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Hi, it's Oluseyi, thanks for reading my insights.

Let me tell you a story https://instagram.com/reneg...

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Jefferson Nnadiekwe

Freelance scriptwriter and creative photographer

Lagos, Nigeria

It's often thought that brave men are brave because they have no fear or doubts. In reality, brave men are brave because they push past their fears and overcome the doubts in their heads. Bravery is an exceptional quality any human being can possess, it's what propels us to break barriers and achieve what might naturally seem impossible. Because it is that amazing, it doesn't come easily. I am of the opinion that we are not born brave, rather we learn to be brave. And as every other thing learned or groomed, there are a lot of challenges associated with the process. Fear is a primordial emotion in human beings - a sort of protective instinct if you will. However, it can be limiting as it is protective. This is where bravery comes in. We don't always need protection as our instincts make us to believe. There comes a time in a man's life where he needs to take up the challenge before him irrespective of the risk involved. It's how we grow, develop, and expand. Another misconception that people have is that bravery can only be expressed physically or in the case of external conflict. Which is why it might sound odd to some people if I say an individual can be physically brave but a coward mentally. It is this mental cowardice that I have decided to explore today. Mental cowardice manifests in different areas - in personal relationships, romantic involvements, and career ambitions. Have you ever been assigned a duty and your first instinct is to turn in down? Probably because you are scared you wouldn't be able to deliver... Sucks right? There is no need to feel ashamed if you have, you should only feel bad if you succumbed to those thoughts. I will tell you for free that as a creative, those urges are common. The first time I had a booking for a wedding shoot, I felt like passing up the opportunity. Even though I had passed up some other opportunities, I'm glad I didn't. Lately, I got a commission to write a script in an aspect of media I have never written for. While the representatives of the company were breaking down the brief, I did feel a bit overwhelmed, and a small part of me wanted to run. Thankfully I was brave and shook away the intrusive thoughts - hopefully I create something that you all will love. Quite a number of people have remained stagnant in their industries, when they clearly should be operating at a higher level. Mental cowardice inhibits innovation - a persistent problem in Nigeria. If there's something I admire about those from other continents, it is the willingness to take risks and break new grounds (with meticulous planning and execution of course). Whereas most Africans are generally okay at the basic level, succumbing to their fears stopping them from grabbing the brass ring. What's all of these about? To tell you that it is perfectly normal for fear to creep in. Seriously, you cannot eradicate it. Being brave doesn't mean you do not have doubts or apprehension or even the urge to do nothing. Being brave is you doing what you need to do in the face of all of those things. In romantic relationships, there are moments where making commitments appears scary. In those moments you might want to opt out of the relationship. Mental cowardice is you doing that for a phantom gratification. You might wonder how do we learn to be brave. The only answer I have for that is having a strong sense of conviction towards a specific thing, person or goal.

In Literature, Writing and Blogging • 3 min read • May 29, 2024 08:47a.m.

THE CASE OF MENTAL COWARDICE

THE CASE OF MENTAL COWARDICE

Jefferson Nnadiekwe

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The hype of December is the very sponsor of the dread of January. But upon closer examination, January is such an underrated darling. I mean, with the noise of celebration now safely behind us, you'd have to admit, there's a calmness about the pace of life; the tension and pressure now a ship swallowed in the distant horizon. Many are making the slow return from their cloud nine trip back to reality, to the here and now. Words floated in hushed whisperings that January would reign without mercy, dishing out consequences of a squandered December. Those who foresaw time, predicted that January would stretch out like many months compressed in one. They expected hunger, cases of protracted emptiness of pockets and accounts. The 9-5ers who earn their keep from salaries count the days that lead up to the blissful arrival of the end of the month. As each day passes by, they are consoled and even motivated to hang in there. Slowly but surely, slowly but surely. Those who have embraced the risk-riddled world of entrepreneurship take deep sighs as they reminisce the days when sales came in quick successions. They blame January and exonerate December. January has to be the least loved of months. But it is, in all candour, the captain of the others in its trail. In a calm command, it directs the year and others only but respond, 'aye'. For all the assumptions drenched in error about January, I erect a case for the month of months. For some, it is a descent that feels like a hangover from a night of wild partying, but January is a subtle crescendo, somewhat a slow swelling of goals to full maturity. It is the consistency of January that partly guarantees a continuance of the journey to a blissful realization of desires. As if they can't wait for January to fade away, online vendors begin to fan the flames of a far-away Valentine's Day. Everything starts wearing red again; this time, it is not of a Christmas kind. And just like that, the idyllic ambience, a gift offering from January begins to give way as people craft for themselves a fresh means of disturbance. The pressure on relationships to look perfect starts heating up and boiling point draws near. Right before our very eyes, we see January ambushed by the preparation for Valentine's Day. It makes it feel as if February began somewhere in January, making the 28 days as we have always known it to be, a sham.

134

Hi, it's Jefferson, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a creative screenwriter, photographer, cinematographer and creative director. You can check out some of my works here https://instagram.com/themi...

Score | 444

Nse Obot

Writer. Teacher. Singer

Lagos, Nigeria

451

1179

In Nigeria • 2 min read • Jan 16, 2023 22:14p.m.

A CASE FOR JANUARY.

A CASE FOR JANUARY.

Nse Obot

0:00 / 0:00

Navigating the Tech World as a Woman: A Nigerian Perspective As the world becomes increasingly digitalized, the tech industry continues to grow and evolve at a rapid pace. Yet, for women, especially those from underrepresented regions like Nigeria, entering this male-dominated field can be a daunting journey filled with unique challenges. Today, I want to shed light on the struggles of the mind transitioning into tech as a woman, particularly from the perspective of a Nigerian, and the added difficulties of securing remote jobs in this competitive landscape. For many women, making the transition into the tech industry is not just about learning new skills—it's about breaking barriers and challenging stereotypes. In Nigeria, where gender inequality is still prevalent in various sectors, pursuing a career in technology as a woman requires resilience, determination, and a strong support system. From battling societal expectations to overcoming imposter syndrome, the journey can be emotionally taxing and mentally draining. One of the most significant hurdles faced by women in Nigeria aspiring to work in tech is the lack of access to quality education and resources. While the desire to learn and excel in this field may be there, the means to acquire relevant skills and knowledge are often limited, especially for those from disadvantaged backgrounds. Additionally, the absence of female role models and mentors in the tech industry further exacerbates feelings of isolation and self-doubt among aspiring female technologists. Furthermore, the pursuit of remote job opportunities adds another layer of complexity to the equation. While remote work offers flexibility and freedom, securing remote jobs as a Nigerian woman in tech comes with its own set of challenges. Limited access to stable internet connection, unreliable power supply, and cultural biases against remote work can hinder progress and limit opportunities for professional growth. Additionally, navigating the intricacies of remote job applications, such as cultural differences and time zone constraints, requires adaptability and perseverance. Despite these challenges, Nigerian women in tech are resilient and resourceful. They are carving out their space in the industry, leveraging online learning platforms, networking opportunities, and support networks to overcome obstacles and pursue their dreams. Organizations and initiatives focused on empowering women in tech, both locally and globally, play a crucial role in providing access to education, mentorship, and career advancement opportunities. As we strive for gender equality and inclusivity in the tech industry, it is essential to recognize and address the unique challenges women face, particularly those from underrepresented regions like Nigeria. By fostering a supportive and inclusive environment, promoting diversity in the workplace, and providing equal opportunities for all, we can create a more equitable and vibrant tech ecosystem where women can thrive and succeed. In conclusion, the journey of transitioning into tech as a woman, especially as a Nigerian, is filled with obstacles and uncertainties. However, it is also a journey of resilience, empowerment, and endless possibilities. By overcoming challenges together and championing diversity and inclusion, we can build a brighter future where every woman has the opportunity to shine in the tech industry.

412

Comments

Queensley Okon

Ota • 1 year, 11 months ago

I'm glad you got to do this. This was beautiful to read. Keep writing

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Lagos, Nigeria

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LAYERS OF MEMORY AND ICE

After you grew, you let yourself slip Back to the place where shadows whispered your name, Where the hurtful gaze seared through...

Chidera Odom

Benin City, Nigeria

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137

In Career and Jobs • 3 min read • Mar 22, 2024 12:05p.m.

Navigating the Tech World as a Woman: A Nigerian Perspective

Navigating the Tech World as a Woman: A Nigeria...

Nwobu Chidimma

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Chi'oma Collins Gohcollins Marius Koshvila

I hope none of my clients see this but here’s the truth, I genuinely hate social media. Perhaps hate might be a strong word but yes, I dislike the entire concept of it. Sometimes I wonder what life would have been like if I was born some centuries ago but then again, I doubt I would have been able to survive slavery or war. If you can’t already tell by the title of this post, I am an introvert…an introverted introvert who is more introverted than an introvert..and there’s not a single lie in this statement. The mere thought of interaction sends bumps down my spine yet every day I wake up, I have to connect with people in the world, send messages, post pictures, and interact with strangers virtually and in real life because that’s the industry I decided to thrive in. It is amusingly ironic that I somehow became a marketer, working in a space that deals so much with people and selling things to them when I could barely ask my classmates for a pen in secondary school. I am certain I am not the only one with this struggle and so how did I do it…or better yet, how does one who is inherently introverted take charge of a space that is opposite of their very existence. I don’t have the magic keys to solving this problem but I’ll share how I worked through mine. So the first step is hard to do but the best thing there is…and that is, ‘accept your fate’. You need to survive whether you hate humans or not and if you are lucky to work in a space that requires you to sit alone, disconnected from the world then I am happy for you but if you are not that lucky and you somehow became the Marketing team lead then by all means, accept your fate. It won't be easy. I hated working in the first few months of being in this space. I would open up clients' social media pages and nearly start shedding tears. Sometimes the mere thought of having to post a picture, share it with people, and then get them to engage would send me into a state of depression and work paralysis. It sounds untrue but I don’t joke when I say I am an introverted introvert. My shyness and lack of social skills go beyond just meeting people in real life, it reaches the virtual world as well..but once I told myself that this is what I need to do to survive, I ended up just doing it. I enjoyed everything that came before the talking to people part. Researching, creating the copy, making the designs, and drawing up plans were always great but when it came down to actually meeting people, I died inside multiple times. This brings us to the next point, find the parts about it that you enjoy and take advantage of them…I hate the entire social media work but I loved what came before it so I let that joy help me through. Use the parts you love to power through the parts you hate and that’s the magic principle. When Marc Anthony said ‘if you do what you love, you'll never work a day in your life’ He wasn’t completely bluffing…not everyone gets the chance to do what they love so the best bet is to find something you love about what you do…and if you find that there is absolutely nothing to love about what you do then perhaps you need to be considering changing your job. Life is already too stressful to add working a job that you absolutely hate. And unto the next part, harness your strength as an introvert. I read an article once when I was figuring out how to survive in this field and it said ‘Introverts make great marketers’ I was really curious to see how the writer was going to prove this and so I read it. Whilst I may or may not have agreed with what had been written, one thing I gained from reading that article was finding my strength and tailoring my work around it. Rather than wish to be extroverted, I make my introversion work for me. Find marketing strategies that are easy for you to use and that encourage you to do more of the things you like and are good at. When it comes to marketing, introverts have distinctive traits that can become advantages. Introverts often make great listeners, and observers, are more creative, and are able to build deep relationships better than others. All of these are essential traits needed in marketing today so if you think about it, the qualities you think limit you are things that make you a better marketer. As an introvert, you won’t post before thinking; you’ll take time to think about what you put out there and avoid making mistakes you have to make up for and because you speak less in social situations, you are able to read your social environment and accurately pick up on social cues that others may miss. The final way I survived was by figuring out how to match my introversion to different platforms and scheduling things ahead of time. Once I understood my own brand of introversion, I studied different platforms and worked out how to use them to my advantage. For example, posting thought-provoking Tweets would require conversations with the audience and I am the type of introvert that can’t keep up with this, so I maximize other channels. Facebook is great for larger conversations, LinkedIn works well to connect with specific people, Twitter offers space for quick-fire interactions, and Instagram is all about images…I work well with Instagram because I enjoy creating images, I still struggle with making videos and so I cover that up by harnessing email marketing and the LinkedIn space. There is nothing wrong with spending more time on the platform that most closely matches your working style since it will make you more effective. It is important to note that even with your best efforts, you will occasionally feel overwhelmed, and there is nothing wrong with it. There is no getting around the fact that you will always find social media stressful. Despite this, it is still a useful weapon and with the appropriate strategy, it is possible to strike a balance between developing a public presence and safeguarding your private life. The smartest move is to determine your top posting medium and topics and make sure to take regular breaks. Strive to improve, but keep in mind that being introverted is not a problem that has to be solved, but rather a different strategy that allows you to develop more intimate, one-on-one relationships. Until next time!

137

Comments

Tobi Igbinedion

Lagos • 4 weeks, 1 day ago

Hey Chidinma, read through this and im really wondering why you dont write more. Wow!

Score | 560

Esther Omemu

Design Associate @ Hera Marketing

Lagos, Nigeria

700

7933

In Career and Jobs • 5 min read • Feb 07, 2023 21:58p.m.

Lessons Learned: How to survive as an Introverted Digital Marketer

Lessons Learned: How to survive as an Introvert...

Esther Omemu

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Ntamugabumwe Victor

Oluseyi Vandy Daniel Victor Arc...

Whenever that line hits in Whitney's rendition of "I Will Always Love You", I get goosebumps. Her voice is so powerful and envelopes you in an angelic aura that you don't leave until the song is over. Dolly Parton was definitely proud of the performance because she is looking at Beyonce to cover "Jolene". Well, I don't know if Bey would be willing to but I already enjoyed Miley and Noah's version; heck, I didn't even realize Noah Cyrus could sing. Oh I seem to have forgotten I am supposed to be interacting with my readers and not losing myself in the beauty of music 🎵🎵🎵 I already told you music is my first love so I cannot help it🤷🤷 And yes, today we are exploring covers of amazing songs. Believe me, that song may not be as original as you had thought but the cover did so much justice you already forgot about the original. But let us understand what covers are okay Covers are typically new versions, performances or recordings of a song. They could have similar structure, in terms of lyrics and progression, but have different arrangements in terms of pitch, tone, production and so on. And this is one musical element that has existed overtime in music as a form of appreciation for the original work or just to add your own flavor. For example, Shontelle's " Impossible" was covered by James Arthur in his self-titled album and his rendition is on steam. I love both versions and you can see and appreciate the fact that both are great songwriters and vocal performers. It's like listening from different perspectives and still living in the moment. If you are a music lover like I am, you would know Calum Scott and appreciate the vocals, lyrics and beauty he brings to music. If you are informed on his music, you would remember "Dancing On My Own". For those that followed him from his audition days, he performed it on stage and improved the track so well it got added to his album. The song is a cover by Robyn, another UK artiste. Hers was a more upbeat and electronic sound and his is more sensitive and slow, bringing a soulful twist. All ye Tina and Ike Turner fans remember "Proud Mary", a song that has become an anthem for a lot of movies. Well, I hate to be the bearer of bad news but the song is a cover with the original sung by Creedence Clearwater Revival. Tina's twist to the song popularized it and made it an instant hit. Our favorite and aforementioned "I Will Always Love You" was originally written by Dolly Parton and had a country feel with some pain but Whitney Houston blessed the track with her vocal dexterity, evoking emotions only her voice could have pulled off. It became an instant hit and is still sung till today as an audition song for those daring enough to hit that hard hitting line "...... and I!!!!!!!!! would always love you, oooooooooo ah.....". Yeah, a classic😌😌 Hallelujah By Jeff Buckley is one track that has been covered a lot of times. From Beyonce to Alexander Burke and more, this version has probably been the most covered version of Hallelujah. What you don't realize or know is the song was originally by Leonard Cohen. Yeah, we enjoy Jeff's version but give props to the original composer. If you watch any American "girl power" movie that has a lot of boudoir montage, you would appreciate Cyndi Lauper's "Girls Just Wanna Have Fun" for existing. It is the best track to show the fun loving side of girlfriends. It makes you almost forget the original by Robert Hazard that is a far cry from the message of the cover. While Cyndi's brings a feminist undertone, Robert's seems more objectifying with leering overtones. For the old heads, if you love the Queen of Soul, Aretha Franklin's "Respect" you probably might be surprised to learn it was originally written by a man, Otis Redding and Aretha, like Cyndi, made it into a go-girl moment. Props to the Queen of Soul as the song didn't have a lot of potential until she blessed it with her flair. Most of us probably remember Amy Winehouse for her quirkiness and rockstar lifestyle, or her battle with the dreaded white powder but for those on the pulse, you would remember her classic hit, "Valerie" with Mark Ronson. I love this song a lot, especially how her voice delivers it seeing as the original by the Zutons could not do as much damage. She really did her thing. Killing Me Softly is another track that transcends generations, maybe because of the notable sultry vocals by Lauryn Hill which outshine the original by Roberta Flack. I don't know, do you? 🎶 Red Red Wine 🎶 a classic reggae tune by UB40 sends shivers down my spine whenever I hear it. Who would have thought they could transform an acoustic somber ballad by Neil Diamond to a reggae number and it would still be as classic? Lovely song!!! I must say this, as much as we don't like imitation, can we at least agree in this case that "imitation truly is the best form of flattery?" I think these covers are truly amazing I might bring more your way, who knows Thank you for reading and I hope I took you down memory lane with some good music pie to chump on What covers did I miss? Which one shocked you? Snippets of this article were written with excerpts from these sites <a href="https://bestlifeonline.com/cover-songs-better-than-original/">https://bestlifeonline.com/cover-songs-better-than-original/</a> <a href="https://www.timeout.com/music/best-cover-songs">https://www.timeout.com/music/best-cover-songs</a>

549

Hi, it's Esther, thanks for reading my insights.

A creative writer born, bred and established in art of advertising...Feel free to check out my work samples here https://copyfol.io/v/mnw7r7...

Unpopular Opinion

God is a God of all religions, including the African Traditional Religion (ATR)

by | Asiogu Ugochukwu

I have always believed that the beauty of religion lies in the peoples' unique ways and approaches of upholding it. In other words, religion is best practiced in situations where there are less criticisms of whatever one is revering and whoever one is worshiping. Of course, religion is a way of life and as a matter of fact, it is a representation of man's spiritualism - an aspect of man's lif...

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Score | 447

Queensley Okon

Information Officer @ Covenant University

Ota, Nigeria

1222

20670

182

In Music and Entertainment • 5 min read • Jul 11, 2022 12:39p.m.

AND I WILL ALWAYS COVER YOU...

AND I WILL ALWAYS COVER YOU...

Queensley Okon

0:00 / 0:00

428

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Cyrus Majebi

Lagos • 2 years, 5 months ago

A lot of good stuff here, nice

Hi, it's Queensley, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Virtual Assistant, Freelance Writer, and help with your academic research. Reach me here https://wa.me/2348167337301

Score | 395

Asiogu Ugochukwu

Global Security enthusiast

919

17276

In History and Culture • 3 min read • Oct 11, 2022 01:34a.m.

THE SYMBOLISM OF OJI IGBO (KOLA NUT) IN IGBO LAND

THE SYMBOLISM OF OJI IGBO (KOLA NUT) IN IGBO LAND

Asiogu Ugochukwu

0:00 / 0:00

Those who want freedom must embrace restraint, and those who want order must choose the...

376

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Hero James

Lagos • 2 years, 2 months ago

Daalu nwoke oma. Udo diri gi , A si na onye wetere oji wetere ndu. " Peace be unto you, He who brings kola nut brings life". A wo...

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Samuel Ibok

Marketing Supervisor @ Crusader Sterling Pensions Limited

Lagos, Nigeria

Sometimes things fall apart before they fall into place. In 2019, I was scarred for my life. I like to think of myself as a good judge of character, and I try to see the best in people, regardless of their potential to do evil. I remember the adrenaline rush I felt on the way to Gembu local government during the 2019 Presidential elections. When the election was postponed by a week, I and other corp members were left stranded at the collation center. I still have a video from that day. It was all laughter for us, and we used what we had just experienced to catch cruise. Just so you know, some officials wanted to leave us in the middle of nowhere. Imagine the madness. For the first time in my adult life, I thought I would be part of the history of my dear country. I played by the book during the elections. Oh yeah, I was one of the officers conducting the elections. Ladies and gentlemen of the press, what I witnessed changed my perception of governance, and I nearly lost hope in Nigeria. I remember some touts shouting at me for guiding people. They probably thought that I was telling people whom to vote for. Before I knew it, it got rowdy, and then boom, madness upon madness upon madness. I ran oooo! Woh, I cannot come and do patriotism and lose my life. I ran to some armed men to ask for help, and they told me they couldn't come. I was mad at them because I felt their presence could have tamed the madness. Well, I remembered then that having armed officials during elections is not a good image and could even result in violence. The voting was supposed to end around 2 p.m., but we were still there at 7 p.m. I thought the rain would make them leave, but they surrounded the hall we moved into. People were fighting up and down. What if I told you that I saw underage people voting? I witnessed things I can't write about for my safety! What if I told you that some Corp members were paid to rig the elections? I heard stories of corp members who cashed out during the elections and I may have innocently eaten out of it! In the days following the elections, a curfew was announced. We were all scared for our lives. It was difficult to get to PPA because we were frequently attacked by hoodlums on the way. The day we were to be paid at the INEC center, we heard sporadic gunshots. My biggest scare was the fact that I just called my friend to come collect his money. He took clips of the bandits, or should I say bad guys... I saw people with serious guns shooting on the road with no remorse. I sha think my friend was crazy because i was praying for his safety while he was doing journalist of the year. What crowned it all was the day I was caught up in violence and asked if I was Christian or Muslim. Whaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaat. I thought I had seen it all. I was so afraid that I couldn't feel my heartbeat. Did the Bible mean "fear not" or was it meant to be "fear North"? I thought I was going to die, and I still cringe when the thought flashes through my mind. What would make men take up arms and kill another man? On top wetin abeg... You'll take another man's life so your guy can become king. Strangely, your guy will still sly you in the end. Well, I'm alive and sharing my experience with you. So yeah, in as much as you have plans to vote, do yourself a solid by being very careful. The days before elections could be violent. There are people plotting chaos because Nigerians are enthusiastic about voting. We believe we stand a chance to cause real change, but it may cost us the lives of some people. That's the sad reality of things. Try to get back home in time. Wahala no get time but e de sweet for night. Let's swerve a bit. Resist the urge to quarrel in public, particularly over who will win the elections. Your life is more important than your vote. Keep your doors locked and be mindful of those around you. Have sufficient food in your house, and always have extra cash in your purse. It could save your life. Stay updated on the situation in the country. I mean, you should check the news often. You may think I'm being extreme, as though an apocalypse is about to happen. But it's best if you are ready because Nigeria can shock you. Election day is when you should be most careful. You are not required to inform everyone about your preferred candidate. Equally, ignore all appearances of evil. Be mindful of your environment because anyone can collect. And yeah, be careful online too. You may jokingly say, "Come to my house and beat me," but someone could trace you and deal with you. Finally, try de kabash before leaving home. In the end, let's all be careful and let the best candidate win. Hopefully!!!

In Nigeria • 4 min read • Feb 07, 2023 22:48p.m.

Twilight

Twilight

Samuel Ibok

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If you like my insights, you can encourage me by sending a TIP. Thank you!

408

Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

Score | 327

Samuel Ibok

Marketing Supervisor @ Crusader Sterling Pensions Limited

Lagos, Nigeria

Growing up, we were taught several virtues through songs. Writing this has brought back a lot of good memories. At home, school, and religious gatherings, certain virtues were communicated through songs. I somewhat think that it made it easier to remember those virtues because of the medium through which they were communicated. Think of this-- What if we applied this same strategy to the issue of climate change? I'm certain we have over a million songs on love, loyalty, politics, freedom, and others. For me, this would be a great strategy to grow our children—the future generations—with the climate in mind. I'm sure most of us only realized the concept of climate change as adults, and some are yet to understand it. There are a number of reasons for that, but that's not the point of this post. Imagine the good that we could have done if we knew this early in life. We cannot recover lost time, but we can consciously make better efforts. Whether or not you believe in climate change, I think it's reasonable to at least make better choices. Humans are very creative people, so I guess we can create songs and teach our children so they can grow up with a consciousness of the climate. Imagine if Africa's biggest artists had one track that focused on climate change in their albums! That'd be laudable, although it probably won't totally change people's mindsets. It's still a good start. Just so you know, climate change, according to the United Nations, refers to long-term shifts in temperatures and weather patterns. These shifts may be natural, such as through variations in the solar cycle. But since the 1800s, human activities have been the main driver of climate change, primarily due to the burning of fossil fuels like coal, oil, and gas. I believe we can change the world one stanza at a time! Alone we can do so little, together we can do so much. Learn Unlearn Relearn

In People and Society • 2 min read • Oct 03, 2022 08:36a.m.

Changing the world one stanza at a time

Changing the world one stanza at a time

Samuel Ibok

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If you like my insights, you can encourage me by sending a TIP. Thank you!

One thing I would tell you about Kanye is, there is no one like him. Man just knows how to sell himself and let his confidence flow without apologies. I once watched a video of him where he was asked why he stopped talking about "the culture" and he said he has turned his back on it because it celebrates things that lead you down a rabbit hole and there is no accountability (this is me interpreting what he said, it's a whole other vibe when you see it). He said the culture talks about "guns and shooting up a block" and got rappers talking about things that could get them locked up, then when they are released, they start touting "gun control and prison reform". Ironic, right? I totally agree 💯 Because why in God's name would you think that any of that is acceptable and then cry "oppression" I believe he was right when he said "slavery was a choice" and you can see the evidence of it everyday. Maybe the statement was a little controversial but let us examine some scenarios. First of all, have you ever heard that someone would come into your house and just make you a slave unless you have them access? Me neither If the "White Man" had the confidence to come and buy people from your country and in exchange, gave you a few shiny things, it means that is the idea you had sold to him. It means slavery was already prevalent. The idea that "we were all kings" is a facade because if we were all kings, who was being ruled? And who sold who to the white man? Let's jump to spending ability. A Foundational Black American would save up, wait in the queue to get the new pair of Jordans or whatever shoe brand was out, or the latest Chanel bag just to "look rich", while going back to sleep in a trailer or whatever dump he or she lives in. Then you tout "generational wealth" and how you are not getting enough allocation because the whites see you as less than. Have you taken a good look at your financial habits? What are your priorities? Or is it the music and over sexualized portrayal of your race which you seemingly enjoy and also complain about? Because why on earth are you getting a BBL every two working days, or draping yourself in all the gold or icy chains you can find just to portray a certain look? Why would you boast about shooting up a "nigga" or "bitch'' if they blink wrong, yelling"thug life" like it's supposed to be some sort of litany to the gods? Then you complain about getting shot by the cops, when the rate at which you kill yourselves is higher. You boast about it, you join gangs for whatever dumb reason and kill rival gangs just because. How about stop celebrating silly stuff and calling it "ART" because you desecrate that word on a daily.  Or is it the normalization of drug crimes and drug lords(well you get a pass because the Mexicans are the major players)but my goodness, have you seen the content displayed on the Shade room? The normalization of babymamas and absentee father's is appalling and the "ho" culture being celebrated(Diddy) is one for the books. What about when you find your fellow "black person" or "brotha or sista' going to school, getting a decent job and talking well, and earning well and you start mocking them or calling them names like "coon", "sellout" "corny" or say they are "talking white"? How about they are pronouncing the words well and not twisting it to what you deem necessary?Just two weeks ago, NORE of Drinkchamps podcast complained that the Black entertainers would always prefer to go to white news outlets to promote their stuff, instead of coming to black media.But why won't they? When you invite them on your show, it is to ask them questions that do not relate to their music, in a bid to stir up controversy and get "views". There is clearly a difference between white and black interviewers in terms of comfort and professionalism. Not everyone is comfortable with that and when they react, you say they aren't being "real".  Okay Real Housewife 🌝🌚😒😒Which brings me to my next point in these so called "reality shows" that help promote and reiterate the stereotypes you claim you do not like. All for entertainment and the paper, right? Yeah🌚 Or is it the racism displayed just as much, especially when you insult people who have the same skin tone as you, just because they are not in America, and when you get hit, you throw your silly hands in the air, and play the victim card? (Tariq, I see you dropout) You can be just as racist, even to "wypipo" as you call them Caucasians. Now, I am not saying the Whites are innocent in any of what has happened to the Blacks, because they have done a whole lot of nonsense and "Karens" are walking around scot free but can we actually do some introspection? Charity, we are told, begins at home, so why not start being accountable to yourselves and probably see how well things would pan out for you. The change starts from you and evolves. What did I forget to mention? How silly have these tantrums been and how long have they gone on? Or how wrong am I?

313

Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

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In History and Culture • 5 min read • Jun 23, 2022 12:33p.m.

IRONIC VICTIM MENTALITY OF THE FOUNDATIONAL BLACK AMERICAN

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Queensley Okon

0:00 / 0:00

When one gets into a conversation that leads to talking about the problems of Nigeria and proffering solutions, sooner than later, you realise that in analysing one problem, there is another problem that is connected to the initial one. Before even getting to the part of solutions, you realise that Nigeria is a myriad of problems interwoven and interconnected to each other like a spider's web. Corruption as it stands seems to be the biggest problem Nigeria is facing today. Corruption in Nigeria is a hydra. It is multifaceted and multilevel. From the head down to the tail, it's all infested. Let's look at a few cases. If we talk about the menace of police brutality, we'll all agree that there are laws which prevent these kinds of things from happening. Infact the Nigerian Police Force (NPF) has its rules of engagement which guides its activities and its interactions with members of the public, yet you still have members for the NPF acting with so much impunity and high-handedness. From this one problem, it is not difficult to notice that there are other issues which are directly related to it. Firstly, you find out that there is a lack of political will by those in the police higher ups as well as our political class to enforce the laws and regulations that guides the NPF to achieve the needed professionalism. This lack of political will also stems from the fact that those in the higher ups and political class benefit from the chaos that the unprofessionalism of the NPF creates which is another problem in itself. Another thing is that the people who bear the brunt of the recklessness, high-handedness and brutality of the NPF fail to stand up for themselves. For many reasons they allow themselves to be extorted, maligned and mistreated by members of the NPF. This can attributed to a high level of illiteracy, poverty and ignorance. The police brutality example is just one of many in the sea of problems we exist in and refer to as normal. While we started from corruption as a problem, we have now gotten to the point in this piece where we recognise illiteracy, poverty and ignorance as problems too. At this point whose fault is it? While some might argue that the government doesn't own total responsibility in creating wealth and employment, and also improve the educational standard of its country or locale, of which I agree that both government and citizenry have their own roles to play. We must realise that it is government's responsibility to form sound policies that will drive these sectors and create the enabling environment for them to thrive. Alas our government has failed to do just that. This is primarily so because the political class, like I mentioned earlier benefits from the chaos this lack creates. They have intentionally kept the people poor, hungry and beggarly, and have become experts at weaponising the widespread poverty. More recently, they have continued to intentionally reduce the standard of education by funding it less and creating policies that create bottlenecks for educational growth like that which the National Assembly passed a bill to remove history from the secondary schools' educational curriculum. In developed countries, government ensures the prosperity of its people and by extension its nation by educating its people and ensuring their presperity, while the Nigerian leaders, a political class bereft of ideas does everything within its power to ensure its people are poor and illiterate so that there will be no one smart and bold enough to challenge it while ensuring its perpetuity as the gate keepers of power. The ignorant and poor masses who can't stand up to its slavers, and will do their bidding for the biblical pot of porridge is who the political class refer to as their POLITICAL STRUCTURE. Anything other than this is a threat. This is why a prosperous and educated citizenry will never appeal to the greedy and inept who continue to invent new ways to perpetuate its hold on political power.

314

Hi, it's Queensley, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Virtual Assistant, Freelance Writer, and help with your academic research. Reach me here https://wa.me/2348167337301

Score | 451

Tari Ogbowei

Content Writer and contributor @ TwoCents

Yenagoa, Nigeria

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In Politics • 3 min read • Oct 07, 2022 23:59p.m.

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0:00 / 0:00

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Samuel Ibok

Marketing Supervisor @ Crusader Sterling Pensions Limited

Lagos, Nigeria

If you don't believe that the pen is mightier than the sword, then I urge you to come to Lagos. In Lagos, those with markers are more powerful than law enforcement! The Owó dà phenomenon is one that is deeply rooted in society, and many have accepted it without a fight. At every bus stop, you would find these foot soldiers, whose bosses many are afraid to name. They extort money from taxi drivers in the face of law enforcement. The only time they are scared is when there's an armed soldier (staff) in the buses or cabs. In some parts of Lagos, these guys would threaten to hit bike men with rods if they didn't show them love (pay money). Naaaaah, it's crazy and unacceptable, but it's our daily reality. They basically reap where they don't sow. Who did this to us? How long will we remain silent? Should we continue to suffer so that Owó dà may prevail? This Owó dà menace is the new means of employment for frustrated youths living in Lagos. I think the government should intervene now before we all lose what's left of our sanity. These Owó dà soldiers should be taken to a rehabilitation home and trained on essential skills or given jobs. Sincerely, they need a mental shift. When the center can no longer hold, things fall apart. We're slowly establishing the right to be extorted, and it's wrong on all sides. These young lads are supposed to be our future, but it seems they may be our end. #Ówòdàmuststop

In Nigeria • 2 min read • Nov 12, 2022 07:44a.m.

Ówó dà (where is the money)

Ówó dà (where is the money)

Samuel Ibok

0:00 / 0:00

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I dare digital marketers or social media managers to argue with me on this. I was born, bred, and established in advertising, this is the first line of my bio on my portfolio and it is the truest statement I have ever made. I was born at the age when people who worked in advertising were some of the coolest people to walk the face of the business world. A time when people sacrificed their personal and family time to tell their client’s brand stories and create unified beautiful memories for customers that lasted the test of time. Time when visiting my father’s agency was the most exciting thing for me as a young child and watching them work would always make me marvel.’ Advertising is no longer what it used to be. I can say this over and over again…I weep when I see billboards or hear radio adverts these days…Like ‘how on earth did we get here’. I am tempted to drag brands but I’ll leave that for another post. It is almost depressing to watch the creative ingenuity that used to dwell in the world of advertising fall so badly; to see how real creativity has been replaced for mediocrity and how visual craftsmanship has been discarded because everyone is busy chasing after algorithms and big data or how people who have no business leading agencies, people who are simply voracious consumers of the internet and loud noise makers on social platforms have designed themselves ‘digital marketers’ and are dragging the art down to the mud. When my dad and I talk about work these days, our stories would always start with ‘back in the days’ and end with ‘oh the good old times’ because there is hardly anything new to stand as a reference for good and proper advertising. Some brands are trying their best, struggling and holding onto the thin threads left of what advertising used to be but really, in all truth, the true art of advertising is dead. The advertising that brought us memorable and iconic campaigns has been upended and now we are left with the low effort, low budget, ‘how hard can it be’ campaigns that reveal how truly the mighty men of advertising have fallen. How the advertising industry used creative imagination to achieve commercial impact was something we used to be in awe of. How bright minds would gather, tell stories, and dig deep into their repertoires to harness craft and skills that gave us things to laugh at, to cry at, and to remember for good. The ads back then were more than ads, they were exceptional pieces rich in art, storytelling, and innovation that left lasting impressions. They entertained, informed, and influenced changes in their time. Think of Mama Do Good- Indomie1 or "Papilo" by Peak when they harnessed the story of a young man who rose from grass to grace and infused it into the reality of so many Nigerians that it felt so much like drinking peak milk was all we needed in life to make it. Remember ‘Boom sha sha" by Mimee Noodles or "To me, to me" by Indomie. The ad was more than just a sales pitch for Indomie but a relatable idea about making the world a better place. Many children and adults who downloaded the jingle solely for listening enjoyment were motivated by it, and the sound of that music continues to this day to bring back pleasant recollections of earlier times. What about Step by Step" by Blue Band, this stirs so many memories that sometimes you are moved to tears. There is"Cowbell our milk" by Cowbell or "B without BB" by Blue Band. Oh…the good old times!Now, I am not done...there's a whole lot to be said about this topic...stay tuned for the second part!

401

Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

Score | 503

Esther Omemu

Design Associate @ Hera Marketing

Lagos, Nigeria

700

7933

In Content Creators • 3 min read • Jan 20, 2023 18:42p.m.

The True Art of Advertising is Dead! (Part 1)

The True Art of Advertising is Dead! (Part 1)

Esther Omemu

0:00 / 0:00

Toluwanimi Jewel A

Jefferson Nnadiekwe

Samuel Ibok

Since May 2015, when President Buhari assumed office, it has felt like the Niger Republic, one of Nigeria's neighbours to the North is Nigeria's 37th state. The quantity and quality of gifts as well as investments the Nigerian government has made to and in Niger Republic is mind boggling. In Feb, 2020, it was reported that the Federal Government of Nigeria had approved $80.6m for the construction of roads from Jigawa and Sokoto states to the border of Niger Republic. A year later in February 2021, another $1.96bn was approved for a railway line from Kano to Maradi in Niger Republic. The justification for these two projects is to boost trade and investment between both countries. Nigeria would earn revenue through expansion of trade and commerce, while the people of Niger Republic will benefit from the ease of transportation logistics at affordable cost in their import and export business. A government which basically doesn't care about the transportation needs of its citizens obviously cares for the needs of those in another country. Let's pretend to believe the excuse, what about the recent #1.4bn vehicle gift that came to light two (2) days ago. It is purported that it was to help strengthen Niger's fight against insecurity. Nigeria, a country which has been plagued with dire security issues for years now is helping another country fight insecurity. 🤔 Nigeria, the poverty capital of the world is gifting vehicles worth #1.4bn to Niger. As if that isn't bad enough, one would assume that the vehicles would be military grade like Armoured Personnel Carriers (APCs), MRAPs or even Light Utility Vehicles only to find out that Buhari gifted Niger Republic, 2022 model, Toyota Land cruiser V8. What is the role of luxury vehicles in fighting insecurity? It is an understatement to say something is amiss. The impunity with which this government conducts itself is unprecedented. The Nigerian government under President Buhari has continually toyed with the sensibilities of Nigerians while probably assuming us all to be fools. What beats all of these is the Nigerian government's decision to transport crude to Niger for refining. In November, 2020, the Nigerian government signed an MoU of $2bn to transport crude oil via pipelines to be refined in Niger so we can buy refined products from them. It will interest you to know that Nigeria has four refineries with a refining capacity of 450,000 bpd while Niger has a refining capacity of 20,000 bpd. It is quite interesting to know that our government has the resources to run and maintain a piping system from the Niger Delta all the way to Niger Republic but has no resources to revitalise our own refineries which will reduce Nigeria's high rate of unemployment and ultimately poverty. In light of all this, one begins to wonder if Niger Republic is an annex of Nigeria or Nigeria's 37th state or maybe, an entire region in the country. Maybe, we should it call it the "North North". This queer romance between the Nigerian government and Niger Republic beats reason and defies science. The Nigerian government has invested billions of dollars in Niger, another sovereign country since 2015 but can't boast of investing $500m in the entire South East region. As painful as this is, it shouldn't surprise anyone. President Buhari already has a precedent of choosing ethnicity over country when he became the first and only President and Head of state in the history of modern international relations to vote against his own country in favour of his tribe in 1985 when he secured the election of Ide Oumarou, a Fulani man from Niger as opposed to Peter Onu, an Igbo man from Nigeria for the position of Secretary-General of the Organisation of African Union (OAU). In very recent times, he has told Nigerians that he has relations in Niger and without ambiguity stated that Nigeria's resources under him will be used to service the well being of his Niger relations. All in all, Buhari is not a politician and has no regard for party affiliations or how his actions affect his party's chances in the forthcoming elections. He is rather a tribal chief and a despot with no respect for international boundaries when it comes to his tribe.

478

Comments

Oluseyi Vandy

Lagos • 1 year, 11 months ago

I remember the era of blueband, wilson teamate bread, indomie, knor even sky banks and guiness era then. Art

Hi, it's Esther, thanks for reading my insights.

A creative writer born, bred and established in art of advertising...Feel free to check out my work samples here https://copyfol.io/v/mnw7r7...

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Queensley Okon

Ota • 2 years, 6 months ago

This makes a lot of sense

Hi, it's Jefferson, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a creative screenwriter, photographer, cinematographer and creative director. You can check out some of my works here https://instagram.com/themi...

Score | 313

Tari Ogbowei

Content Writer and contributor @ TwoCents

Yenagoa, Nigeria

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In Politics • 3 min read • Aug 05, 2022 19:59p.m.

ETHNICITY OVER COUNTRY: THE NIGER ROMANCE

ETHNICITY OVER COUNTRY: THE NIGER ROMANCE

Tari Ogbowei

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Samuel Ibok

Marketing Supervisor @ Crusader Sterling Pensions Limited

Lagos, Nigeria

Read with your mind! One of the crazy things about the post-Covid era is the discussion about the ideal work environment. While we await the winner between bedrooms and boardrooms, it is clear that the future of work has forever changed. It's okay if you have a divergent opinion. Remote work has drastically changed the perception of work and the income game between distinct jobs. This may feel like an exaggeration, but I believe that most people may prefer remote work if it pays well and gives them a sense of "freedom." Would onsite jobs go extinct? My answer is no because some jobs require physical presence and AIs haven't been incorporated into every field. The great thing is that bedrooms have become boardrooms, all thanks to technology. You just have to get yourself an optimized workstation. This leads to my next point regarding the efficacy of doing remote work. My argument is not rooted in science but in the experiences of others and mine. I feel the novelty of remote work in many corners of the world is still largely misunderstood. Similarly, it's very tricky in the sense that it can give you the false impression that you have a lot of free time. Well, it may depend on the content of their jobs. I think companies should create milestones for employees working remotely to keep them in check. I mean, if I can get the job done in 3 hours at any point during the week, I might as well procrastinate the task. Think about it. I equally think managing people working remotely is tricky, as the human connection may be absent. Well, I guess that's where hybrid work comes in. On the other side, if the task can be executed remotely, then companies should make allowances for that. It would save the employee money on transportation and save the company some costs. That's Nigeria speaking through me! I guess onsite work gives employers the impression that they are in control. "Employee wey wan run you street go still succeed ooo." Lol. I guess part of the worry employers have is that there are just too many distractions out there, and remote work gives employees the opportunity to utilize these distractions. Well, there's a valid point there, but it is what it is. The post-covid workspace has taken on a new dimension as companies have transitioned from the traditional desk-chair-monitor setup to something more disruptive. In other words, "they've brought the bedroom into the boardroom or incorporated the bedroom into the design of the boardroom." This changes everything, and it makes employees more efficient. You can say it's still to ensure that employees come onsite! We're now seeing more sustainable workspaces designed specifically for optimization. It's now very clear that little things like having a small flower on a desk or having more colors, humorous pictures, and some crazy pieces of furniture can influence employees positively. Even personnel management has changed due to remote work. One common denominator in the preceding lines is "evolve" or "change." It makes one think about the future of work. Have we seen it all? Screenshot your answer and check back in two years! Random thought: Imagine a remote VR workspace modeled after a company's on-site workspace. Now imagine team bonding in a VR workspace! Imagine if there were spectacles that gave an updated version of whatever you looked at. By implication, there'd be no trenches. I think it would change the meaning of luxury. I just made your mind SWERVE! #Swerve#Learn Unlearn Relearn#LEarn

In Companies and Firms • 3 min read • Jan 05, 2023 09:13a.m.

Bedrooms and Boardrooms

Bedrooms and Boardrooms

Samuel Ibok

0:00 / 0:00

Queensley Okon

Asiogu Ugochukwu

If you like my insights, you can encourage me by sending a TIP. Thank you!

540

Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

Score | 329

Jefferson Nnadiekwe

Freelance scriptwriter and creative photographer

Lagos, Nigeria

Let's talk about the man of the moment, in Nigeria. None other than Mr. Peter Obi. The presidential flag bearer of the Labour party. Mr. Obi enjoys an overwhelming amount of support from the Nigerian citizens, something I'm sure even he never expected. He is the one the people seem to have chosen as the messiah to lead the country to a glorious rebirth. It's quite a good thing to witness. Nigerians look to wage war against ineffective leadership, and Peter Obi is the weapon which has been chosen. The question I often ponder is: Is Peter Obi being set up to fail, should he eventually win the forthcoming election? Before you come for me, let me explain the reason behind that thought. Whether or not we like to agree, we live in a country were citizens actively dodge responsibility and avoid accountability. A country were majority look for ways to cut corners and short change each other. Also, whether we like it or not, these are some of the resistance to a working country. An average supporter of Peter Obi, believes that all would be okay with him becoming president. What that supporter fails to realize is that for that change to happen, we all need to work in accordance to his vision. I was in a discussion with a friend few days ago, and in that conversation, I mentioned the eagerness of Nigerians to bend the rules. In all I said, her response was you cannot change people or tell them how to act. Seems to me like an excuse for bad behavior. If we cannot change people, what is the chance that they would respect and adhere to the policies of a president who has a good intention. Another worrying thing, is that we do not seem to bother about the other government offices closer to us. Offices such as that of the governor, house of representatives, local government chairman and councillor, are all too important in the development of a society. If these other officials are not in line with the vision of Mr. Obi, there's little change which can be effected. Nigerians claim to be tired of the APC and PDP, but seem to be okay with them producing the governors of the various states. Why are we not clamouring for deserving candidates as governors too? Do we really expect an PDP governor to fully support a Labour party president. Truth is, they would likely do all within their power to sabotage his government. We cannot afford to ignore other offices of government. If truly we want Peter Obi to succeed, we must be willing to put in the effort. Take our civic responsibility seriously, be accountable and obedient to the rules. We must ensure that he is surrounded with like minded politicians at every level, who would work with him, rather than against him. Failure to do these, is tantamount to setting him up for failure. I hope we take necessary action for the love of Obi!

In Politics • 2 min read • Jul 05, 2022 11:32a.m.

FOR THE LOVE OF OBI

FOR THE LOVE OF OBI

Jefferson Nnadiekwe

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In what sounds like the recollection of a bad dream, it's all over the news that, a former Deputy Senate President, Ike Ekweramadu and his wife, Beatrice have been arrested in the UK on charges bordering human trafficking and organ harvesting from a child. As horrific and disgraceful this may seem, stemming from the fact that this man is a political leader and a senator of the Federal Republic since 1999 and as such represents the country, it's government and it's people to the outside world, you'd expect that someone of this standing will carry himself in a manner that depicts class and exudes respect. This doesn't seem to be the case among the Nigerian political class. Time and again, it has been proven that most of the political class encourage, aid and abett crime as it benefits their elitist goals. Other times, they're directly involved. When their stooges are caught, they use their influence to cover it all up and before long the matter is swept under the carpet. They have weaponised poverty in the land, rob us blind of our shared patrimony and still take the little we have left for their benefit. As if that's not enough, they have brazenly began to kill us like chicken in a pen. Last year, David Hundeyin, an independent journalist and the founder of West Africa Weekly who became popular for his sensational article, "Cornflakes for Jihad: The Boko Haram Origin Story" did an investigative piece on Hiny Umoren's murder by Frank Akpan which led to an exposé on the involvement of some highly placed individuals and a policeman, a DPO, SP Samuel Ezeugo who claimed to have arrested the suspect. The article pieced together that she may have been the victim of a clandestine operation of an organ harvesting syndicate, either for the purpose of rituals or organ sales on the international black market. Whichever the case was, David Hundeyin made it a point to note that politicians and other highly placed individuals in society were in on it. The Akwa-Ibom state command of the Nigerian Police Force made a very poor attempt at covering up the crime as well as the offenders by refusing to investigate and pinning it entirely on one man when it was obvious he wasn't alone. A few weeks later, no one hears about the case. Most likely swept under the carpet, the suspect released and everything back to normal. Life goes on. This ability to get away with almost everything, is one of those things that make the political class so powerful and almost untouchable. It must be what informed our "dearly beloved" Ekweramadu's crass decision to take a child to London, a place which does take crimes against women, children and the disabled lightly, for the purpose of organ harvesting. London is definitely not Nigeria and he's supposed to know better. In this developing story, the child is a 15 year old who was taken to London by Mr. and Mrs. Ekweramadu off the streets of Lagos. The case has been adjourned to July 7th while the couple will be remanded in prison as they've been denied bail. This is definitely not Nigeria. We can definitely expect more names and indictments as this has to go beyond he and his wife alone. Is he involved in a syndicate of organ traffickers? What is his motive for this dastardly act? Whatever it is, there is no justification for harvesting an organ from a minor or anyone who can't legally give consent. Everyday for the thief, one day for the owner.

321

Hi, it's Jefferson, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a creative screenwriter, photographer, cinematographer and creative director. You can check out some of my works here https://instagram.com/themi...

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Comments

Mano Whiskey

2 years, 2 months ago

Nice one Samuel!! Our parents tried their best given their knowledge and means. It is left for us to relearn and do better for our parent...

Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

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In Politics • 3 min read • Jun 23, 2022 21:13p.m.

EVERYDAY FOR THE THIEF, ONE DAY FOR THE OWNER

EVERYDAY FOR THE THIEF, ONE DAY FOR THE OWNER

Tari Ogbowei

0:00 / 0:00

968

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Jefferson Nnadiekwe

Freelance scriptwriter and creative photographer

Lagos, Nigeria

There is this popular notion amongst Nigerians; 'you never know a person until he has money'. Another one goes 'money changes people'. On surface level, these seem to be true. But a deeper scrutiny may prove otherwise. A really important question to ask ourselves is: does money actually change people, or does it give them the opportunity to become who they truly are? A lot of times, I've had people say that money makes people proud and arrogant. The truth is, a man who suddenly seems arrogant when he gets money, has always been arrogant. The only difference is, he was in a state of lack before. And we all know that when someone is in need, he has to swallow his pride in order to receive aid. But when he becomes successful, and can afford most of his needs, there is no need to swallow any pride. Hence, making a naturally proud person revert to his nature. With every man, there is who he appears to be and who he truly is. Certain factors however determine which face he wears. True humility, does not require the presence or absence of money. But true humility is a tad difficult to attain. Most people who seem humble, are 'forced' to be. It's not innate, it is just merely a form of adaptation. The weird thing is, a lot of people cannot tell the difference, even in themselves. When I say humility, I do not mean the absence of pride, but rather the ability to channel and control that pride. After all, every man should have a measure of pride. A man who is genuinely humble and nice, remains the same, irrespective of his financial status. Do not be deceived by those who act nice and are eager to please in order to gain favours. These set of people are not nice; a nice person does not have to try to convince you. The thing with money is that, it is a confidence booster. And as such, it allows us become ourselves with no apologies. It enhances our true self, and allows us shed whatever mask that we may have had on. So, no. The truth for me is that money does not change people. I would however like to know what you think..

In People and Society • 2 min read • Jun 21, 2022 13:37p.m.

Money and its power to unmask

Money and its power to unmask

Jefferson Nnadiekwe

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370

Hi, it's Jefferson, thanks for reading my insights.

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Score | 334

Samuel Ibok

Marketing Supervisor @ Crusader Sterling Pensions Limited

Lagos, Nigeria

Dear woke people, Wake up! This post represents my thoughts, and this post is not for everyone. Let me start by saying that it is becoming increasingly difficult to live as a normal person in this mad world. Yes, the woke march hasn't been fully embraced in Africa, but those of us who see it can identify little patches. Woke.com is gradually gaining more followers, and if you haven't subscribed, they'll come for you. There is nothing crazier than the idea of relativism in the context of gender, sexuality, and culture; you can add the rest yourself. If everything is relative, then perhaps we have all been fooled since birth. The uninformed and the informed are the most dangerous! Those who, with words, make others build towers leading to the heavens My advice is to stay dogged, irrespective of eloquence. Sometimes you must protect your ignorance, as it may be your innocence. Besides, unapologetic doesn't mean intelligent! Don't accommodate ideals you don't understand or aren't comfortable with. We've told people their words count, irrespective of how uninformed their opinions are. It's basically the "fence mentality" we're pushing. I wonder how our people fare in climes where wokeness is democracy. Well, who am I to judge? I could be wrong, but is wrong not right depending on the beholder? I mean, right and wrong are on a spectrum. I hope you got the joke! I feel free speech gives room to wrong speech. These days, we can't correct people without being called names. This is my TwoCents to woke people. Learn Unlearn Relearn

In People and Society • 2 min read • Nov 09, 2022 11:27a.m.

Dear woke people, Wake up!

Dear woke people, Wake up!

Samuel Ibok

0:00 / 0:00

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Make no mistake, Nigeria’s greatest politician since 1999 is on the ballot for President in this election. He has huge support, has overcome heavy opposition to get to where he is, and will likely win the elections. We shall be unmasking him in this article. In Part 1, we established that a politician is not great because they can win elections by any means possible, including violence, vote-buying, and rigging. Instead, they are great if their track records can instill so much confidence in electorates, that they are willing to commit resources to see that politician serve them. To see how we arrived at that conclusion, you may read Part 1 here: <a href="https://tinyurl.com/yc85ywzz">https://tinyurl.com/yc85ywzz</a> The 3 leading candidates in this presidential election have all served in public office: Bola Tinubu was Lagos state governor between 1999-2007. Since then, he has stayed within the National limelight, something he enjoys as a former governor of the economic capital of Nigeria. Atiku Abubakar was Vice President from 1999-2007. He has been contesting for president since 1993. Peter Obi assumed office as governor of Anambra state in 2006. He is a surprise frontrunner. Election seasons are when the books of politicians are opened. Promises are weighed against past works. Investigations are conducted into their politics, businesses, families, and associates. As a result, Nigerians are more informed about the candidates today than we were 9 months ago. And in 4 days, we will be called to cast our votes for who we trust based on their records. And events so far indicate that the 3 leading candidates are not all faring the same in the national consciousness. Bola Tinubu’s indictment for laundering drug money in the USA, and allegations of perjuring his educational records have been at the front of his campaign. His proud reputation as shadow governor of Lagos now haunts him as he is being accused of continuing to control and siphon the state government’s finances. There are concerns he will do the same to the country. His loudest supporters are career criminals and fantastically corrupt politicians – like governor Ganduje of Kano state whose video of collecting wads of dollars in kickbacks is in the public space. Tinubu has not categorically denied any of the allegations made against him. In fact, he has shunned media scrutiny and has often sounded annoyed that people dare to challenge his ambition. Beyond the allegations, his campaign has focused on his achievements in Lagos. Except that most of the “achievements” are from his time as shadow governor, and not when he was the executive governor of the state. Atiku Abubakar’s corruption cases have come to the fore again, including leaked emails and calls where he discussed siphoning money through SPVs as the VP. He has not categorically denied those emails and calls since they came out. His biggest claims of performance as VP have been refuted by former ministers who served with him. Instead, his shambolic handling of the FG asset privatisation drive has lingered in public memory. Nigerians don’t want him to “sell the country to his friends”. Mr. Peter Obi is currently the leading candidate according to most polls. He has been accused of investing Anambra state money into organizations linked to him. However, unlike his two other main opponents, he has repeatedly shown up to deny bad intentions, even offering his financial records to anyone willing to investigate, to prove that he never profited from any investment the state made while he was its chief executive. Beyond that, he has proved to be the cleanest politician on the ballot. He has challenged anybody to bring evidence of corruption against him, and he will stop campaigning. None have been brought forward so far. Mr. Peter Obi’s acute diagnoses of Nigeria’s problems, and his achievements as governor on a shoestring budget – all verifiable from news reports and government records during the period – have massively contributed to his growing popularity. So, how has the public responded so far? Most polls by reputable bodies show that Mr. Peter Obi is in a healthy lead – with many polls showing double-digit margins beyond his opponents. ANAP Foundation is one of the polling bodies which have pointed to a Peter Obi lead. Their polls have correctly predicted the winners of the past 3 presidential elections, and even recently predicted the gubernatorial elections in Osun and Ekiti states in 2022. However, we already established in Part 1 that surveys can be misleading. So let’s look at the actions of the market: An average Peter Obi video or news report on YouTube has at least 2X more views than any of his main opponents. His tweets average 10k likes and retweets and sometimes reach as high as 60k-100k. The other “bigger” opponents rarely ever reach the 5k mark. But then again, his popularity on social media may be waved away by some as a fad. So, here’s another interesting phenomenon in this cycle: Before the campaigns, Obi was mocked by career politicians for lacking elite support. He was asked how he will fund his campaigns. Regular Nigerians responded by crowdfunding for him to ensure that he lacks nothing. His campaign’s budget is clearly smaller than his opponents, but every day, common Nigerians are fundraising to support one rural outreach or radio jingle and to pay the medical bills of supporters who were attacked by opponents of APC and PDP. You can observe these on Twitter. His supporters realized that the party lacks the extensive structure to push his candidacy over the line, so Nigerians are committing their time, money, and material resources to visit far-away towns. They are travelling to their villages and coming down from other countries to ensure that they talk to people and get them to see why Obi is better. If you agree that a great politician is one who can inspire people to look forward to his service, who would you regard as the greatest of the 3 leading presidential candidates? Vote that person for President.

326

Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

Score | 1226

Chinomso Uzoeto

Growth Marketing @ TwoCents

Lagos, Nigeria

789

5577

In Politics • 4 min read • Feb 21, 2023 11:10a.m.

Unmasking the Greatest Politician to Run for President Since 1999 - Part 2

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You may have heard or watched the news from Uganda on the most recent scandal where Ministers shared government aid that was meant for relief for one of the remotest places in Uganda - the Karamoja region. For clarity, this is the area with the highest rates of illiteracy, and economic development and with a semi-arid climate that has hampered their agricultural space and has always influenced their life as nomadic pastoralists. During the affirmative action discussions, the legislators saw it fit to create a Cabinet Ministerial position for Karamoja Affairs. Recently the Minister sought a supplementary budget to purchase iron sheets for the region in form of aid. The money was allegedly shared amongst some legislators and ministers through corridors of power. This led to the arrest of some of the Ministers during the last 2 weeks. It should be noted that these Ministers and legislators belong to the ruling party - the National Resistance Movement. Earlier, the ruling party had sought to abolish the constitutional right to bail for certain political wrongs inclusive of corruption. This move was a political strategy engineered to ensure the opposition politicians under certain charges do not get access to the right to bail and as such stay in the cells for as long as the political power structures agree otherwise. The irony is that now the same ministers face the same stand off with many of them have failed to meet the bail requirement. Well, that is what has been in Uganda. Share any similar scandal from where you are across Africa. Please share certain insights on how such scandals may be handled by the courts of law with respect to bail and whether such offenses should be bailable.

1208

Score | 426

Ntamugabumwe Victor

Kampala, Uganda

446

1933

In Politics • 2 min read • Apr 22, 2023 13:14p.m.

WHEN LAW MEETS POLITICS - UGANDA MINISTERS' SCANDAL AND RIGHT TO BAIL

WHEN LAW MEETS POLITICS - UGANDA MINISTERS' SCA...

Ntamugabumwe Victor

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405

Score | 318

Samuel Ibok

Marketing Supervisor @ Crusader Sterling Pensions Limited

Lagos, Nigeria

I stood there pondering with a smirk on my face. Why is he so slow but so skilled? He waited patiently for his catch, while I was furious for applying all the steps in the fishing playbook without any result. What irritated me the most was the calm that surrounded the old man. He made it look like it was nothing. At least show a bit of frustration so we could all bond over that pain! He didn't flinch. Even when the storm came, he seemed so relaxed. At one point, I just had to confront him for his stillness, and I asked him why with my mouth and eyes. His exact words were "expect adversity, embrace the storm, and become one with the sea," and then I rudely interrupted him. I left the pep talk too early, I guess. A few minutes later, I felt a pull, and my eyes lightened like the sunset. I had finally made a catch. My first fish! Everyone seemed happy for me, and boom, my eyes, and the old man's eyes crossed paths. He still had that poker face, and he winked at me. That wink caused a mental SWERVE, which made everything clear. His words echoed in the chambers of my mind, and my heart skipped. I think the Holy Book should have also asked us to study the sea and learn from it! Life is in many ways like the sea. The uncertainties are unlimited, and the outcome of things is not always based on our actions and inactions. Sometimes we do everything right, but everything ends up wrong. In other cases, we somehow feel entitled to win because we didn't skip a step. "Morality doesn't guarantee victory, and good people also lose"—don't forget that. Sometimes the storm comes after the calm, or vice versa. It's safer to expect adversity and plan for it. However, "remember that life is better prepared than we are!" So yeah, embrace the storm because it is an advantage. Besides, "you don't learn to surf on still waters." The reality of life is that it could change in a second (either positively or negatively). "The old man is one with the sea."While experience is not exactly expertise, years on the road would teach you a few things about traffic signs. "Time reveals, light shines, and light blinds." Some of life's most valuable lessons become clear after a storm. It may have been sour for you, but it could be a template or a course for someone else. "Stand still and Ink your journeys" The sea is not the enemy, depending on what you see. Youthful zeal without knowledge is like wildfire.  #Swerve Learn Unlearn Relearn #LEarn

In People and Society • 2 min read • Jan 05, 2023 15:33p.m.

The Old Man and the Sea

The Old Man and the Sea

Samuel Ibok

0:00 / 0:00

Queensley Okon

Asiogu Ugochukwu

If you like my insights, you can encourage me by sending a TIP. Thank you!

Formally known as Christognus Ezebuiro Obinna, born in 1947,, Sir Warrior hails from Umuhu, Enyiogugu in present day Aboh Mbaise Local Government Area of Imo State. It is on record that as a young boy, this fine gentleman believed that God created him to sing and it was in a bid to pursue his dream that he became a member of a men's choral group with a unique specialty in a music form called 'Ese'. By the time Sir Warrior became sixteen years old, he was well known for his amazing voice and beautiful performance of Ese music. Christognus Ezebuiro at twenty -four had already registered a significant trademark with his special genre of highlife music which blended Congolese guitar packing and traditional Igbo rhythms and proverbs. Sir Warrior, at some point in his career, was the leader of the Oriental Brothers International Band which dominated the Nigerian highlife music stage for many decades. Described as a Nigerian boy band formed after the Nigerian civil war (1967 - 1970), it is believed that the band and all of its players helped draw Igbo people out of post -civil war misery through its melodious and deeply expressive songs that reflected life's realities as well as the social happenings in the society. His 1975 album entitled - "Nwa Ada Di Mma" with eight song tracks broughr him much accolades and recognition globally. Also his usage of Igbo proverbs and in his songs was appreciated by his fans such that he earned the title "The Ultimate Star of Music". It also made people see him as one of the greatest Igbo highlife musicians of the 20th century. Sir Warrior died in 1999 at fifty -two years. He is survived by his wife, two sons and brother. Some of his masterpiece include: Uwa Chia Chia, Uwa Sef, Udo ma Ike, Ome mma, Madu Mezie Ndu Ya, Ndi ji ego, Chi awu otu, Anri Aku, Gi nyem ugwum, Hapum Meberi, and the likes. Sir Warrior was indeed a warrior of songs. He will forever be remembered.

304

Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

Score | 463

Asiogu Ugochukwu

Global Security enthusiast

919

17276

In History and Culture • 2 min read • Feb 03, 2023 10:32a.m.

A Discourse on Imo's Renowned Musical Maestro - Sir Warrior

A Discourse on Imo's Renowned Musical Maestro -...

Asiogu Ugochukwu

0:00 / 0:00

Most times I am intrigued by the level at which I become engrossed with world culture and traditions. Although, my interest in studying different cultures and traditional norms and values of societies across the globe surprises me sometimes such that I begin to question what my true calling is in life: was I really meant to be a LOCAL man or a traditionalist as most Africans would say, the knowledge and joy I derive in understanding the elements and root of a people's existence, keeps me going. There are a myriad of cultures and traditions in the world that testify to people's lifestyles and practices. While some of these cultures and traditions are seen as normal, others are perceived as abnormal or even weird as the case may be. A lot of times, I get baffled whenever culture is interpreted with bias especially when some cultures are treated as more important than others. To me, all cultures speak to the history and originality of people's existence. Hence, there should be no yardstick to determine whether a culture is strange or not. But wait a minute, does this mean there are no cultures and traditions that are quite 'interesting' and somewhat propelling than others? Of course, the answer is in the negative. So, in this article, we will take a look at two interesting world cultural practices that you probably have not heard about. The first one is the Bullet Ant Initiation popularly practiced by the Satere-Mawe tribe in Brazil. This cultural practice is carried out to ascertain the readiness of boys for manhood. For the people, a boy does not become a man unless he can withstand being stung by a swarm of bullet Ants. What? This reminds me of a certain time I climbed an orange tree in my father's compound back in the village and was unfortunately attacked by ants. It was a hellish experience. But yet, it cannot be compared to being stung by a SWAM of BULLET Ants! Well, who am I to decide for the Satere-Mawe tribe on how to train their boys to become stronger men? Interestingly, the Bullet Ant Initiation is usually carried out with the belief that any boy who is able to endure the pains without a single tear in his eyes is fit to be described as a man. Another interesting thing to note about this tradition is that it is repeated continuously until the boy or boys in question is able to endure the torture. What a painful way to become a man? Oh my goodness. Is having the male genitals no longer enough reason to make a man a full man? Oh! Wetin man so man? Furthermore, the one that even makes me more feverish is the "Carrying of a wife over burning coals" in China. Commonly practiced with the belief that the exercise will help the wife experience painless labour as well as prevent natural disasters, it is believed that this practice happens whenever a husband and wife are newly married and prepared to step into their new home and also whenever the wife is pregnant. However, what makes me a little bit confused is why it is the husband who is expected to walk barefoot on the burning coals with his wife on his back? At this point, I ask myself, who needs the effects of the hot coal more? Aren't both the husband and wife supposed to take the majestic walk together as a united home? Wonderful. What a painful way of avoiding painless labour as a natural disaster? Tell me what you think about these practices in line with their powerful impacts on people's existence in general.

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Score | 361

Asiogu Ugochukwu

Global Security enthusiast

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17276

In History and Culture • 3 min read • Feb 15, 2024 14:15p.m.

The local world of local people

The local world of local people

Asiogu Ugochukwu

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Samuel Ibok

340

Score | 432

Samuel Ibok

Marketing Supervisor @ Crusader Sterling Pensions Limited

Lagos, Nigeria

I like ladies. I said that with my full chest. Besides, what's not to like? From how they are able to keep you smiling even when you're pissed (even if na dem vex you sha) or how their warmth just makes you feel like you're in heaven. Imagine a world without ladies. It'll be full of sausages! I hope you didn't get that! I'm sure there are others who like ladies and act it out. I remember my neighbor and his babe's situationship. There were several violent nights, and I was certain he would be on Santa's naughty list. I can recall the number of times he beat her up. Hold on. She was well off and had a steady source of income, but she always returned. I kept wondering why she stayed. Is it that people enjoy pain, or have they been hurt so much that they can't get enough of it? Abi, is it a turn-on? I remember this one time he threw an iron rod at her, and it just missed her face. Imagine the damage that could have been caused. The crazy thing is that she still came back that night. Don't ask me how I know! I heard her voice! I'm sure you've heard of other similar cases where the guy consistently abuses the lady and she still sticks with him. I don't think that's love. In fact, it's the epitome of evil. I mean, a reasonable adult can tell if someone is right or wrong for them. Maybe they are big on the tricky narrative of no pain, no gain. If he beats you, he doesn't love you. Abi violence na him love language?It's also appalling how some women advise other women to endure in the hope that the man will change. What a gender! He may change after beating you to death. Some people are so afraid of what others will think of them if they leave their partners that they never leave them. I understand that society supports a lot of bad things and that we have learned to be silent, but I recommend that you speak up. "Silence is learned." Yeah, so report to the appropriate authorities—the police. I'm sure you're skeptical about the police, and I can relate. It's all part of the problem because they are not perceived as being responsible or professional. This makes hope seem bleak. We won't rid ourselves of intimate partner violence if we don't report these cases. Underreporting doesn't help anyone. I think those who stay silent should ask themselves if it is worth it. I know that it's dangerous to put hands in man-woman matters, but let's do the right thing. Free yourself from the chains of false love. The government equally has to do more regarding the implementation of laws on intimate partner violence. A few examples here and there should discourage potential abusers. If measures are not put in place, the plight of women will continue. Yes, I advocate for women, even though I am aware that men are also victims of domestic violence. "Dear ladies love intelligently."Love is not in the pain. Love with your heart and brain. If you no use your head, dem go help you use am. I'll like to hear your thoughts on why ladies stay in toxic relationships. More love, less ego Learn Unlearn Relearn

In People and Society • 3 min read • Dec 30, 2022 14:01p.m.

Why do they stay?

Why do they stay?

Samuel Ibok

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Comments

Mwambo Kate

Yaoundé • 1 year, 11 months ago

1.Probably the fear of starting all over.

Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

Score | 245

Jefferson Nnadiekwe

Freelance scriptwriter and creative photographer

Lagos, Nigeria

I'm of the weird believe that we were born with the knowledge of what we want to be or in another term; 'the idea of our purpose'. However, as we grow and spend more time on earth, the reality of the world we live in makes us lose sight of whatever that might be. It might be a crazy theory but think about it. Cast your mind back to when you were a kid without the pressures that life is constantly throwing at us at the moment. With no bills and responsibilities, we allowed ourselves to be drawn to what really resonates with us. Using myself as a case study, my interest in filmmaking has always been a part of me even if it seemed like I only discovered it in my final year in the university. As a kid, I had quite the imagination that went several steps further than the usual. I considered myself an oddball for acting out a feature length movie (created by me) using nothing but my mom's hair brush. Fast forward years later, and I was lost on a career path to pursue. Advices from parents born out of the need to see a son succeed veered me off a path I was already aware of as a kid. I consider myself fortunate enough to be able to rediscover that passion. Not everyone is that lucky. It's not news that our world can be unfair. It constantly rips us away from our dreams. Adulthood comes with so many sacrifices and a deadline to make these sacrifices. The fact that we are constantly reminded of how easy it is to fail, and the consequences that follow such failures, influences the major decisions we make as adults. There are so many people stuck in jobs they'd rather not do - it is only the desire for financial comfortability that spurs them. It's not an entirely sad thing, because a lot of people veer off and still attain success. I guess my point is that, maybe life would have been much easier if that knowledge remained with us as we grew. Maybe we would be happier if we didn't chose paths influenced by the rat race and pursuit for financial freedom. Or maybe it's best the way it is. In all, my go to advise to anyone who is conflicted and searching for his/her purpose, is to go back to the days of your childhood. Remember those things that ignited a spark in you - a lot of which might be quirky or even eccentric. Once you are able to find it, you can then begin the process of repositioning yourself on the right path.

In Literature, Writing and Blogging • 2 min read • Mar 01, 2024 15:26p.m.

KIDS KNOW BETTER

KIDS KNOW BETTER

Jefferson Nnadiekwe

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It all starts and ends with accurate Bible Interpretation. If the knowledge of God which would birth a vital experience with Him today was committed to us in words, then words need to be taken with utmost diligence. Then comes the need for exegesis. Seeking for the meaning of bible words and statements rather than infusing your own ideas, thoughts or suggestions. As you're reading, you're asking yourself, "what did this writer mean, what did he intend to communicate to me when he wrote this" that's true diligence in bible study. To which the answer to those questions are many times found in basic principles of literature that we overlook. For instance, surely Moses did not expect you to think that a literal snake literally spoke English (Hebrew) to Eve. He must have employed a figure of speech that his very immediate audience understood, which readers of today, thousands of years later need to go back in time to see - as they 'sit' where the first audience 'sat'. Amen.

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Mwambo Kate

Yaoundé • 9 months, 3 weeks ago

Such a relatable post! Life is strange in a way.

Hi, it's Jefferson, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a creative screenwriter, photographer, cinematographer and creative director. You can check out some of my works here https://instagram.com/themi...

Score | 1921

Tobi Igbinedion

Co-founder @ TwoCents

Lagos, Nigeria

724

6125

In Christian Theology • 1 min read • Jul 02, 2022 08:21a.m.

Everything Rises and Falls on Interpretation

Everything Rises and Falls on Interpretation

Tobi Igbinedion

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Eved Ha-shem

4 months ago

Thanks for this insightful read, even though I found the illustration somewhat conflicting. While there's nothing wrong with applying bas...

Score | 1157

Samuel Ibok

Marketing Supervisor @ Crusader Sterling Pensions Limited

Lagos, Nigeria

Whenever I think of the plight in Africa, a certain song from my childhood days comes to mind. Some have food but cannot eat; some can eat but have no food; we have food and we can eat; glory be to thee oh Lord... My emphasis is on the first two lines. It's ironic how a continent so blessed is largely considered to be the face of poverty globally. It makes me ponder what exactly the issue is. To start with, we can always trace our predicament to the slave trade and link it to neocolonialism. But is that all there is? Should we point the finger exclusively at our former slave masters or should we look deeply into our choices as a people? I think we've modified the slave game and made it worse because we've internalized the lies that we can't get better. Yes, we are still heavily bound to the West, and it still influences our economic, social, and political decisions. A key means through which they do this is via multinational corporations. Now, these firms can either be seen as agents of development or underdevelopment. You choose! Isn't it suspicious how the oil-rich Niger Delta Region of Nigeria, where major oil companies reside, is flooded with violence and arms proliferation? Similarly, these companies keep violating international law, and they still get away with it. How about the issue of environmental degradation due to careless practices? Well, we tend to zip our lips because of the few scholarships they give. We are funny sha! Now over to "we Africans." We tend to kill ourselves over the national cake, and we have used religion, which was imported, as motivation and justification for violence. Development cannot take place in the absence of security. Our elected leaders have made things worse by amassing wealth while the electorate remains poor. Sadly, even those with good intentions find themselves in a system designed to make them fail. We are hungry in the midst of plenty. The political class is better informed, but their decisions often lack clarity. The truth is that each sector is interconnected. We have the impression that anything made by us is substandard and everything made abroad is original. I know it's partly because of unscrupulous individuals who thrive off the counterfeit market. How about we invest more in ourselves and our local industries? Brain drain would continue untill we take a Mental SWERVE! How about we limit our relationship with the outside world? Now, I said limit, not end (we can end if necessary). We need to stand up for ourselves more. No African nation is one of the permanent members of the UN Security Council. I want to say them no rate us but whats there to rate! We should update our educational system. In fact, there should be an overhaul. We don't need more class rooms. We need better courses! Overdependence on natural resources should end; let's use our brains. The government should relax and remember that its goal is to create an enabling environment. Oh, and yeah, the government cannot do it all. If all the conversations we have as Africans revolve around our mineral resources, then our future would remain bleak. What if we wake up tomorrow and all the resources have vanished? What would be our fate? What two cents can you suggest to change the African situation? Learn Unlearn Relearn #swerve #LEarn

In Africa • 3 min read • Jan 16, 2023 09:17a.m.

The Resource Curse

The Resource Curse

Samuel Ibok

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Asiogu Ugochukwu

If you like my insights, you can encourage me by sending a TIP. Thank you!

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Anita Koske

Würzburg • 11 months, 2 weeks ago

Yes, unlearn learn and re-learn. I was writing a paper, a statement of purpose really, on what I think is the most pressing challenge in ...

Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

Score | 331

Samuel Ibok

Marketing Supervisor @ Crusader Sterling Pensions Limited

Lagos, Nigeria

This would be a long read. Guess what? I spent my new year with Africa's giant, Oluwa Burna Boy. We chilled at Wonderland Lagos for his show. Lol. By the end of the show, it became clear that Lagos loves Damini, irrespective of the craze he has! I still don't get why artists keep coming to their shows late, but experiencing it firsthand was a premium annoyance. Some people had been standing since 6 p.m., only for Burna to get on stage by 3 am. In other words, "he nearly served us breakfast." As pained as we all were, we somehow kept believing that he would turn up. Some people left out of annoyance, which is justified, but they still came back when Odogwu came on stage. Now, I can boldly say with my full chest that 80% of the people that came there, including my humble self, were there to hear him sing "Last Last." The crazy thing is that when he got on stage, he didn't clearly apologize to the fans, but we were still vibing to his jams. Now, here's a twist to the story y'all may not have seen on Twitter: some angry fans were still throwing objects at him while performing. The part that got me confused was when those in the regular and VIP sections started throwing bottles into the table segment (VVVVVIP). Now that's the playoff of the "class war." It got me thinking about how different people's perceptions of each other are. The truth is that a few people were injured during that brief period of insanity. I know this because I was in the table section. Before you call me Odogwu, just know I was there on official duties. There was almost a stampede as people tried to dodge the objects. It's appalling how angry people would take advantage of the very thing that should unite us. That's basically how the frustration-aggression theory works. The same thing happens in society when the lower class perceives the higher class as the principal cause of their plight. Back to Damini. I wondered why he didn't come on stage earlier to apologize and probably vibe with his fans. Then it hit me that it was all part of his public image. We know Burna to be a beast, a bit wreckless (na small thing remain it would have been all over), fearless, and unapologetic. Maybe it was a "PR stunt." Perhaps our perception of him as a beast would have changed if he had apologized to the crowd. It kind of reminds me of how Wizkid stays calm irrespective of whatever shade is thrown at him. The most you'd see is a "lol" tweet. Ehhhh, Machala sha. Burna equally mentioned some of the issues he was criticized for last year and how it hurt him, but he still appreciates and loves the fans. Now this may not sound strange, but none of Davido's songs were played in the period before Damini came on stage. Relax, I'm not trying to stir controversy, but it is what it is. I waited to hear even one song, but it never came. Think about it. One thing that was very clear from Burna's show was that people respect the value he has created for Nigeria and the African continent. I remember him whining the crowd about his track on the new Black Panther. In his words, shae una hear your boy! I guess it's the value he creates that made us stay. He f'd up, but who never f' up hands in the air-no hands! I wish I could let you guys in on how much he was paid, but that's confidential! Finally, something spiritual happened when Burna sang "Last Last." I felt healed! We all vibed to the song in unison, and people started leaving. It was his last song for the show. Just so you know, the sound at the show was part of the reason he didn't perform early. Artists are people; don't forget that. Love, Samuel!

In Music and Entertainment • 3 min read • Jan 03, 2023 10:03a.m.

Last Last

Last Last

Samuel Ibok

0:00 / 0:00

Queensley Okon

Bryan Emejor

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Why is it that a person in one city can wake up late, stroll to a nearby coffee shop, and savour a leisurely start to the day, while another in a neighbouring city wakes at dawn, battling traffic just for a lukewarm cup of instant coffee at work? The answer stretches far beyond a simple "why." It delves into the realm of urban design – how the built environment shapes our choices, even seemingly mundane ones like our morning routines. This exploration bypasses the complexities of free will vs. determinism. However, it acknowledges that our "free" choices often operate within a framework shaped by external influences, including the design of our cities. We don't choose our childhood environments, and even when we choose where to live and work, we don't get to dictate road designs, building density, or bicycle lanes. We can migrate or change jobs, but even then, we enter a new web of urban (or rural) influences. Let's explore two contrasting cities, Draba and Prana, through the mornings of two fictional residents, Mr. Shonebare and Mr. Tomide. While acknowledging their individual choices, we'll highlight how urban design shapes their experiences. <h5>Morning 1: The Rush Hour Symphony of Draba</h5> It's 4:00 am in the sprawling outskirts of Draba, a city of concrete and sand. Mr. Shonebare, a man built for comfort more than speed, stirs awake. As on every weekday, he beats his alarm and dresses quickly, hoping not to disturb his wife. By 5:00 am, he's on the road in his Jeep, navigating the pre-dawn darkness. He speeds past the few figures trudging to the bus stop, a fleeting moment of smugness crossing his face as he hits the highway – no traffic yet. He arrives at work early, the third person through the door at 6:00 am. He settles into his seat and switches on the electric kettle for coffee. Before the water boils, sleep overtakes him. He awakens with a jolt 35 minutes later, heavy-eyed and burdened by fatigue. He sips his poorly made coffee, staring at the city awakening through the glass walls of his corner office on the 9th floor. "Thank you, God, for today," he murmurs, collapsing back into his chair at 7:00 am. <h5>Morning 2: The Gentle Serenade of Prana</h5> Meanwhile, across the continent in the heart of Prana, the time is 7:21 am. Outside a brick and timber house on the edge of a quiet cul-de-sac, Mr Tomide finally emerges from bed. The aroma of freshly made pancakes, courtesy of his girlfriend Katherine, proves more effective than the alarm or the morning light filtering through the blinds. A leisurely 20 minutes later, he's out the door with a half-eaten pancake in one hand and a briefcase in the other. He greets his neighbour Tommy with a smile as he heads to his bicycle, and arrives at his local coffee shop by 8:14 am. "My usual, please," he says, reaching for his card. "Here you go, Mr. Tomide," replies the barista, Sharon, with a smile. "Thank you, Sharon. See you tomorrow," he replies before heading to work. He stumbles into his office seat at 8:50 am, exchanging greetings and completing his daily check-in. By 9:00 am, he finishes his coffee with a satisfied sigh, a sense of accomplishment washing over him for having navigated a smooth morning routine. <h5>The Architect's Invisible Hand</h5> Let's assume both men work similar corporate hours and have comparable social-economic backgrounds. Now, let's examine how the design of their respective cities shapes their experiences. Draba is a car-dependent city. Wide, abundant roads prioritize automobiles. Walking is impractical; affordable housing sprawls far from the central business district. Sidewalks are patchy, and disrupted by car access points. Buses, though available, get caught in traffic, offering little advantage. This design practically forces car ownership. Mr. Shonebare's 4:00 am wake-up call isn't a personal choice; it's a consequence of Draba's car-centric layout. Waking up later would mean battling rush hour traffic, a Hobson's choice at best. There's no time for a coffee shop stop – they might not be open at his ungodly hour. Even if there were a nearby shop, his constant rush blinds him to his surroundings. His free will isn't eliminated, but certain options become more practical within the framework of his city. In contrast, Prana is a walkable city. While the central business district isn't necessarily within walking distance for everyone, bicycles and well-maintained walkways offer convenient alternatives. Mr. Tomide's leisurely wake-up reflects this design. Since his city prioritizes pedestrians and cyclists, he can choose a more relaxed pace. He has time for breakfast with his partner, a friendly exchange with a neighbour, and a familiar coffee stop. His life unfolds at a less frenetic pace, allowing him to savour his surroundings and potentially work more efficiently. Ironically, Mr. Shonebare might not realize how much better his morning could be, just as Mr. Tomide might not grasp the luxury of his daily routine. <h5>Beyond Choices: A Call to Design</h5> Both men make choices, reflecting a compatibilist view of free will and determinism. Our "free" choices operate within a world that shapes and influences them. This underscores the importance of thoughtful urban design. Decisions about city plans and architecture aren't just about aesthetics; they impact the daily lives of residents. They create a web of influences, some with far-reaching consequences. Here, we've focused on how urban design can influence something as seemingly mundane as a morning routine, even affecting how sweet a cup of coffee tastes. <h5>A Look to the Future</h5> Moving forward, urban planners and architects can play a crucial role in shaping more empowering environments. Prioritizing walkable neighbourhoods, public transportation networks, and green spaces can empower residents to create their own "morning ragas," daily symphonies composed of choices that lead to a more fulfilling life. Imagine a world where Mr. Shonebare doesn't have to wake up at the crack of dawn, battling traffic just for a lukewarm cup of coffee. Imagine a world where Mr. Tomide's experience and the choices afforded his will are the norm, not the exception. The power to create such a world lies partly in the hands of those who design our cities.

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Hi, it's Samuel, thanks for reading my insights.

I'm a Creative Writer and Poet on a mission to Tell Stories That Torch! You can find some of my works below https://www.instagram.com/p...

Score | 236

Joshua Omoijiade

Lagos, Nigeria

826

8657

In Design • 5 min read • Mar 10, 2024 16:46p.m.

The Song of the City and the Taste of our Coffee

The Song of the City and the Taste of our Coffee

Joshua Omoijiade

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architecture urban design philosophy

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