining the knotted, 

divisive and dangerous issues that 

follow the seemingly intractable 

crises! 

There are also issues being raised 

regarding who should get involved 

in the protests and who are 

America’s friends or enemies. On 

May 1, 2024, Republican Sen. 

Marsha Blackburn (R-Tennessee) 

said on NewsMax that the U.S. 

government should revoke the 

visas given to international 

students who are involved in the 

ongoing nationwide college 

protests against Israelii war 

activities in Gaza and other parts 

of the Palestinian territories. "You 

cannot go around yelling: ‘I am 

Hamas’ or ‘We are Hamas’ or ‘River 

to the sea’ and pushing out Jewish 

students and have the university 

not step up,” Blackburn said on 

“The Hill” on NewsNation. 

“Now, in my opinion, for the 

students who are out protesting, 

shouting ‘Death to America’ and 

‘Death to Israel’ and … being 

Hamas sympathisers, if they’re 

foreign students, I would pull their 

visa and deport them,” she aded. 

She argued that if they are U.S. 

students on federal student loans, 

she would call for pulling their 

loans. “You cannot sit by and just 

let this activity continue and have 

Jewish students put … in harm’s 

way.” 

The seriousness of the protests 

became the hours long, live news 

coverage on U.S. and international 

channels and social media 

platforms; especially when, on 

Tuesday night, April 30, 2024, New 

York City Police Department (NYPD) 

officers entered the Columbia 

University campus. The authorities 

said it was in response to some 

protesters who took over a 

campus building and were flying a 

Palestinian flag. Columbia 

University said it had to bring in the 

NYPD: "After the university learned 

overnight that Hamilton Hall had 

been occupied, vandalised, and 

blockaded, we were left with no 

choice." 

The decision has been criticised by 

Democratic congressman Rep. 

Jamaal Bowman of New York, who 

stated he was "outraged by the 

level of police presence called 

upon non-violent student 

protestors on Columbia and 

CCNY's campuses." 

I think that it’s increasingly evident 

that the young, voting age 

population are going to be critical 

demographics as the battles in 

and around Gaza are also playing 

out in different ways across 

universities/colleges here in the 

United States. Who knows or who 

can predict the November 2024 

elections? It’s a summer of political 

turmoil and uncertainty… 

CHIDO 

NWANGWU 


Dr. Chido Nwangwu, author 

of the forthcoming 2024 book, 

MLK, Mandela & Achebe: Power, 

Leadership and Identity, is 

Founder of the first Africanowned, 

U.S-based newspaper on 

the internet, USAfricaonline.com. 

He has appeared as an analyst 

on CNN, ALJazeera, SKYnews, etc. 

Follow him on X (Twitter) 

@Chido247. 


| 39

GL BAL InfoDIGEST 

Ancient philosophers 

and modern scientists 

agree: A key to 

happiness—perhaps 

the most important key to 

happiness—is strong bonds 

with other people. 

When I talk to people about 

their happiness, one of the 

most common comments is 

that they wish they had more 

friends. But making friends 

takes time, energy, and 

sometimes money (to pay for 

something like a class or bike 

tour where you might meet 

people), and these may be in 

short supply. 

AN UNBELIEVABLE 

RECOVERY 

On the night of December 20, 1980, 19-year-old Jean 

Hilliard's car hit the ditch. She tried walking to get help, but 

in the morning she was found in the front yard of a local 

cattle rancher — frozen solid at about 22 degrees. She was 

so frozen that her skin could not be pierced by hypodermic 

needles — the needles broke on contact with her skin. 

Her body temperature was so low that it didn’t register on 

a thermometer. Her face was an ashen-gray colour and 

her eyes didn’t respond to changes in light. Even though 

the medical staff thought she was dead, they decided to 

gradually warm up her body with heating pads. 

Eventually, they got a faint pulse of 12 beats per minute! 

She went ahead to make a full recovery. 

Editor's Note: This story was posted by Tiana Sullivan 

under t he "Amazing Moments" series on Quora.com. 

Why is it so hard to 

make friends as an 

adult? 

• When we’re younger, most of 

us have built-in systems that 

make it easy to find friends— 

school, sports, and activities, 

sharing living spaces, new jobs, 

and new neighborhoods are all 

sources of potential friends 

when we’re in that phase of life. 

• Making new friends also 

requires a regular investment 

of time and effort over a long 

period. When we already have 

demands on those resources— 

work, housework, family—it’s 

easy to let new and existing 

friendships fall down the list of 

priorities. 

• It can feel hard to make a 

connection with people who 

already have an established 

social circle. You might wonder, 

“Why would this person spend 

time getting to know me when 

they already have a group of 

friends?” 

· When we move to a 

new place, we often have to 

create a new social circle. This 

takes time, energy, and 

initiative. Sometimes a new job 

can help us make friends; 

sometimes not. Sometimes we 


WHY IT'S SO HARD 

TO MAKE FRIENDS 

AS AN ADULT 

(AND 8 SIMPLE 

SOLUTIONS) 


your own. Book clubs, volunteer 

groups, group tours, fitness 

classes, lectures, crafting groups, 

and workshops are great places to 

meet people with similar interests. 

It’s often easier to make friends 

through working than through 

talking. 

4. Keep the scheduling hassles as 

light as possible: If you’re planning 

a group gathering, just pick a day 

that works for most people rather 

than delaying indefinitely while you 

try to find a date that works for 

everyone. 

have a friend in a new place who 

can act as an ambassador to help 

us forge new bonds; sometimes 

not. 

8 Strategies for 

Cultivating Friendships: 

1. Find common ground: Shared 

experiences or circumstances can 

present potential friends—and 

offer an easy conversation starter. 

If you’re seeking new connections, 

work colleagues, parents of a 

child’s classmates, fellow pet 

owners, and neighbors all already 

have something in common with 

you. In particular… 

2. Make friends with friends of your 

friends: Research shows that one 

of the best ways to make friends is 

to make friends with the friends of 

your friends. So once you have a 

friend or two, use those 

relationships to find more friends. 

3. Join a group around an interest: 

Identify a hobby, subject, or skill 

that interests you, and take a class, 

join a group, or start a group of 

5. If you’re tight on time, remember 

frequency makes a bigger impact 

than duration: You don’t have to 

spend an entire afternoon with 

someone to cultivate a friendship. 

Start with a quick coffee date or 

send a meme to start a 

conversation. A group can meet 

once every six weeks or even once 

every two months, if once a month 

is a stretch. 

6. Revive a dormant friendship: Do 

you have any dormant friendships 

you’d like to rekindle? Someone 

you’ve lost touch with? It can be 

intimidating to reach out to an old 

friend after a long period of time, 

but they may be feeling the same 

way. Identify someone you’d like to 

reconnect with, and make a plan 

to send them a text or email this 

week, even just to say you’ve been 

thinking of them. 

7. Get on the bandwagon: Watch a 

popular show or movie, read the 

latest bestseller, or listen to an 

interesting podcast so you can join 

in the general conversation. Not 

sure what to watch, read, or listen 

to? Ask for a recommendation as a 

way to create a connection. 

8. Talk more: While many people 

believe they’ll be more likable if 

they talk less, research suggests 

that people who spoke more than 

half the time in conversation were 

found to be more interesting and 

likable. 

Editor's Note: This is an 

excerpt of a piece written and 

posted on LinkedIn by 

Gretchen Rubin, Host of the 

"Happier with Gretchen Rubin" 

podcast. 


| 41


WHAT HAPPENS IF A PERSON 

WHO TOOK A LOAN FROM A BANK 

DIES WITHOUT PAYING BACK? 

If a person takes a loan 

from a bank and dies, what 

will the bank do? There are 

many such cases in India, 

for instance, where a person 

dies after taking any kind of 

loan from the bank. 

In a case where the person 

dies after taking a loan from 

the bank, the first thing to be 

seen by the bank is whether 

the borrower has taken any 

kind of insurance policy on 

this loan. If the person who 

took the loan has taken an 

insurance policy on the loan, 

then after the death of that 

person, his loan amount is 

repaid by the insurance 

7 LIFE-CHANGING PHRASES. 

If you're serious about changing your life, you'll find a way - if not, you'll find an excuse. 

Spend money on experiences, not things. 

Don't listen to what people say; watch what they do. 

Some losses set us free. 

A year from now, you'll wish you had started today. 

Motivation gets you started, habit is what keeps you going. 

When you change the way you look at things, the things you look at change. 

Editor's Note: This was posted by Better Life_1 on Quora.com. 



company. That is, now the bank can recover the loan 

from the insurance company. 

Another option with the bank - If no insurance policy 

has been taken on the loan, then the bank checks 

whether there is any guarantor or co-applicant on the 

loan. If there is a guarantor or co-applicant, the bank 

can recover the loan from the person taking the loan 

after the death. 

The third option with the bank - If there is neither an 

insurance policy nor a guarantor on the loan, then the 

security kept by the bank in lieu of the loan with it is 

brought up. For example, in the case of a home loan, 

the paper of your house is mortgaged with the bank. 

Similarly, the stock of your business is mortgaged with 

the bank on a business loan. This is the last way for the 

bank to recover the loan by selling your property. 

When the bank has no option to recover the loan back, 

the bank can recover it by selling your mortgaged 

property as well. 

However, in the case of a personal loan or any other 

loan on which the bank has not mortgaged any 

property nor has any guarantor or co-applicant, then 

the loan cannot be recovered on the death of the 

person taking the bank loan. In this case, the loan given 

by the bank may get sunk. 

Editor's Note: This piece was originally posted on 

Quora.com by Sangram Sagar. 

How do I invest in 

American stock 

market while living in 

Nigeria? 

Find an online broker that can accept you, 

do the forms (application forms, verify your 

identity and so on) and invest. 

Nigeria isn’t a “black listed” country like 

some places, where hardly any brokers will 

accept - Somalia for example. There are 

plenty of options. However, it depends how 

much money you have to invest. 

Let’s keep this simple. 

If the amount of money you have is pretty 

small and/or you can’t get the money out 

of Nigeria easily, then I would stick to local 

providers. In comparison, if you have at 

least $500 a month to invest, or a decent 

lump sum, I would consider international 

providers. Most people with money in the 

country want to diversify internationally and 

there is a reason for this. It is safer and 

better. 

Editor's Note: This piece was written by 

Adam Fayed of Expat Wealth 

Management on Quora.com. (http:// 

adamfayed.com) 


| 43

DIASPORA AFRICAN 

Edward 

Enninful 

British Vogue's Ghanaian Born 

Editor-in-Chief 

Fashion industry trail 

blazer, Edward Enninful is 

the editor-in-chief of 

British Vogue, with a 

special blend of vision, talent, 

and cultural resonance. 

Enninful's Ghanaian heritage 

and his upbringing in London 

are closely connected to his 

creative nature. Because of 

this, his art has a unique 

perspective that values variety 

and inclusivity. 

Throughout his career, Enninful 

has dismantled obstacles and 

challenged conventional 

wisdom in the field, winning 

praise for his avant-garde 

contributions to fashion writing 

and style. When he was 16, he 

was discovered by renowned 

stylist, Simon Foxton, who 

launched his meteoric rise to 

prominence in the fashion 

world. Enninful immediately 

became well-known for his 

bold and inventive styling 

techniques that went beyond 

convention and reinterpreted 

conventional notions of beauty. 

He began a new chapter for 

the venerable magazine in 2017 

when he became the first male 

editor-in-chief of British Vogue 

in the magazine's 101-year 

history. Under his direction, 

British Vogue has changed 

dramatically, valuing diversity 

in all of its publications and 

supporting marginalised 

voices in both fashion and 

culture. 

Drawing from his Ghanaian 

origin, Enninful has been 

greatly influenced in his 

editorial direction and is 

motivated to highlight a depth 

of African culture and tradition 

in the pages of British Vogue. 

He has challenged industry 

standards, pushed for better 

diversity and representation, 

and elevated the voices of 

Black creatives through his 

work. 

His influence goes much 

beyond the magazine's pages, 

even outside of his position at 

British Vogue. Using his 

position, he actively promotes 

diversity and inclusivity in the 

fashion business and works to 

bring about structural change. 

He is dedicated to promoting 

mentorship programmes for 

young talents and assisting 

up-and-coming designers in 

order to create a more 

inclusive and equitable future 

for the fashion industry. 

He has received many awards 

and distinctions for his unique 

contributions to the fashion 

business; in appreciation of his 

efforts, one of which is the title 

of Officer of the Order of the 

British Empire (OBE) for uplifting 

diversity in the industry. His 

reputation as a visionary 

editor, cultural ambassador, 

and taste maker has 

cemented his place as a true 

fashion legend by inspiring a 

generation of creatives 

worldwide. 

44 | Accomplish Magazine

DIASPORA AFRICAN 


Accomplish Magazine 

| 45

GRAND DESIGN / ARCHITECTURE 

By Damian Ikenna Ngere 

• Kosovar Sculptors Make Their Mark in New York’s 

Met with Doodle Art 

The yearly Roof Garden 

contract from The Met includes 

sculptures by Petrit Halilaj that 

are reminiscent of scribbles. This 

week, Petrit Halilaj, an artist born 

in Kosovo (b. 1986), opened an 

exhibition on a very rare canvas: 

the rooftop of the renowned 

Metropolitan Museum of Art in 

New York (The Met). 

This most recent version of his 

massive “Abetare” project, which 

debuted in 2015, is based on a 

great deal of study and includes 

about 3,000 doodlings he 

discovered on student tables at 

his previous school in Kosovo as 

well as in other Balkan nations. 


GRAND DESIGN / ARCHITECTURE 

• MAD Architects Unveils Design for Cloud 9 Sports 

Centre in Shijiazhuang 

The mirrored Cloud 9 Sports Centre, 

envisioned as "a luminous cloud" with a 

wavy shape, has been developed by global 

architecture studio, MAD. Designed for the 

Chinese city of Shijiazhuang in the Hebei 

Province, the 6,000-square-metre structure 

will include retail areas in addition to a 

sports complex featuring a gym and tennis 

courts. 

In order to reflect the surrounding park, 

MAD covered the Cloud 9 Sports Centre 

with a metallic-coated, translucent ETFE 

membrane material that produces a 

reflected image. Inside, the silvery facade 

is contrasted with orange hues. The 

translucent membrane of the building 

provides views inside the sports centre, 

further emphasising the activities within. 

DAMIAN 

IKENNA NGERE 


Ikenna is a graduate of Physics and Education, 

who works as a freelance writer. He has interest 

in technology, humanity and sports. 


| 47


Securing High 

ROI in Real Estate 

Investments Amidst 

High Inflation - Part 1 

By John Abiodun Olaitan 

Real estate is, unarguably, one of the 

most lucrative and stable investments 

anyone can make. However, investing 

in real estate is challenging, especially 

in Nigeria, where inflation, currency 

devaluation, and economic uncertainty are 

prevalent. In this piece, we will explore some 

of the things you need to consider when 

investing in Nigeria's real estate during this 

awkward time of all-time high inflation. 

Why Invest in Real Estate 

in Nigeria? 

Nigeria is the most populous 

country in Africa and the seventh 

most populous country globally. 

It has a large and growing middle 

class, a young and dynamic 

population, and abundant natural 

resources. These factors make 

Nigeria an attractive destination 

for real estate investors who want 

to tap into the massive potential 

of the Nigerian market. 



According to a report by 

PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC), 

the Nigerian real estate sector 

is expected to grow by 8.7% 

annually from 2021 to 2025, 

driven by demand for residential, 

commercial, and industrial 

properties. The report also states 

that the Nigerian real estate 

sector contributed 8.4% to the 

gross domestic product (GDP) in 

2022, making it one of the most 

critical sectors of the economy. 

SOME BENEFITS OF 

INVESTING IN REAL 

ESTATE 

High Returns: 

Real estate investments 

can generate high returns 

regarding rental income, capital 

appreciation, and equity growth. 

According to Risevest, a platform 

allowing Nigerians to invest in 

properties in the United States, 

Nigeria's average annual return 

on real estate investments is 25%, 

compared to 10% in the US. 

Hedge Against Inflation: 

Real estate investments can 

serve as a hedge against 

inflation, as property prices tend 

to increase with the general price 

level. This means that real estate 

investors can preserve the value 

of their money and even profit 

from inflation. 

Tax Benefits: 

Real estate investors can enjoy 

tax benefits such as depreciation 

allowance, capital gains tax 

exemption, and mortgage 

interest deduction. These tax 

benefits can reduce the cost 

of ownership and increase 

net income from real estate 

investments. 

Diversification: 

Real estate investments can 

diversify your portfolio and 

reduce risk exposure to other 

asset classes such as stocks, 

bonds, and commodities. Real 

estate investments correlate 

poorly with other assets, meaning 

Real estate 

investors can enjoy 

tax benefits such 

as depreciation 

allowance, 

capital gains tax 

exemption, and 

mortgage interest 

deduction. These 

tax benefits can 

reduce the cost 

of ownership and 

increase net income 

from real estate 

investments. 

that they do not match them. 

This can help you balance your 

portfolio and smooth out your 

returns over time. 

Methodologies for 

Investing in Real Estate 

During Inflation 

Investing in real estate in 

Nigeria during inflation requires 

careful planning, research, and 

execution. Here are some of the 

things that you need to do when 

investing in real estate in Nigeria 

during inflation: 

Choose the Location Wisely: 

Location is everything regarding 

real estate investment. You 

must choose a location with 

high demand, low supply, good 

infrastructure, security, and 

growth potential. It would be best 

if you also consider the impact 

of inflation on different locations. 

For instance, some locations 

may experience higher inflation 

than others due to exchange 

rate fluctuations, government 

policies, and market forces. 

When choosing a location for 

the Investment and setting your 

price, you must factor in these 

variables. 

Choose the Property Type 

Carefully 

There are different types of 

properties you can invest in, 

such as residential, commercial, 

industrial, or agricultural. Each 

property type has advantages 

and disadvantages, risks and 

rewards, and suitability for 

different investors. It is important 

that you choose a property type 

that matches your goals, budget, 

risk appetite, and expertise. 

Please also consider the impact 

of inflation on different property 

types. For instance, some 

property types may be more 

resilient to inflation due to factors 

such as demand elasticity, supply 

elasticity, income elasticity, and 

substitution effect. You must 

analyse these factors when 

choosing your property type and 

setting your rent or sale price. 

(To be continued)... 

JOHN 

ABIODUN OLAITAN 

AUTHOR BIO 

John Abiodun Olaitan is a real 

estate consultant, realtor and 

emerging developer and CEO 

of Arklanded Properties Ltd. 

He diversified into real estate 

after decades of experience 

in the oil and gas sector. He’s 

happily married 

with children. 


| 49

THE INCUBATOR 

with Diiyi William-West 

SERIES 

Should You 

Go Into 

Partnership 

One of the 

important 

issues 

budding 

business men or 

women have had 

to deal with is if 

they should go into 

partnership. In fact, 

it is much the same 

for people who have 

been in business for 

a while and want to 

expand. 


THE INCUBATOR SERIES 

You may be asking why this 

issue is important. It is of why 

it has attracted much debate 

whenever it comes up. The reason 

isn't far fetched. There seems like 

"street gossip" has more records 

of partnerships gone sour than 

partnerships that thrived and 

raised the quality of livelihood of 

the partners. But is partnership an 

automatic enrolment into business 

failure? Of course, not! We can 

surmise, then, that partnerships do 

not fail just because two or more 

of people were into joint-owned 

business. It's what the parties who 

went into partnership do that 

makes the difference. 

According to the US 

Internal Revenue 

Service "... partnership 

is the relationship 

between two or more 

people to do trade or 

business. Each person 

contributes money, 

property, labor or skill, 

and shares in the profits 

and losses of the business". 

From what we have just 

read, partnership should be 

mutual in every regard for them 

to be worthy ventures that bring in 

anticipated returns on investment. 

Similarly, Bruna Martinuzzi of Clarion 

Enterprises Limited said, "A business 

partnership can benefit both 

partners, but weighing the pros and 

cons before entering into one is 

essential." 

These references show that 

while going into partnership is an 

avenue to grow wealth, it's also 

a decision that needs thorough 

scrutiny before the parties get 

started and throughout the 'life' of 

the partnership. We can see, then, 

that partnerships succeed or fail 

because of the manner they were 

established and/or because of the 

character of the people who went 

into partnership. 

In considering the advantages 

and disadvantages of partnership, 

Bruna Martinuzzi identified some 

points. On one hand, he said the 

advantages of partnership include: 

- bridging the gap in expertise and 

knowledge among partners; 

- enabling access to additional 

"A 

business 

partnership 

can benefit both 

partners, but 

weighing the pros 

and cons before 

entering into one 

is essential." 

capital; 

- making room for cost savings by 

way of sharing the financial burden 

of the business; 

- enabling sharing of roles and 

responsibilities for more productivity 

and flexibility to pursue more 

business opportunities; etc. 

On the other hand, disadvantages 

of partnership business include: 

- sharing in the liability of the bush if 

returns on investment fails; 

- loss of autonomy partners would 

have enjoyed if they had run their 

own businesses; 

- possibility of conflicts among 

partners; 

- difficulty of one or more of the 

partners leaving the partnership at 

will; certain conditions must be met 

before any of partners can exit; 

- certain in occurrences in the life 

of one partners could affect the 

stability of the entire organisation; 

etc. 

Bruna Martinuzzi 

From the foregoing, partnership 

business is neither good or bad on 

its own. What matters is what and 

how the agreeing partners begin 

the partnership and continue its 

operations. In my view, with the 

increasing requirements by the 

Corporate Affairs Commission 

for establishing limited liability 

companies, forming partnerships 

could be the way out for people 

desiring to make impact in business 

operations, expertise and returns 

on investment. Like the saying goes: 

look before you leap. 

DIIYI 

WILLIAM-WEST 


More fondly known as DDWEST, 

he has several years of media 

practice experience spanning 

magazines, newspapers, television 

and radio; laying emphasis 

on maintaining standards in 

media practice. He practised 

and lectured Public Relations for 

nearly a decade before going into 

leadership consulting and real 

estate consultancy. 


| 51

AFRICA RISING: NEWS ABOUT AFRICA 


BUSINESS AND FINANCE 

The government of Zimbabwe 

has announced fines for 

businesses that use exchange 

rates higher than those 

stipulated by the newly 

introduced gold-backed 

currency, known as the ZIG. 

This move aims to safeguard 

the value of the new currency. 

According to The East African, 

any business in Zimbabwe 

using an exchange rate 

exceeding the official rate of 

13.5 ZiG per United States dollar 

will face a fine of 200,000 ZiG 

($14,815), as per a government 

notice. 

Additionally, the notice states 

that offering goods or services 

at exchange rates higher 

than the stipulated interbank 

foreign currency selling rate 

will be considered a civil 

infringement. 

World Bank Halts Funding 

for Tanzania Tourism 

Initiative 

According to a rights 

organisation based in the 

United States that has long 

pushed the international lender 

to take such action, the World 

Bank has halted support for a 

tourism project in Tanzania that 

resulted in the misery of tens of 

thousands of residents. 

"Long overdue," the Oakland 

Institute said in a statement on 

Tuesday, May 7, as the World 

Bank's decision to halt the $150 

million project, which aims to 

enhance the management of 

natural resources and tourism 

assets in a remote area of 

southern Tanzania. The Oakland 

Institute further charged that 

the bank's "failure to take 

immediate action resulted 

in serious harm for the local 

communities." 

Zimbabwe Introduces 

Fines for Businesses Not 

Using New Gold-Backed 

Currency 

POLITICS 

Somalia Urges UN to 

Terminate Political 

Mission Amid Escalating 

Al-Shabab Assaults 

Somalia has formally asked the 

United Nations to end its political 

mission in the nation, citing 

strategic needs in light of the 

continued attacks by the extremist 

organization, al-Shabab, which is 

affiliated to al-Qaida. 

Somali Foreign Minister, Ahmed 

Moalim Fiqi, announced the 

government's decision in a letter 

to Secretary-General Antonio 

Guterres and the Security Council 

that came about as a result 

of meticulous analysis of their 

strategic goals. Fiqi called for quick 


TECHNOLOGY 

procedures to end the mission 

before October 31st, which is the 

deadline for the force's present 

mandate, known as United Nations 

Assistance Mission in Somalia 

(UNSOM) 

Oracle Boosts Research and Development 

Investments in Morocco 

Oracle plans to increase its staff in Morocco to 1,000 information 

technology (IT) specialists in order to enhance its research and 

development (R&D) capabilities in the country. With this investment, 

Oracle's cutting-edge technologies that assist in resolving global 

client difficulties will develop more quickly. 

Safra Catz, CEO of Oracle, and Ms. Ghita Mezzour, Minister in charge 

of Digital Transition and Administration Reform of the Moroccan 

government, have formalised their relationship and dedication to 

innovation in Morocco through their signing of an agreement. Mr. 

Ali Seddiki, General Director of the Moroccan Agency for Investment 

and Export Development (AMDIE), and Mr. Mohcine Jazouli, Minister in 

charge of Investment, Convergence, and Evaluation of Public Policies, 

attended the occasion. 

South African President 

Condemns Party's 

Flag-Burning Ad as 

Treasonous 

Only weeks before the 

country's elections, which are 

seen as the most important 

since the end of the apartheid 

system of racial segregation 30 

years ago, tensions have been 

raised by a campaign video for 

the opposition party in South 

Africa that depicts the flag of the 

country in flames. 

The Democratic Alliance, 

the opposition party, claims 

the advertisement represents 

what it believes will happen 

to the nation if the African 

National Congress (ANC), the 

incumbent party, teams up 

with two other parties to form a 

coalition in order to stay in power 

following the election on May 

29. South African President, Cyril 

Ramaphosa, who leads the ANC, 

has called the ad "despicable" 

and "treasonous." 

DAMIAN 

IKENNA NGERE 


Ikenna is a graduate of 

Physics and Education, 

who works as a freelance 

writer. He has interest in 

technology, humanity 

and sports. 


| 53

GLOBAL NEW 

TECHNOLOGY 

By Damian Ike 

BUSINESS AND 

FINANCE 

Major Solar Storm Disrupts Musk's Starlink 

Satellites 

Elon Musk's SpaceX satellite division, Starlink, issued a "degraded 

service" warning on Saturday, May 11, as the Earth was being 

pummeled by the strongest solar-induced geomagnetic storm in 

the past 20 years. Starlink is a major participant in satellite 

internet, controlling over 60% of the approximately 7,500 satellites 

in orbit around the planet. 

Musk stated in a post on X that the geomagnetic storm was 

putting a lot of strain on the Starlink satellites, but so far they were 

holding up. The largest storm since October 2003, according to 

the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, is 

expected to linger into the weekend and pose a threat to satellite 

navigation, power grids, and navigation systems, among other 

services. 

US Wholesale Inflation 

Wraps up 2023 With 1% 

Annual Rate in December 

Due to weekly gains of the euro 

anThe United States begins 2024 

with supply-side price pressures 

under check. For the third straight 

month, US producer prices 

declined in December, pushing 

a carefully monitored inflation 

indicator closer to pre-pandemic 

levels. According to figures 

provided by the Bureau of Labour 

Statistics on Friday, January 12, 

wholesale inflation 

China's Consumer 

Prices Increase for Third 

Consecutive Month, 

Indicating Recovery 

Demand 

As Beijing negotiates difficulties in 

its attempt to support a faltering 

economy, consumer prices 

in China increased for a third 

consecutive month in April, while 

producer prices continued to fall, 

indicating an improvement in 

domestic demand. The eagerly 

awaited figures come after betterthan-anticipated 

April import data, 

indicating that a flurry of policy 

assistance initiatives over the last 

few months may be boosting 

consumer confidence. 

US Consumer 

Sentiment Hits Lowest 


S ROUND UP 

nna Ngere 

POLITICS 

Point in Six Months; 

Inflation Expectations 

Surge 

Concerns over rising living 

expenses and joblessness 

caused United States' consumer 

sentiment to plummet to a 

six-month low in May, although 

analysts advised against making 

assumptions about the impact 

on the country's economic 

prospects. The University of 

Michigan revealed on Friday, 

May 10, a greater-than-expected 

decline in attitude across all 

age, income, and educational 

categories as well as political 

party identification. 

UK Economy Exits 

Recession Ahead of 

Election 

United Kingdom's economy left 

a short recession with strongerthan-expected 

growth in the first 

quarter, according to official data 

released Friday, May 10, providing 

a boost to embattled Prime 

Minister, Rishi Sunak, ahead of 

this year’s elections. The Office for 

National Statistics (ONS) reported 

that gross domestic product 

increased by 0.6% in the first three 

months of this year, with robust 

growth in service industries 

and car manufacturing. This 

outperformed market estimates 

by 0.4 per cent and was the best 

result since the fourth quarter of 

2021, helping drive London’s stock 

market to even another new high. 

Israeli Army Orders More Evacuations from 

Rafah as It Axpands Gaza Assault 

As it continues its offensive in the southernmost region of the Gaza 

Strip, the Israeli military has issued orders for residents in further areas 

of eastern and central Rafah to leave, once more forcing tens of 

thousands of Palestinians to flee their homes. 

The United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian 

Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) reported on Saturday, May 11, 

that an estimated 150,000 Palestinians, many of whom had been 

displaced more than once, have now left Rafah. It is estimated by 

Israel to be around 300,000. 

Russia Launches Surprise Attack on 

Northern Ukraine in Serious Cross-Border 

Offensive in Two Years 

According to information from 

Ukrainian officials and sources, 

Russian soldiers have launched 

two cross-border attacks into 

northern Ukraine as part of 

what President Volodymyr 

Zelensky is referring to as a 

"new wave of counter offensive 

actions" by Russia. The Russian 

military crossed the border with 

the assistance of armoured 

vehicles at approximately 5 

in the morning on Friday, May 

10, according to an official 

statement from Ukraine's 

Defense Ministry. 

This came after a day of 

increased artillery and guided 

aircraft bomb attacks on the 

border region. 

DAMIAN 

IKENNA NGERE 


Ikenna is a graduate of 

Physics and Education, 

who works as a 

freelance writer. He has 

interest in technology, 

humanity and sports. 


Accomplish Magazine 

| 55

Ai TODAY & TOMORROW 

Shaping a Brighter 

Nigerian Future 

By Wisdom Thursday 

Imagine a Nigeria where traffic 

congestion becomes a relic of 

the past, where doctors receive 

real-time support for complex 

diagnoses, and where farmers 

optimise yields with pinpoint 

accuracy. Artificial intelligence (AI) 

holds the potential to revolutionise 

every facet of our lives, and Nigeria 

is poised to be an active participant 

in this technological revolution. 

Our story with AI isn't new. 

Decades ago, the quest to mimic 

human intelligence began with the 

birth of Computer Science. Early 

efforts focused on game-playing 

algorithms and symbolic logic, 

laying the groundwork for today's 


Ai TODAY & TOMORROW 

sophisticated systems. The 1990s 

saw the rise of machine learning, 

where computers learn from data 

without explicit programming. This 

approach fueled the development 

of spam filters, recommendation 

systems, and the early iterations of 

virtual assistants. 

Today, AI is woven into the fabric 

of our daily lives. Facial recognition 

unlocks our phones, chatbots 

answer our customer service 

inquiries, and AI-powered weather 

forecasts guide our decisions. In 

health care, AI analyses medical 

scans to detect diseases at earlier 

stages, while in agriculture, it helps 

predict weather patterns and 

optimise irrigation systems. These 

are just a few examples of how AI is 

transforming our world. 

Looking ahead, the possibilities 

are even more exciting. AI-powered 

transportation systems could 

significantly reduce traffic 

congestion in our bustling cities. 

Imagine self-driven cars navigating 

Lagos or Kano streets, streamlining 

commutes and improving road 

safety. In education, personalised 

learning powered by AI can tailor 

educational content to individual 

needs, ensuring every child 

receives the support he or she 

deserves. 

The potential for economic 

growth is significant. AI can 

automate repetitive tasks, freeing 

up human capital for innovation 

and creativity. It can also empower 

local businesses by providing 

data-driven insights for better 

decision-making. However, it's 

crucial to acknowledge the 

challenges that come with AI 

adoption. Job displacement due to 

automation is a concern, and 

ethical considerations regarding 

data privacy and bias in algorithms 

need careful attention. 

To navigate these challenges 

and unlock the full potential of AI, 

Nigeria needs a multi-pronged 

approach. Firstly, fostering a culture 

of innovation and research is 

essential. Encouraging 

collaboration between universities, 

research institutions, and the 

private sector can drive the 

development of AI solutions tailored 

to our unique needs. 

Secondly, investing in science, 

technology, engineering and 

mathematics (STEM) education 

equips our youth with the skills 

needed to contribute to and benefit 

from this technological revolution. 

Programmes that encourage 

critical thinking, problem-solving, 

and coding will be crucial in 

building a future-ready workforce. 

Finally, establishing ethical 

frameworks for AI development 

and deployment is paramount. We 

must ensure that AI systems are 

transparent, unbiased, and used 

responsibly for the greater good. 

The story of AI in Nigeria is still 

being written, but the opening 

chapters are filled with promise. By 

embracing this technology 

thoughtfully and strategically, we 

can unlock a future brimming with 

economic opportunities, improved 

social services, and a brighter 

tomorrow for all Nigerians. As 

Nelson Mandela once said, 

"Education is the most powerful 

weapon which you can use to 

change the world." Let's use AI as 

another powerful tool to shape the 

Nigeria we want to see. 

WISDOM THURSDAY 


Wisdom Thursday is a digital 

growth specialist. He is a 

disruptive thinker with a diverse 

skill set and experience in 

Brand Strategy Development, 

Digital Marketing, Web Design 

and Marketing Strategy 

Development.. 


| 57

LIFESTYLE 


ARTS & THE MASTERS 

• The Hay Wain by John Constable Exhibited 

in Bristol 

Bristol is home to one of the most well-known paintings by John Constable. The 

centre piece of the Bristol Museum & Art Gallery's National Treasures: Truth to 

Nature exhibition began on Friday, May 10, and runs until September 1. In honour of 

the London museum's 200th anniversary, the National Gallery has leased the Hay Wain. 

The Hay Wain is an English landscape painting by Constable from 1821. 

Viewers in Bristol will have the opportunity to examine it up close as well as in relation 

to other landscape paintings, which will include eleven oil sketches by Constable that 

are lent by the Victoria & Albert Museum. 


LIFESTYLE 

• Spain’s Prado Museum Confirms 

Authenticity of Caravaggio Painting 

Previously Thought Lost 

The Prado Museum in Madrid, Spain, 

said on Monday, May 6th, that a 

painting that was scheduled for 

auction in Madrid in 2021 is, in reality, a 

long-lost piece by the renowned Italian 

Baroque painter, Michelangelo Merisi da 

Caravaggio. Later in May, the museum 

unveiled it to the public for the first time. 

In a statement released by The Prado, 

it was stated that the painting, entitled 

“Ecce Homo” (Latin for “Behold the Man”), 

has found a new owner and will be on 

display as a unique one-piece exhibition 

from May 27 until October. The owner 

has not yet been named. 

The oil painting on canvas portrays the 

Ecce Homo chapter from the Bible, which 

shows the presentation of Jesus Christ 

to the masses prior to his crucifixion. The 

piece is 34 by 44 inches in size. 

DAMIAN 

IKENNA NGERE 


Ikenna is a graduate of Physics and Education, 

who works as a freelance writer. He has interest 

in technology, humanity and sports. 


| 59

LIFESTYLE 

Turning 

Yoghurt into 

Rich Butter 

The 

Transformative 

Magic 

It may sound 

like wizardry to 

transform yoghurt 

into butter, but 

the technique 

is actually very 

easy. You can turn 

yoghurt into a 

delectable finished 

product with just 

one ingredient and 

your hands. 

Prepare to unveil 

the mystery that 

lies behind this 

cooking feat as 

yoghurt takes 

centre stage. For 

optimal outcomes, 

choose full-fat 

plain yoghurt. 

To give a unique 

touch to your 

butter, you may 

even begin with 

home made 

yoghurt if you're 

feeling really 

daring. 

The Process of 

Conversion 

To start, strain 

your plain yoghurt 

to take out any 

extra whey. For 

this stage, you 

can use a fine 

mesh strainer or 

cheese cloth. To let 

the yoghurt filter, 

refrigerate it for 

the entire night. 

Yoghurt will get 

thicker as a result, 

which is ideal 

60 | Accomplish Magazine

LIFESTYLE 

extract the butter milk. Rinse your butter 

under cold water to ensure that any left 

over butter milk is gone, since this will 

enhance its shelf life. 

Next, choose your preferred form for 

the butter. Rolling it into logs covered in 

parchment paper is a favourite method 

for some individuals, while others like 

carving it into blocks. And voila! Using just 

a bowl of yoghurt, you may make your 

own butter that is creamy and smooth. 

As opposed to store-bought butter, which 

has preservatives, this butter is not only a 

healthier choice, but it also shows off your 

culinary prowess. 

for creating butter. The filtered yoghurt 

should then be moved to a big bowl. 

Time to get the churning going! This 

stage can be completed with a hand 

mixer, stand mixer, or food processor. 

While whipping the yoghurt, adjust the 

speed to medium or high. The yoghurt will 

start to separate into butter and butter 

milk as you mix. 

Embracing Handmade Quality 

Making your own butter allows you to not 

only create something delicious, but also 

embrace a piece of culinary heritage. It's 

about slowing down, enjoying the process, 

and reconnecting with the self-sufficiency 

of the past. Use hand made butter in your 

favourite dishes, spread it over toast in the 

morning, or melt it over a steaming bowl of 

vegetables. Each time you make it, savour the 

delight of making something from scratch 

while also enjoying the rich, creamy flavour. 

So, the next time you go for a tub of yoghurt, 

consider the potential it holds. With a little 

effort, you can quickly convert it into butter 

and add a distinct flavour to your meals. 

Enjoy both the process of creation and the 

wonderful results that follow. Happy butter 

making! 

Source: Barbara O’Neil writing for filmflicks.net 

Churn the butter until you see little 

clumps appear. Grab the butter clumps 

with a spatula and transfer them to a 

fine-mesh sieve or clean cheese cloth to 


| 61

Escape 

TOP TOURIST 

ATTRACTIONS IN 

RWANDA 

Kigali Genocide 

Memorial Museum 

1 

It is Rwanda's permanent 

national genocide memorial 

in remembrance of more than 

one million victims of the 1994 

genocide against the Tutsi. 

The memorial is a place of 

remembrance and learning where 

more than 250,000 victims of the 

genocide have been laid to rest. 

Many people who lost loved ones 

in the genocide visit to remember 

and grieve. There is no entrance 

fee and donations are gratefully 

accepted. 

Kimironko Market 

2 

Kimironko Market, Kigali, is filled with everything 

from used clothing to bags, fabric and custom 

clothing, produce and arts and crafts. You can 

get the best prices on souvenirs there. The 

same things bought at Kimironko Market were 

selling for ten times at other places around. Plus 

everyone there is very friendly though it can get 

crowded! 

Boys gather at the entrance and offer to show 

you around and carry around your bags. 


Escape 

Inema Arts Centre 

3 

Founded in 2012 by brothers and self-taught painters, Emmanuel 

Nkuranga and Innocent Nkurunziza, the Inema Arts Centre's mission 

is to spur creativity for personal, social, and economic growth. 

At its core, Inema provides space for 10 artists-in-residence to 

explore their creative talent. Specialising in contemporary African 

art, Inema's artists produce painting, sculpture, and mixed media 

expressions, all of which are showcased at the gallery at Inema Arts 

Centre. 

Inema is also home to the following: 

- Nziza Artworks - featuring bespoke jewellery, African linens and 

leather works made by women at the onsite Nziza Workshop; 

- Art with a Mission - training children with limitted resources art to 

give them livelihood; 

- Inema Dance - the centre's youth cultural dance troupe. Inema 

Arts Centre provides a room for weekly traditional dance classes to 

the experts. 

Inema is open daily from 8a.m. to 8p.m. and is located in Kigali - in 

the suburb of Kacyiru. 

Nyamata Church 

4 

This church is the grounds of a horrific attack 

during the Rwandan genocide, and has been 

preserved as a memorial to that time. It has the 

mass graves, victims' clothing, and remnants of 

victims, many who could not be identified. While 

troubling and stark, it's an important counterpart to 

the Genocide Memorial in Kigali because, in a way, 

it's living history. 

While all of Rwanda suffered through the genocide, 

hearing the specific stories of one place bring that 

message home of how a community was torn 

apart. It's hard to imagine the pain the victims 

went through, but it's important to try. 

5 

Niyo Arts Centre 

Niyo Arts Centre is a place for creativity to thrive; 

a safe haven where Rwandan artists can come 

and experiment with their art form, be it painting, 

sculpture, dance, music or drumming. The artists 

in residence come from all over Africa, so you can 

expect to see a vast array of African art on display. 

Niyo Art Centre provides a space where Rwandan 

creative artists can explore their talents and express 

themselves freely. In addition to the art, the centre 

dedicates its efforts to improving the community by 

giving 40% of its profit to Niyo Foundation, an NGO 

that supports women and children living in poverty in 

Rwanda. 

Editor's Note: Source of stories 

and photographs: https:// 

www.tripadvisor.com 


| 63

AFRICAN STARTUP ANGEL by 

THE 

EVOLUTION 

OF ANGEL 

INVESTING 

IN AFRICA: 

FROM SECTOR- 

AGNOSTIC 

TO SECTOR- 

SPECIFIC 

STRATEGIES 

The Evolution of 

Angel Investing in 

Africa: From Sector- 

Agnostic to Sector- 

Specific Strategies 

Angel investing in Africa 

is on the rise, playing an 

increasingly vital role in 

funding early-stage startups 

on the continent with 

over $100 million annually. 

While the ecosystem is still 

maturing, organisations 

like the African Business 

Angel Network (ABAN) 

are nurturing its growth 

with angel investors who, 

beyond capital, are offering 

indispensable mentorship 

and strategic guidance 

to founders, fostering a 

nurturing environment for 

innovation and growth. 

Angel investing provides 

a small but bright spot 

for African start-ups and 

is poised for continued 

expansion in the coming 

years as a notable shift 

is occurring from sectoragnostic 

approaches to 

more targeted, sectorspecific 

strategies. This 

evolution marks a significant 

development in how angel 

investors are leveraging their 

capital to ignite sustainable 

growth and innovation 

across the continent. 

The 2023 ABAN Angel 

Investment Survey Report, 

which was revealed at the 

10th annual Africa Early 

Stage Investor Summit 

(AESIS) last December 

2023, an event ABAN coconvenes 

with VC4A in 

Cape Town, South Africa, 

underscored this transition, 

spotlighting fintech, agritech, 

and cleantech as the key 

sectors capturing the 

interest of Africa’s angel 

investors, driven by their 

potential for scalable, 

impactful innovation. This 

shift is not merely strategic 

but essential for catalysing 

sustained growth and 

innovation across diverse 

industries. 

Last year, the fintech sector 

continued to shine, drawing 

over $22.5 million in angel 


AFRICAN STARTUP ANGEL by 

investments, driven by its 

capability to transform the 

lives of Africa’s 350 million 

unbanked population. 

This robust funding 

stream highlights fintechs’ 

significant role in promoting 

financial inclusion, economic 

mobility, and community 

empowerment. 

Agritech also saw a surge 

in interest, aligning with its 

potential to revolutionise 

agriculture - a foundational 

element of many African 

economies. By integrating 

modern technologies, this 

sector is poised to enhance 

agricultural productivity and 

sustainability but to also 

ensure food security in a 

continent poised for rapid 

population growth. 

Meanwhile, the focus on 

cleantech has grown, 

reflecting a global shift 

towards sustainable 

practices. Angel 

investments in cleantech 

are not just financially 

sound but are crucial for 

addressing Africa’s pressing 

environmental and climate 

challenges by supporting 

innovations in renewable 

energy and waste reduction. 

AESIS 2023 also celebrated 

the substantial growth 

of Africa’s early-stage 

investment scene over the 

last decade. The number of 

active angel investors has 

doubled since 2019 when 

the ABAN Angel Investment 

Survey started, and the 

total funding for start-ups 

has risen dramatically, a 

testament to the increasing 

influence of angel 

capital in fueling African 

entrepreneurship and 

innovation. 

As we move forward in 2024, 

the strategic collaborations 

and dialogues facilitated 

by AESIS are set to deepen, 

enhancing the shift towards 

more specialised, sectordriven 

angel investing across 

Africa. The networking and 

shared insights from the 

summit have equipped our 

investor community with the 

necessary tools to navigate 

distinct market landscapes, 

identify high-potential 

opportunities, and deploy 

capital effectively. 

This strategic shift from 

broad-based investing to 

sector specialisation signifies 

a new era of sophistication 

and transformative impact 

in African angel investing. 

Driven by deeper market 

insights, data-backed 

decision-making, and 

pioneering initiatives like 

AfriLabs, Lagos Angel 

Network (LAN), African 

Business Angels Network 

(ABAN), Innovation Support 

Network (ISN), African 

Private Equity And Venture 

Capital Association 

(AVCA) and African Early 

Stage Investment Summit 

(AESIS) and a whole host of 

other ecosystem building 

organisations, this approach 

will direct investments 

towards sectors with critical 

needs and high scalability 

potential. 

So, whether it’s leveraging 

fintech for broader economic 

inclusion, using agritech to 

strengthen food systems, 

or promoting cleantech for 

environmental sustainability, 

sector-specific investing is 

poised to drive sustainable 

growth and societal benefits 

across our continent. As 

our African early stage 

investment ecosystem 

continues to mature, I am 

confident that this focused 

approach will propel Africa 

toward realising its immense 

entrepreneurial and 

economic potential, shaping 

a future where innovation 

and sustainability go hand in 

hand. 

Tomi Davies (TD) BIO: 

TD is a leading figure in 

Africa’s tech ecosystem, 

known as “Africa’s top Angel” 

and the inspiring voice behind 

TVC Labs, a start-up support 

organisation in Lagos, Nigeria. 

His expertise extends to angel 

investing, mentoring, and 

advising tech companies, 

all while equipping future 

generations of entrepreneurs 

through his book “Investment 

Worthy Startup” published in 

2023. 


| 65

June 2024 ACCOMPLISH

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