Flowerbud News

Author: Salisu Sani-Idris

  • Theatre practitioners hold 2024 national convention in Lagos

    Theatre practitioners hold 2024 national convention in Lagos

    By Taiye Olayemi

    The National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP) says it will hold its 2024 national delegates convention in Lagos, from Feb. 18 to Feb. 22.

    Its National President, Mr Israel Eboh, who disclosed this during a press conference in Lagos, on Wednesday, said that the essence of the convention was to explore theatre as a force for national transformation.

    Eboh said that the convention would feature insightful workshops to educate practitioners on cutting-edge skills in scriptwriting, directing, acting, stage design, and digital theatre innovations.

    According to him, the convention will also provide a robust platform to explore, debate, and expand the role of the performing arts in national development.

    “In the course of the convention, delegates will be immersed in an exciting lineup of events designed to educate, entertain, and inspire. This is the first time we will be having activities happening in four different venues concurrently.

    “The convention is called “Eko 2024” because it is also an opportunity for our members to explore tour facilities in Lagos, we want to showcase Lagos as the heartbeat of entertainment.

    “The theme for the convention is “Theatre Politics and National Development. ”

    “This theme could not be more relevant at this time in our nation’s history, as we navigate the complexities of governance and democracy.

    “It is imperative to recognise the critical role of theatre and the arts in shaping national consciousness, driving civic engagement, and influencing policy.

    “Theatre is more than entertainment-it is a mirror of the society, a voice for the voiceless, and a catalyst for transformation,” he said.

    Eboh introduced veterans like Joke Silva, Chief Chika Okpala, Hajiya Lantana Ahmed, Dr Sam Dede, Mrs Sarah Boulos, and Steve Onu as Eko 2024 convention ambassadors.

    He appreciated Leadway Assurance, Pocari Sweat, National Council for Arts and Culture, National Film and Video Censors Board, National Theatre, and Agewell company for partnering with NANTAP to host the convention.

    “I extend an open invitation to all theatre practitioners, art enthusiasts, corporate bodies, and government agencies to support and actively participate in this landmark event,” she said.

    Also, Mr Greg Odutayo, Chairman, Local Organising Committee for the convention, promised to make the convention an epoch-making one.

    “It’s going to be a five-day season of learning, interaction, and exhibition of talents.

    “We are going to have activities spread across five venues, the John Randle Centre for Yoruba Culture and History, Glover Memorial hall, Freedom Park, and the National Theatre.

    “We’ll provide logistics for attendees across the state,” he said.

    Earlier, Mrs Tola Akerele, General Manager of the National Arts Theatre, who was represented by Chief Henry Ndubuisi, Deputy Director, Marketing at National Theatre assured NANTAP of continued partnership.

    Akerele also assured Nigerians that the National Theatre would be open for use soon as he promised to continue to work with NANTAP to generate lofty ideas that would reposition the creative industry.

    “We recognise the enormous role NANTAP play in correcting societal ills, and that is the reason we will continue to partner with you to achieve our common goals,” she said.

    Also speaking, Sarah Boulos, National President of the Society of the Performing Arts in Nigeria (SPAN), urged NANTAP to ensure a communique is put together after the convention.

    Boulos also advised NANTAP to encourage their women to embrace politics as Theatre could be seen as a strong force to correct how politics and governance should be run.

    Mr Niyi Abiola, Brand Manager, Leadway Assurance, acknowledged the long-standing relationship the company had built with NANTAP over the years.

    “We see the work you do in shaping the society positively, we are in peculiar times, and the onus is on this association to correct society ills. We are glad to partner with you, and we wish you a beautiful conference ahead. (NAN) (nannews.ng)

  • Muslim women commend FG for advancing dignity of Hijab

    Muslim women commend FG for advancing dignity of Hijab

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    The coalition of Nigerian Muslim women has commended the Federal Government for being instrumental to advancing the dignity of Hijab wearers in the country.

    Mrs Rukayat Dindi, the Abuja Coordinator of Hijab Rights Advocacy Initiative, made the commendation at a news conference to mark the 2025 World Hijab Day organised by the coalition on Friday in Abuja.

    The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that Feb. 1 has been set aside as world Hijab Day to highlight the beauty and significance of wearing hijab in the Islamic context.

    The word hijab comes from the Arabic word ḥijāb, which means “veil”,
    symbolising modesty, worn by Muslim females from puberty onwards.

    It is a headscarf or veil worn to cover the hair and neck, as prescribed by Almighty Allah in the Holy Qur’an Sura 24, Noor (Light), verses 30 -31.

    According to the verses, Muslim women should cover themselves modestly, ensuring that the head, hair, neck, and chest are completely covered.

    Another rule is to use fabric that is opaque and not too thin or decorated,
    wear loose, non-formfitting clothing that covers body shape and avoid brightly coloured or attention-grabbing scarves.

    Dindi, therefore, appreciated government’s efforts in ensuring inclusion and respect in all spheres of life for Muslim women who wear the hijab.

    The coordinator also expressed gratitude to all individuals, institutions, groups and agencies that supported or responded positively to protecting the rights of women in hijab.

    She added that “the Federal Government, through its agencies, surely deserves mentioned namely; the Ministry of Education, National Youth Service Corps (NYSC), Council of Legal Education, the Supreme Court and various state governments.

    “Also to mention are the Nigerian Armed Forces, the Nigeria Police, the National Assembly, and various NGOs that amplified the crusade are well recognised by this coalition.”

    Dindi said that the coalition recorded numerous outstanding achievements of Hijab wearers, especially students who broke records of academic performance, setting high standards for upcoming graduates.

    “We are extremely proud of them and will continue to support them as they inspire the next generation of hijab wearing trailblazers,” she said.

    On her part, Mrs Mardiyyah Ojibara, a member of the coalition, empahaised the need for all institutions to continue to respect the constitution of the land and pronouncements of the Supreme Court on the rights of female Muslims to hijab.

    “This is imperative so we don’t have to go through additional litigation to enforce the already established right,” she added

    Ojibara called on the National Assembly to prioritise the swift passage of outstanding bills on discrimination based on appearance or faith.

    She said “these bills will demonstrate Nigeria’s commitment to justice and equity.”

    She urged the media to challenge stereotypes by promoting positive representation of hijab wearing women.

    She explained that “stories should highlight the achievements of hijab wearing Muslim women as leaders, professionals and role models, while breaking the misconception about the hijab. (NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

  • Brazilian agency seeks partnership with NAGGW on forest, desert conservation

    Brazilian agency seeks partnership with NAGGW on forest, desert conservation

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    The Brazilian Trade and Investment Promotion Agency (ApexBrasil), has expressed willingness to collaborate with the National Agency for the Great Green Wall ( NAGGW) on forest and desert conservation.

    Its President, Mr Jorge Viana, stated this in his remark when he led the agency’s delegation on a courtesy visit to the office of the Director-General of NAGGW, Alhaji Saleh Abubakar, on Thursday in Abuja.

    He also said that the agency would deepen its partnership with the NAGGW to explore other areas of synergy for the mutual benefit of both countries.

    Viana , who extended an invitation to the director-general of NAGGW to attend COP30 in Brazil,emphasised on the opportunity to strengthen bilateral ties between Nigeria and his country.

    Saleh, while welcoming the delegation, acknowledged the long-standing relationship between Nigeria and Brazil.

    He provided an overview of NAGGW, including its Pan-Africanist nature, member countries, the 11 frontline states, and the region’s population of approximately 80 million.

    Saleh said the agency was working assiduously to combat desertification, promote sustainable land use and build resilience against droughts across the 11 frontline states.

    He also highlighted the agency’s successes under the Great Green Wall initiative, including the restoration of degraded lands, reforestation efforts, and community empowerment programmes.

    The NAGGW boss accepted the invitation to attend COP30 and proposed a technical session between Apex-Brazil representatives and NAGGW Directors to further explore more areas of collaboration. (NAN) (www.nannewd.ng)

  • ATPN pledges support for FTAN’s Odua Festival

    ATPN pledges support for FTAN’s Odua Festival

    By Taiye Olayemi

    The Association of Tourism Practitioners of Nigeria (ATPN) has pledged to support the Federation of Tourism Associations of Nigeria (FTAN) in hosting the second edition of the Odua Festival.

    The event is scheduled to take place in June.

    Adetunji Fadina, President of ATPN, made this commitment when Mr Tunde Kolade, South-West Vice President of FTAN, paid him a visit in Lagos on Saturday.
    The Odua Festival is a cultural extravaganza that celebrates the rich heritage of the Yoruba people, aiming to position the South-West region as a key destination for cultural tourism.

    Fadina emphasised the importance of collaboration across all associations under FTAN, calling for a united front.

    He stated: “Our industry is richly blessed, but to fully harness its potential, we must work together as a team.

    “ATPN is giving its full support to the hosting of the Odua Festival this year.”

    Fadina urged all stakeholders in the tourism and hospitality sectors to come together in support of the national body.

    “The time for fragmented efforts is behind us, and it’s essential we work collectively to drive growth and success in these industries,” he said.

    Earlier, Kolade had urged ATPN to throw their full weight behind the hosting of the Odua Festival, with the aim of making the second edition a resounding success.

    He expressed confidence in Fadina’s leadership and dedication to work, reiterating the need for cooperation among associations to make the festival a true cultural beacon of the nation.

    Kolade described Fadina as a passionate advocate for collective progress in the industry, hence the need for his support.

    “The Odua Festival is a treasured cultural event that showcases the rich traditions and customs of our people, meant to boost tourism activities in the region,” he said.

    Kolade urged all associations under FTAN to mobilise resources and ideas for the festival’s success.

  • Drummer Ara reveals years of exploitation, abuse in music industry

    Drummer Ara reveals years of exploitation, abuse in music industry

    By Taiye Olayemi

    Aralola Olamuyiwa, Nigeria’s foremost female talking drummer, popularly known as “Ara”, has revealed how she experienced a series of exploitation, enslavement, and abuse during her journey to stardom.

    Ara, who recently celebrated her 50th birthday anniversary, shared her 25-year experience as an artiste while speaking with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Lagos on Saturday.

    She stated that, at one point in her career, the leader of a particular record label she had a six-year contract with exploited her sexually.

    He also isolated her from her family members, and subjected her to a series of abuses.

    In spite of this, she remained grateful for her achievements while working with the record label, which brought her to the limelight, adding that she had to endure terrible situations.

    “My journey to stardom is not complete if I do not talk about how I was exploited, enslaved, and abused for six years, from 2000 to 2007.

    “I was isolated from my family; my parents were not allowed to see me, nor were my fellow artistes.

    “At one point, I was sexually exploited when the owner of the record label started dating me, and he lied that he was not married until I discovered that he was expecting a child with another woman.

    “It was a horrific experience, which I felt was influenced by some diabolical forces.

    “At the end of the six-year contract, I had no house, no plot of land, no car, and no money. The official car I was given was taken away from me because I refused to renew the contract.

    “My experience, I must say, was worse than that of the late Mohbad. At one point, I suffered from depression and had to leave the country when Professor Wole Soyinka offered me a job.

    “However, while I was on that contract, I was in the spotlight. That was when I performed with Wyclef Jean, Stevie Wonder, and Wesley Snipes.

    “I am not ungrateful; I appreciate all that I achieved during that time,” she said.

    Ara noted that, while she was on the record label, the agreement was for her to receive 30 per cent of the entire proceeds, while the label would receive 70 per cent.

    However, she stated that even with this arrangement, her money was always given to her in tranches whenever she needed it, so she had no full control over her resources.

    Ara explained that she decided to share her experiences to highlight the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment in the entertainment industry.

    She stressed that it was crucial for industry leaders and mentors to prioritise the well-being and safety of aspiring artistes, ensuring that they were not exploited or taken advantage of.

    As the current Governor of the Lagos chapter of the Performing Musicians Association of Nigeria (PMAN), Ara intends to inspire others to speak out against exploitation and abuse.

    Looking back, she said that she would not have signed the contract without her father’s consent and the guidance of a lawyer.

    “Truly, I do not look like what I have been through because I have found grace. The journey was rough, but now I have a fighting spirit.

    “Then, I was isolated from fellow artists, so many people thought it was pride, but I was made to believe I was not supposed to mingle with people. I was really brainwashed.

    “After the contract, another lady artiste was raised by the platform, and she was given my name as well, with just a difference in pronunciation.

    “My shows were diverted to her. I reported it legally and to relevant people, but nothing was done, so I later decided to channel my energy toward building my career.

    “A lot happened to me, and because I intentionally worked on myself to forget some experiences in order to keep my sanity, I developed a tendency to live in denial.

    “At another point in my career, some of my colleagues resorted to diabolical means to drive me mad; one of them confessed to me after another one ran mad in Ibadan, and she is still mad till today,” she said.

    Speaking on marriage, Ara said, “Yes, I still intend to get married; I value marriage a lot, and I know a good man will come.

    “Although suitors have been coming, I have decided to take my time for self-development.

    “I was legally married before, but it was annulled in 2011 for some reasons, but today we are friends. We had a son together, and he is 16 now.

    “Lately, I have observed that men do not know how to approach ladies anymore; they rather focus on enticing ladies with material things, and for me, it does not work.

    There was a time I was celibate for six and a half years; it was not easy,” she said.

    Ara appreciated God for attaining the milestone of her golden jubilee, describing herself as more of a performing artiste than a recording artiste.

    NAN reports that in her 25 years as an artiste, Ara has released no fewer than 40 songs digitally.

  • NAHCON’s Hajj Savings Scheme: A Path to Affordable Pilgrimage in Nigeria.

    NAHCON’s Hajj Savings Scheme: A Path to Affordable Pilgrimage in Nigeria.

    By Shafii Sani Mohammed

    For millions of Nigerian Muslims, the Hajj pilgrimage represents not only a religious obligation but also a lifetime spiritual aspiration. However, the global rising cost of performing Hajj, has made the journey increasingly out of reach for many. Timely enough, the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON) had introduced a promising initiative: the Hajj Savings Scheme (HSS). This scheme offers Nigerian Muslims a structured, long-term planning approach to fund their pilgrimage.

    If fully embraced by both the government and the Muslim community, the Hajj Savings Scheme has the potential to make Hajj more affordable, accessible, and financially sustainable for Nigerians in the future.

    The Hajj Savings Scheme, developed by NAHCON in collaboration with Jaiz Bank, is designed to help prospective pilgrims save for Hajj gradually over time. Through the scheme, individuals can make regular contributions to a dedicated account, earning interest-free returns while accumulating sufficient funds for the pilgrimage.

    The scheme not only addresses the immediate financial pressure of Hajj payments but also promotes a culture of financial discipline and long-term planning within the Muslim community.

    Key Benefits of the Hajj Savings Scheme

    1. Ease of Financial Planning

    One of the greatest challenges faced by prospective pilgrims is raising the full payment for Hajj straight away. The cost ranges between ₦8.3 million to ₦8.7 million for Nigerian pilgrims in 2025. Instead of taking on debts or liquidating assets to meet these costs, the Hajj Savings Scheme offers an alternative by spreading the financial burden over several years, making it less daunting for participants.

    2. Stability Amid Rising Costs

    Global inflation, exchange rate fluctuations, and increased costs of services in Saudi Arabia have contributed to higher Hajj fares. By saving over time, individuals are less vulnerable to sudden price hikes. Additionally, the scheme allows NAHCON to lock in early contracts with Saudi service providers, potentially securing lower costs for accommodation, transportation, and other services.

    3. Subsidy Opportunities Through Government Partnership

    If widely adopted, the Hajj Savings Scheme could encourage greater governmental involvement in subsidizing or supporting Hajj costs. Countries like Indonesia and Malaysia have demonstrated how effective savings schemes can make Hajj affordable. In Indonesia, for instance, the government uses funds from its Hajj savings program to provide subsidies for pilgrims, resulting in fares that are significantly lower than Nigeria’s. Nigeria could emulate this model, using contributions from the HSS to negotiate better deals and provide financial relief to pilgrims.

    4. Promoting Financial Inclusion

    The HSS also aligns with efforts to promote financial inclusion, particularly for low- and middle-income Nigerians. By providing an accessible platform to save for Hajj, it empowers more Muslims to achieve their religious aspirations without facing undue financial hardship.

    The Nigerian government has a crucial role to play in ensuring the success of the Hajj Savings Scheme. First, it must provide policy support and incentives that encourage participation. For example, introducing tax benefits for HSS contributors could motivate more people to join.

    Second, the government can work with NAHCON to ensure transparency and efficiency in the management of funds. Building public trust in the scheme is critical, as skepticism about financial mismanagement could deter potential participants.

    Finally, the government can leverage HSS funds to negotiate more affordable Hajj packages. Bulk purchasing of services such as flights and accommodation would lower costs for Nigerian pilgrims, creating a win-win situation for all stakeholders.

    While government support is important, the success of the HSS ultimately depends on the buy-in from Nigerian Muslims. The Muslim community must recognize that the Hajj Savings Scheme is a practical solution to the financial challenges associated with Hajj. Religious leaders, Islamic organizations, and community groups have a significant role to play in raising awareness about the scheme and educating Muslims on its benefits.

    Beyond financial savings, the scheme also aligns with Islamic values of planning, discipline, and financial prudence. By adopting the HSS, Nigerian Muslims can not only fulfill their religious obligations but also set an example of responsible financial management for future generations.

    A Vision for the Future

    If properly utilized, the Hajj Savings Scheme could revolutionize the way Hajj is organized and funded in Nigeria. Over time, it could reduce the financial stress associated with the pilgrimage, enabling more Muslims to participate without compromising their financial stability. Additionally, the scheme could help Nigeria transition toward a more efficient, subsidized Hajj system similar to those in Indonesia and Malaysia.

    By embracing the HSS, the Nigerian government and Muslim community can work together to ensure that the Hajj remains a cherished, attainable experience for all. It is time for Nigeria to fully commit to this innovative initiative, paving the way for a more affordable and sustainable future for pilgrims.

    Shafii is a staff of NAHCON.

  • Fintir urges corps members to embrace skill acquisition, entrepreneurship devt.

    Fintir urges corps members to embrace skill acquisition, entrepreneurship devt.

    By Talatu Maiwada

    Gov. Ahmadu Fintiri has urged Corps members to embrace the Skill Acquisition and Entrepreneurship Development (SAED) programme to gain skills and achieve self-reliance.

    Fintiri made the call during the swearing-in ceremony of the 2024 Batch C, Stream 2 Corps members at the NYSC Orientation Camp in Damare, on Friday in Yola.

    Represented by his Chief of Staff, Dr Edgar Amos, the governor encouraged Corps members to take full advantage of the programme, emphasising its potential to unlock their capabilities and secure a brighter future.

    “With over a million Corps members already empowered through the SAED programme, its impact is certainly remarkable.

    “The programme offers valuable skills, start-up capital, and business incentives to help you thrive as entrepreneurs.

    “By participating in SAED, you not only gain knowledge and skills but also join a vibrant community of entrepreneurs and change-makers,” he said.

    Fintiri assured the Corps members of their safety in the state and advised them to remain vigilant and adhere to personal security tips provided by experts in the camp.

    Mr Ateli Samson, the NYSC State Coordinator, commended the governor’s dedication to Corps members’ welfare, with the recent increase in their monthly allowance from N10,000 to N20,000.

    He also affirmed the NYSC’s continued involvement in the Nigeria Learning Passport (NLP) programme, aimed at promoting digital literacy in schools across all local government areas.

    Samson mentioned the scheme’s contribution to the National Tree Planting Campaign, revealing that five hectares of land had been acquired from the Ministry of Environment for tree planting and afforestation initiatives.

    Mr Wali Yakubu, Chairman of the NYSC Governing Board, welcomed the Corps members to the state and encouraged them to actively participate in camp activities while adhering to the law.

    He emphasised the significance of the SAED programme, noting its provision of credit facilities and soft loans to deserving Corps members to help establish businesses and become employers of labour.(NAN)(www.nannews.ng)

  • Flyzone tourism opens visa assistance centres in Lagos for seamless travels

    Flyzone tourism opens visa assistance centres in Lagos for seamless travels

    By Taiye Olayemi

    Flyzone Tourism has launched a visa assistance centre in Lagos to create seamless travel opportunities for Nigerian travellers.

    Mr Ayodeji Awomoyi, Principal Executive of Flyzone Tourism, during a press conference on Wednesday, in Lagos, said that the centre was created to properly educate travellers based on travel and visa options.

    After working closely with Nigerian travel agents for over a decade, Awomoyi said he recognised the need for direct engagement with travellers, leading to the establishment of the centre in Lagos.

    “We are open in Lagos now to get closer to the bulk of the Nigerian travellers who are majorly in Lagos. We have been in Port Harcourt and Abuja operating with no fewer than 6,000 travel agents.

    “Now, we are moving from Business to Business (B2B) operations to Business to Customer (B2C) to deal with all bottlenecks experienced by the travelling public.

    “We believe operating in Lagos will make passports submission and physical documentation review easier.

    “Currently, we handle procurement of electronic-visas (e-visas) for about 13 countries, like: Morocco, South Africa, Qatar, Uganda, Kenya, East Africa and more.

    “And one of our sweet product is China Business visa, we are ready to get these visas for people who are into supply or those interested in going to build relationships with suppliers in China,” he said.

    While addressing concerns on whether the centre’s expansion to Lagos might
    create competition with existing travel agencies, he reassured that the company’s focus would remain on collaboration and innovation, not competition.

    He said, “We are not here to take jobs
    from travel agencies. We are here to target other sectors and broaden the scope of
    what’s possible in Nigerian tourism.

    “Our relationships with travel agencies are built on trust, and we are committed to maintaining that trust as we explore new opportunities.”

    Speaking on the reason many visa applicants were consistently denied visas, Awomoyi said this was due to lack of knowledge on the destination they intend to visit.

    He recommended that travelers thoroughly research their desired destination, enabling them to confidently navigate embassy interviews.

    Awomoyi, the multiple award-winning tourism ambassador, expressed his disappointment over the deplorable condition of most tourist sites in Nigeria.

    He said that for a destination to be considered viable, it must possess certain essential qualities.

    He said these qualities include being visually appealing, easily accessible, and offering amenities such as accommodation, activities, and other attractions.

    He advised the federal government to improve on tourism destination management by concessioning most of the tourism sites to private operators for proper management.

    He noted that this was necessary in view of the deplorable condition of most local tourism sites, which were not capable of attracting tourists.

  • Sheikh Shariff Saleh tasks media on national interest, good governance

    Sheikh Shariff Saleh tasks media on national interest, good governance

    By Salisu Sani-Idris

    A renowned Islamic cleric in Nigeria, Sheikh Shariff Saleh has called on media practitioners in the country to prioritise national interest and promote good governance in carrying out their constitutional duties.

    The Cleric, who is the Chairman of the Fatwa Committee of the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), made the call at a news conference on Wednesday in Abuja.

    He emphasised the importance of media professionals promoting national unity and avoiding reports that could jeopardise peaceful coexistence among the country’s various ethnic groups.

    “The media is the eyes and ears of the society, and therefore they have a responsibility to hold leaders accountable on behalf of the people.

    “The media should be up and doing in setting the agenda for the country and interrogating programmes and policies of government,” he said.

    Sheikh Saleh also urged public office holders to listen to and respect the opinions and concerns of citizens as reported in the media.

    The cleric pointed out that God did not err in uniting the various ethnic groups under one political entity called Nigeria.

    He called on all Nigerians to play their part in enhancing national security, fostering unity and peace, and achieving sustainable development.

    According to him, every Nigerian has a role to play in ensuring the country achieves lasting economic growth and development.

    The cleric further urged Nigerians to deepen their devotion to the Almighty God with full submission and to pray earnestly for the nation’s well-being and the restoration of peace in areas affected by insecurity.

    He emphasised the need for religious leaders to continue preaching tolerance, unity, and love for one another, regardless of tribal or religious differences.

    Sheikh Saleh also expressed gratitude to the management of Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, for recently conferring an honorary doctorate degree on him.

    “The most important lesson on the conferment of an honorary doctorate degree on me by the management of ABU is that our institutions are recognising the contributions of religious leaders to nation-building,” he said. (NAN)