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See, Fuji House Of Commotion was everything! Refreshingly hilarious with great actors and the catchiest theme song, Amaka Igwe really made my childhood with this. In fact, it’s still one of the funniest Nigerians comedy TV shows to this day. These are some of the funniest episodes!
The one where Ireti, Peace, Mama Moji and the children decided to move into ‘Aso Rock’ with Ireti and Chief.
The one where ‘kitchen practical’ prepared ‘Osramo Branus Mangus’ for the house to eat.
The one where Peaceful Peace jacked Ireti’s week with Chief.
The one where Mama Moji and Peaceful Peace redefined the art of being shady.
The one where Peace showed us how it feels to get ready for a night with bae and get stood up and the best way to handle it.
The one where ASUU went on strike and Chief’s children came home and started their own strike too and locked their parents out of the house for four days.
The one where Mama Moji, Ireti and Peace decided to spoil Chief for Valentine’s day. With absolutely no ulterior motives.
One of the many episodes where Ireti had to fight for her week with Chief.
These are just the episodes I remember o. I know there are a lot more, so share with us some of your favourite Fuji House Of Commotion episodes! Tweet us @zikokomag!
I’m convinced that youth is a thing of the mind; you can be young, yet feel quite old. It all depends on your lifestyle and how you take care of yourself.
Whether you’d like to admit it or not, many things are going to change in your 20s – your body will change and your responsibilities to yourself and others will change. Relationships will grow and die, money stress becomes more real, and your life really becomes your responsibility.
Although this decade can feel like you’re independent and consequence-free, how you spend your 20s will have a massive impact on the rest of your life.
So, I’m going to give you seven highly underrated tips to help you maintain a balanced, inspired life.
Stop eating junk
It’s so unfair, I know. When you can finally afford to eat all the junk you want and not be told off by your parents, you have to stop? Unfortunately, junk food only puts toxins in your body. The older you get, the slower your body can get rid of toxins.
Try to include healthier food into your diet like fruits and vegetables. Looking young even while young takes work.
Drink more water
In your 20s, it’s very easy for your fluid options to start to range between coffee for energy, soft drinks for refreshment and alcohol for fun. Please don’t do this. Remember the toxins.
Drinking one to two litres of water every day can help maintain your energy levels, improve your mood, prevent headaches, help with weight loss and better your skin. Take care of yourself.
Exercise regularly
The older you get, the harder it is to exercise. It’s easier shedding that extra Christmas 5kg than it is trying to lose an accumulated 20kg. Trust me, I know. The older you get, the slower your metabolism gets, and the harder you have to work to keep everything together.
You don’t have to pass out at the gym; you just need to incorporate some physical activity into your daily routine. Health is the most important thing.
Get regular health checks
Taking care of your health at this age cannot be overemphasized. Ít’ll make the rest of your life easier. Always remember to get medical and dental check-ups every once in a while. Your body is fully developed in your 20s, and so are your teeth.
If you’re stuck with the same teeth for the rest of your life, you’re going to want to take care of them early, before repairing years of neglect becomes even more expensive. Same goes for your body.
Protect yourr skin
The gif above is literally what the sun does to your skin over time, regardless of your race. Your skin is not going to remain supple and wrinkle-free forever – especially if you don’t protect it.
Use sunscreen, moisturise, drink water and mind your business – your glow is going to be insane.
Read more books
Reading is so essential for growth! It broadens your horizon and helps you think of things from a new perspective. Challenge yourself to read as many books as possible, even if it’s fiction.
You can set a goal of one book a month. There’s a lot to be learned from them, and they’re fun.
Set standards
It’s important to use your 20s to learn about yourself and set standards. Whether from a relationship or job, it’s vital to know what you are willing to accept or tolerate, lest you fall victim to people that would end up doing nothing for you.
Don’t settle; you have your whole life ahead of you.
Have any other life hacks for twenty-somethings? Drop a comment or tweet us @zikokomag.
The Nigerian economy is hella tough these days, and spending money on frivolities is a no.
However, even though it can be, dating is not always a waste. How else do you want to get to know somebody more intimately?
And even though this brother and his girlfriend consider spending five thousand naira on a date outrageous, that’s not the case.
I took my lady to the movies one time.. 2 tickets, hot dog and drinks..everything 5k..as I was bringing out the 5k, she slapped my hand and told me she would rather use 2k to make soup with plenty meat and use 3k to buy fuel for the week. Fam! My heart melted
It’s not a lot of money these days. Still, you can go on a romantic date for N5000 or under. Let me show you how.
Go to the movies
Movie dates are a perfect date idea. They’re cosy and they give you and your date something to talk about.
The best part is, they’re also cheap, at least depending on what you’re buying. The trick to enjoying this date with 5k is to be assertive and forward. No too much asking “what do you want?” when you get to the counter.
Just go on discount days, grab popcorn and drinks. Good to go at 5k.
Have a picnic
Picnics are a creative, fun date idea. You enjoy a nice view, food and each other’s uninterrupted company. Picnics are also entirely customizable to your budget. I know you’re thinking, ‘where on earth can I go for a picnic?’ For my Lagos people, you can go to this quiet little beach in Lekki called Marwa. Gate fee is N300. If you’re paying for two, you still have N4400 to buy food and drinks. Choose wisely, and enjoy your date.
Grab a pizza
You can’t go wrong with pizza, and that’s a fact.
It is delicious, filling, and it makes everyone happy. You can decide to share some happiness with your date and grab a medium-sized pizza. You can also get soft drinks or ice cream and still sit under the 5k cap. It will be an extra cute and bonding moment as you guys share your N5000 meal. Remember to go half-and-half when picking pizza toppings!
Get drinks
Not every date should be about food. Perhaps you just want to spend some time together and neither of you is particularly hungry. What to do? Get drinks, of course. Especially if you two enjoy alcoholic beverages.
It’s a wonderful way to loosen up and get to know each other. Many nice places will give you two cocktails for less than ₦5000, and still leave you with enough money for Suya.
Go to an art gallery/museum
If art and history is your thing, you should totally go to an art gallery. There are many in Lagos.
Apart from the beauty of the art, the best thing about art galleries is that they are mostly free. You can buy snacks or drinks to your heart’s desire. Under 5k of course.
You can also take the nice pictures for priceless memories.
For what you are about to witness will (or should) forever change your perspective on bumping uglies with strange people. If you don’t know them well enough to be able to ask for STD test results, they’re strange.
Now, we know body no be firewood.
But before you go and meet that sweet boy or sweet girl, better find out their status. Ask to see the results, even. Some people have horrible STDs. Our ancestors call unwanted and unexpected ‘gifts’ like that ‘double wahala.’ Be advised.
First off, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are the literal worst.
STDs are infections/diseases caused by having sexual contact with infected people either through oral, anal or/& vaginal intercourse. Most STDs show no symptoms and may last for years which is additionally scary. By the time it shows symptoms, a great deal of damage could have been done.
Most of them are curable, but there are a few that can only be managed.
Those are the ones we’re focusing on today. The manageable ones. They are unsightly, painful, expensive and potentially deadly. Infected people have to depend on medicine to suppress symptoms for the remainder of their life, or until scientists figure out a cure.
So stay woke.
Gonorrhea is one of the most common STDs in Nigeria. In fact, a study done by WHO showed that Lagos in 1963 had the highest gonorrhea rate in the world! It’s most common among young people between 15 to 24 and it infects parts of the body that are warm and moist eg the eyes, mouth, urethra, vagina, anus etc. Oddly enough, gonorrhea used to have a complete cure, but the infection-causing bacterium Neisseria gonorrhea has become resistant.
Symptoms:
Gonorrhea can cause rectal infections, anal itching, sores, discharge or bleeding. It’s pretty nasty. If treatment doesn’t start right away, it can have dire consequences such as obstruction of the fallopian tubes, infertility and ectopic pregnancy. Men may feel pain in their testicles, and be unable to father a child.
These are sexually transmitted diseases that lead to liver inflammation and, in serious cases, to death. There is no cure for hepatitis A & B, however, there is a vaccine for these two types and your body usually clears both Hepatitis A and Hepatitis B within a few months. Unfortunately, some people end up with chronic Hepatitis B, which means their body didn’t get rid of it within six months. At this stage, you can only take medication to slow down the liver damage.
Symptoms:
When Hepatitis is contracted, first symptoms can include a general feeling of unwell, vomiting, nausea, fever and dark-coloured urine. In serious cases, Hepatitis develops into cirrhosis and can lead to liver cancer.
This is a viral infection that is passed through skin-to-skin contact. Most people get HPV through direct sexual contact, such as oral sex. It can affect your mouth, genitals or throat, giving you warts. Warts associated with most HPV infections go away on their own, but the virus remains in the infected person’s body. As a result, that person may still pass HPV to sexual partners.
Symptoms:
When the virus doesn’t go away on its own, it’s a big problem. Complications include genital warts and warts in the throat. HPV may also cause cervical cancer and cancers of the genitals, head, neck, and throat. However, the types of HPV that cause warts are different from the types that cause cancer.
Herpes is a viral infection characterized by periodic outbreaks of painful sores. It can be contracted through sex, kissing or touching an affected area. Although condoms can prevent herpes transmission during intercourse, oral contact with genitals or open sores anywhere can spread the disease.
Symptoms:
Herpes usually shows up as cold sores or blisters. Symptoms can also include pain when urinating, lower back pain, flu-like symptoms and a burning sensation in the genitals. Small red bumps may also appear around the genitals or on the mouth.
Bottom line
Nobody likes living with STDs of any kind. The good news is, if you have any of these STDs, they can be managed well with modern medicine. Don’t beat yourself up about it. If you don’t have any STDs, take care to keep it that way. It is important to choose your sexual partners very carefully and use protection. Abstinence, however, remains the best way to protect yourself.
Nigerians are woke these days – at least that’s what you’d think if you stumbled onto, and got lost in social media.
The truth is, a lot of us are not. We are naturally loud and extremely assertive, so when we talk it’s easy enough to believe we are authorities on the matter. However, even though a lot of us claim woke, we don’t deeply understand certain issues.
Because the lines are so blurry, what does ‘woke’ mean, anyway?
I love thisUrban Dictionary definition of woke; “getting woke is like being in the Matrix and taking the red pill. You get a sudden understanding of what’s really going on and find out you were wrong about much of what you understood to be truth.” In simpler terms, it means to become aware of the problems in our society and the factors that contribute to them. You ‘wake’ up to the realization that some of our traditions, culture, societal structure and interactions are problematic. The impact of wokeness in Nigeria is however limited by ‘fake wokeness’. What is fake woke, you ask? Fake woke people are those who aren’t directly affected by or understand certain social issues, but still argue blindly in favour of the problem. They are the opposing voice, creating doubt and slowing down progress.
Can wokeness be learned?
Yes, it can. Ironically, when supposedly enlightened people tell ‘ignorant’ people to read a book, it’s actually not (just) an insult. You can actually find the answers to life in books. We’ve put together a reading list of African books which attack social issues to get you started.
1. Female marginalisation: So Long A Letter – Mariama Bâ
An inspiring story of feminine strength, So Long A Letter is written as a series of letters between Ramatoulaye and her best friend Aissatou, after Ramatoulaye’s estranged husband dies from a heart attack. While observing mirasse, (a forty-day period of isolation and mourning) Ramatoulaye keeps a diary which she sends her friend. This book explores a woman’s place in developing West African society. Ba wants this novel to encourage women take responsibility for their lives. The letter format pulls you in, making the book feel extremely personal.
2. Government incompetence: The Trouble With Nigeria – Chinua Achebe
This is a great book for Nigerians, but the problems therein apply to a lot of African countries. The Trouble With Nigeria takes a look at Nigeria’s major problem which according to Achebe is leadership–or the lack of it. Leadership is used as the launching pad to dissect many Nigerian problems: tribalism, lack of patriotism, social injustice, the cult of mediocrity, indiscipline and corruption.
3. Social disintegration: Things Fall Apart – Chinua Achebe
Rich in cultural history, Things Fall Apart tells a captivating story of a traditional Igbo man who, though living in a rapidly changing Africa, refuses to accept British imperialists and missionaries. Achebe describes the daily life of the Igbo by telling the story Okonkwo and passes on key points about the Igbo culture. This book details how the way of life of the British crept into traditional Igbo society, and exposes the corruption and oppression that was perpetuated.
4. Sexual harassment/rape: Rape: A South African Nightmare – Pumla Dineo Gqola
Using examples from the past and present, Rape: A South African Nightmare takes on various aspects of rape culture in South Africa. It does so by focusing on the patterns and trends of rape culture and asking what can be learned from famous cases. This book analyses the fact that public responses to rape are characterised by doubt. It also asks penetrating questions about female fear factor, boy rape, the rape of black lesbians and more.
5. Mental health: Freshwater – Akwaeke Emezi
Freshwater is Akwaeke Emezi’s daring debut novel that was shortlisted for The Center For Fiction First Novel Prize, 2018. This book paints a profound picture of what it’s like to mentally be between worlds by exploring the life of Ada, a Nigerian girl who was a little “different” from other children. She was a challenging child for her parents, who were constantly concerned about her fractured existence. Throughout her life, Ada speaks through her various selves (which is framed within the Igbo tradition of ogbanje). Freshwater takes on challenging topics such as identity, mental illness, self-harm, sexual assault, suicide, and more.
6. Yahoo-Yahoo: I Do Not Come To You By Chance – Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani
Adaobi Tricia Nwaubani’s debut novel, I Do Not Come To You By Chance won the 2010 Wole Soyinka Prize for Literature in Africa and the 2010 Commonwealth Writers’ Prize for Best First Book in Africa. This is a very insightful contemporary African novel centered around a young man burdened with responsibility. It details the lengths he goes to provide for his family, which takes us into the world of email scams AKA Yahoo-Yahoo and into the lives of the people behind them.
7. Gender roles and inequality – Male Daughters, Female Husbands: Gender and Sex In An African Society – Ify Amadiume
Male Daughters, Female Husbands explores the imposition of Western life onto West African society. This book does a fantastic job of outlining the new gender reality created by the impression of European Christian values on a traditionally matrilineal Igbo society. Amadiume details a rich history of economic and social power that West African women held, and how they’ve have found themselves disadvantaged compared to their male counterparts since the early 1900s. This is a must-read for every woman.
8. Abuse and domestic violence: Purple Hibiscus – Chimamanda Adichie
Longlisted by the Booker Prize in 2004, and shortlisted for the Orange Prize For Fiction that same year, Purple Hibiscus has garnered a lot of acclaim. This is a captivating book that handles abuse in a most delicate way. This book is focused on Kambili and her family, and what they endure for the sake of religion and family values. It shows the disintegration of her family unit and the unimaginable effects of abuse.
If you’ve read any of these books, what do you think about them? Which other books would you recommend?
Nollywood has always depicted Nigerian society in different crazy ways, but nothing compares to how they depict exactly how Nigerian wives should behave. It’s amazing and highkey hilarious, honestly. Let me give you a few examples.
These people will just be making marriage to be fearing somebody. Where’s the nearest convent, abeg?
1. Marry as a virgin
But on your wedding night, bust several moves. Shey the knowledge comes with the ring, at least for women? Men have to get their knowledge the more… manual way, obviously.
2. Throw it down in the kitchen
Looking like this, no less. If you’re not Martha Stewart mixed with The Kitchen Butterfly, are you even worth marrying? You will just push your husband into the hands of the next woman that can cook! Shey, it’s food cooked by someone else he came to use his life to eat.
3. Get pregnant in the first few months.
In fact, if you don’t get pregnant on your wedding night there must be something wrong. To Nollywood, any good wife will birth a son first, so act accordingly. It’s simply common sense and a little biology. Also, don’t forget to keep having babies till your husband can no longer afford them, but never ever add weight, look tired or complain.
4. Never accuse your husband of cheating even if you catch him red handed.
And if it’s paining you too much that your husband fell into the orifices of another woman, you need to apologise for not being enough and performing your duties to satisfaction. If he should continue, get your Bible or Quran and pray because it must be jazz.
5. Be obedient.
If your husband says ‘jump’, you better pack your breasts and start jumping.
6. Always look good.
Even if you’re just leaving the delivery room. As soon as that baby drops, the weight should drop too. In fact, leave that place with your baby, makeup and heels. After all, you don’t want to push him into the hands of another woman.
7. Be more forgiving than Jesus.
If your husband slaps you, just grab his collar, call him by his name and say “you slapped me?!” Then go ahead and insist that he kill you without delay. And when he should get on his knees, shed two tears and insist that the devil made him do it, forgive him. You’re a good wife.
8. Clean the house like that’s what you were born to do.
A Nigerian husband can only survive in the cleanest of homes and environments, so of course, it is your duty as a good wife to make that happen. The house must always be sparkling!
9. Always always look sexy.
But only in the house! So you can titillate his senses as you bend down to perform every little task. You have to stay on top of that sexy game!
10. Don’t bother him unnecessarily. Even when you think it’s important, it’s not important to him.
Even if you also have a job, you must always remember that your husband has had a long day, so you must never ask him to help around the house, help with the children, or even inconvenience him by falling sick. Don’t make him look outside the home for complete laziness.
11. Respect his family. He doesn’t have to respect yours o but you must respect his family.
Even if his younger siblings are younger than the last born of your family, you must always call them ‘sister’ or ‘brother’. Show that you have home training if you don’t want to go back to your father’s house that they weren’t chasing you from in the first place.
12. You had better get out of bed first in the morning.
You must never let your husband wake up after you. What kind of wife are you?! You should have been doing “one or two things” before he opens his eyes. This includes but is not limited to cooking, cleaning, and preparing the kids for school. You get up before him on weekends even, to handwash his underwear.
13. Ensure food is always fresh and hot.
Whether you have a job or not, all food your husband eats must be fresh and hot. Don’t ask me how you’re supposed to do that – I’m not married to your husband with you.
14. Please what else did we leave out?
Drop a comment below!
You know the feeling of setting a savings goal and with ginger you actually start to save, only for you to somehow sha break into it before you even reach halfway through your goal timeline? We can totally relate, so we’ve decided to create a list of some of our saving struggles.
Money? What’s that?
How do you take something out of nothing? Don’t angry me, please! *crying in unemployment*
How much am I even earning?
Man never chop finish, you’re talking about saving. I can see you don’t have my best interests at heart.
Automated payments
“Baba God, tell me I’m dreaming. These people have removed my last change. Who sent you? Who sent you?!”
Have you seen the price of garri in the market?
It’s like you don’t know what is happening in the country. You can’t even price anyhow anymore. Just leave me to be managing my life.
Food
How will I buy food if I keep saving? Please let me enjoy; life is one.
Internet
Ordinary small breeze will blow and all your data will finish. Oh, well. *buys more data*
I got 99 problems but saving ain’t one
And on the other end of the spectrum, we have the non-savers. “What is saving, please? Don’t insult my personality. I just keep making this schmoney! Call me OBO.”
What do y’all spend money on that you wish you didn’t have to? Tweet us @zikokomag!
If you thought being a single man in Nigeria was fun, el. oh. el!
All of us are suffering this thing together.
Imagine, somebody is still managing their life and family is already asking you to marry.
Na wah o. Didn’t I finish school just nine years ago?
Your landlord’s wife will call every girl that comes to your house. “Our wife. Welcome o.”
I don’t blame you. It’s my fault that I have six sisters.
If you want to chill with your guys and go with a female friend, wahala. They will tease you to tears.
Please stop talking. Don’t make things awkward. She’s like my sister na! Oh God, why is she giving me this kind of side eye?
And when they see you with another female friend, they will start asking about ‘that your former babe’.
If it were that easy to pull babes, shey I won’t have girlfriend by now? Mumu.
Even your parents will betray you and start asking for their grandchildren.
Wey I never even get babe. Abeg wait small.
When even your ‘irresponsible’ friend gets married, your family will just be looking at you like
See me see trouble o!
Even your married friends that should understand your situation will be telling you to go and marry.
If not that you found somebody to manage you now…
Toasting babes will be giving you high blood pressure.
“She’s fine o. She probably has a boyfriend, though. What if she should give me L? Do I look alright? Chai, this my shirt don fade. I should have sprayed that perfume. Cheesus!”
At one point, you won’t even have your guys to chill wilth again because they’ll all have babes.
All of a sudden, you’ll know the difference between alone and lonely.
When you get to a certain age and you’re still not married, people will start wondering and asking what is wrong with you.
Na wah o. It’s like this my life, we are all sharing it abi?
My brother, if you let people give you heart attack for singleness that is not their own, well… Issalova Jackie.
Just take it easy and enjoy your life before you make a huge mistake!
The Nigerian music industry has come a long way and we are glad for it, but before the Wizkids, Davidos and Teknos, there were some serious entertainers who lit up our stages, TVs and java phones.
What are they up to these days?
Osayamwen Nosa Donald was easily the Crush and Love of everyone’s life. The award-winning singer’s big moment was in 2004 when he released his breakout hit, ‘Ego’.
Djinee has dabbled in other aspects of entertainment over the years but is thankfully still singing. He dropped a single this year.
“It’s a Super Story, a life of strife and sorrow.” That voice you heard on Thursday nights belonged to Uwale Okoro, you know her as Essence. If you thought she wasn’t making music anymore, still sings, and blogs.
Paul I.K. Dairo was one of the biggest stars stars of his time. However, time passed and times changed, and Paul fell ill so had to slow down on the music. He’s better now though, and back to doing what he does pretty well, whether it is being a Judge for a Reality show, or leading live performances.
First Lady of Nigerian hip-hop, Sasha P aka Anthonia Yetunde Alabi was hot on the music scene in every way. She had bars and flow for days and looked pretty hot as well. However, she decided to move from music to fashion in 2013 and has been running her fashion label – Eclectic by Sasha, ever since.
Eddie Remedy
King of the early late 90s and 2000s, Edward Ashiedu-Brown had Nigeria in the palm of his hand. Lead singer of Remedies, Eddy definitely made his mark. However, over time and with a lot of controversies, he did music less and less. Still, he sings and even hints about the possibility of a Remedies reunion.
Weird M.C is another dope female rapper! She had been on the scene for a while, but she became a real star with her song “Ijoya”. The video was the coolest at the time. Even though Weird M.C has been quiet on music for a while now, her Twitter profile reads UN Peace Ambassador, Road Safety Marshall, Social Entrepreneur and Influencer. I guess she’s doing good, then!
Tony Tetuila
Tony Tetuila stole the spotlight with such songs as ‘My Car’ and ‘My Heart Go Jigi-Jigi’. He really was a superstar! However, the golden-haired musician whose real name is Anthony Awotoye hasn’t done much music since 2014 when he ran for political office in the House of Assembly of Kwara State.
Kel
Kel, aka Kelechi Ohia came out with a bang with when she released ‘Wa Wa Alright’. She released an album which did not do so well, but a few years later she released another song with W4 that was a was a hit. Kel then went silent again. However, she recently said that she has started a record label and is working on a few projects. We can’t wait.
Daddy Showkey
Daddy Showkey aka John Asiemo is a legendary galala singer. He swept us away with songs like ‘Diana’ and Nigerians just loved him. Unfortunately, he had an almost fatal accident that kept him bedridden for three years and out of active music for almost ten years. He’s easing his way back to music, though and we’re really excited.
B.O.U.Q.U.I
B.O.U.Q.U.I whose real name is Bukola Folayan held Nigeria’s attention when she released her album ‘Eve Of Independence’ that had major hits like “Molejo” and ”Vanity”. She cut across more than the Christian audience she made songs for. Since her second album, she has been quiet until recently when she held an online rap competition – BOUQUI Unstoppable Rap Competition. She still does music, and she’s doing good!
When a lot of people recall childhood beatings, it’s often with a hint of wry humour and I’m usually just blown, like
Excuse me, what about getting beaten is funny?
Your dad or mom had you hospitalized and left a permanent scar on you and you’re laughing almost fondly? What in the Stockholm Syndrome is this?
I often find that the longer people tell these stories, the humour fades and their true feelings of the events are exposed – whatever they may be.
Admittedly, if I were asked to recount such tales, I’d probably laugh in the process of telling it as well. Well, that just might be because I’m damaged. Who knows?
Corporal punishments or what we call beating, is tightly woven into the average Nigerian or African’s correctional culture.
It starts at home with parents, aunts or uncles and older siblings, and extends to school and sometimes even religious institutions.
In fact, it’s not the strangest thing to see a man or woman “discipline” a complete stranger’s child for some wrongdoing or other.
They say it takes a village to raise a child and this village believes in the supposed effectiveness of beatings. However, with all the beatings and supposed discipline, crime and immorality are still rife in the society.
A lot of people will argue that beatings didn’t leave any lasting mental scars, that they’re actually better for it.
These same people look forward to beating their children for not much other reason than ‘well, it was done to me and I turned out well’.
That might be true, but you could definitely have turned out a whole lot better. In an environment that often disregards mental health, it would be hard for you to even tell the signs.
Damaged people damage people.
There are many detrimental effects of corporal punishment.
If you were beaten as a child, it’s okay to admit that you are damaged. It makes it easier to notice the signs and break the cycle.
Unless you have the very spawn of the devil as a child (which is very unlikely) there’s no way he/she won’t be able to discern right from wrong, especially if broken down and properly communicated to them.
It doesn’t have to be etched on their bodies through beatings. In contrast to what parents are trying to achieve, the child most often only learns to fear punishment, rather than understand why he should follow rules. They become sneaky and learn to hide bad behaviour well, because of the fear of punishment.
AKA “wrong is what gets you punished; right is what gets you praise or avoids punishment.” Morally upright, indeed. See this.
Beatings don’t teach your child to behave properly. A child who gets beaten for fighting a sibling won’t magically learn how to get along better in future.
Parents are in fact just sending a confusing message by doing exactly what they’re trying to get the children to not do. Children do what parents do, more than what they say. Effective discipline should always teach new skills, and parents are responsible for the child they raised.
Parents often lose it and react, and in the process don’t teach anything other than that their child should be afraid of them. Parents who use corporal punishment often react out of desperation before they really consider the underlying reason.
The child just gets beaten without fully understanding what they did wrong, simply learning that their parents don’t like it and not to do it again… and get caught.
Parents who employ corporal punishment as a discipline tool are simply training their kids to resent them.
Beatings damage your child’s self-esteem, their ability to interact properly with others, their view of the world and their view of how they deserve to be treated!
Beatings push your children away from you, and they become vulnerable to picking up vices from strangers. They also perfect bad habits such as lying. Why make your child grow up traumatised?
Punishment isn’t the only facet of discipline! In fact, if your discipline consists of just negative consequences, it isn’t very effective.
Some parents, when asked why they beat their children, will say out of frustration “I don’t know what else to do.” How would you feel if you were meted out that same punishment by a spouse or loved one with the excuse of them not knowing how else to let you know you’d made a mistake? That would be termed ‘Emotional Pain and Suffering’ for an adult, so why do we believe children don’t have the same feelings that adults do?
The screaming that comes from a young child being beaten is not so much the result of physical trauma as it is emotional trauma. They experience the overwhelming emotional pain of rejection, worthlessness, and the betrayal is usually much worse than any physical pain.
So, is #StopBeatingChildren a relevant movement in the Nigerian society? Yes.
We need to recognize beatings for what they are – abuse. We need to break the cycle of abusing our children because we were abused.
There are other equally effective methods of disciplining a child without physical (or verbal) abuse.
Parents can try, for one, actually talking to the kids like they’re human beings with brains. They should also try educating them as patiently as possible about the dangers or implications of their bad behaviour.
Ignore them, ground them, take away something they love, clearly express your disapproval and lecture them if need be, just do anything but abuse them.
The mental scars you inflict on them will last longer than any lesson you’d like them to learn.
What are your thoughts on using corporal punishment as a discipline tool?
With influences from North African, French, and Portuguese cuisine as well as from the nation’s many ethnic groups, Senegalese cuisine is delightfully unique to experience! Here are a few dishes your Nigerian palette will absolutely fall in love with.
1. Chicken Yassa
Yassa is made of chicken pieces that are marinated in onions, lime juice, vinegar and peanut oil then grilled before being cooked over low heat in its marinade. When served with white rice, this makes for an unforgettable flavorful dish.
2. Mafe
Mafe is a very delicious traditional Senegalese food. It’s made of meats or fish cooked in groundnut paste, then served with white rice. Totally yummy.
3. Caldou
I’m a huge fish lover, so for me, Caldou is an A+ dish. It’s made of fish cooked in palm oil, then is served with white rice and a lime sauce. Just thinking about this is making me hungry.
4. Thierre bassi salte
Basse Salte is a delicacy made from seasoned meats or fish cooked in tomato paste and vegetables. Served with the local couscous, you’re going to be begging for more.
5. Lakhou Bissap
Lakhou Bissap is a very interesting Senegalese dish that you should definitely try. It is made of semolina and meat or fish and has the consistency of a soup.
6. Salatu Niebe
This! Salatu niebe is a wonderful and colourful black-eyed pea salad. Made with tomatoes, cucumbers, parsley and a host of other vegetables, this is very delicious, take it from me.
7. Firire
Firire is fried fish and onion sauce that can be served with bread, fries, salads and so much more. It is truly delicious.
8. Soupou Kandja
Soupou Kandja is an okra sauce made with loads of meats and palm oil. When accompanied with rice, this is a match made in heaven.
9. Check out this recipe for Chicken Yassa
https://youtu.be/uIVyIpTgV_U
What other Senegalese dishes would y’all recommend?
You’ve been to an owambe and really had fun, abi? In fact, you ordered for extra small chops and more of that jollof rice with pepper chicken and Star to wash it all down.
Well done sah! It’s now your turn to throw your own party, and it must bang! Don’t know how? Well, shall we begin?
Break your bank
I’m sure you know by now that rice is not cheap in the market. And how much do you think small chops and drinks and the rest cost? You’re going to break that bank, my friend. Unless you’re not on our level… In that case, we’re sorry.
Aso ebi
You need to hit your friends with ridiculously overpriced clothing materials in the colours of the season, of course! Your guests must slay in uniformity.
Hire a famous party planner
Honestly, this one is for your own sanity. And so your owambe won’t be a complete flop because the party planner’s name alone will make people want to turn up. He who has ears…
Even if you hire a party planner…
You still need to personally make sure that there is an abundance of small chops and drinks. Don’t play rough play.
Hire photographers
Photographers o, not photographer. At least two, with someone else doing video. All the beauty and slay must live on forever on social media, in every possible angle.
Invite the right guests
All your five photographers will be photographing who? You must invite internet celebrities o! So your guests will have something to entertain themselves with, and your pictures will come out looking bad and bougie.
Hire bouncers
Gather the biggest, toughest-looking bouncers you can find, because your prestigious guests need to feel safe. If they’re bald, even better.
Jollof rice must be on point
If the food isn’t Snapchat and Instagram worthy, have you even served food??? May ‘jollof rice has finished’ not be your portion.
Drinks must be plenty
A wise man once said, “the more the alcohol flows, the better your party is.” We don’t argue with wise men.
Hire a live band or DJ
Or, you know… hire the two. There can’t be an abundance of good music at a party.
And don’t forget, even if you break your bank beyond the point of recovery, your owambe will live on forever on social media! 🙂
Jollof rice is more than just a blessed delicacy from God himself…
It is a way of life. Just look at this.
Jollof Rice has proved its culinary excellence and has become so popular all over the world that there’s actually a day to celebrate it.
Yup, World Jollof Rice Day is actually a thing. If you’re curious as to what exactly makes this food so special, I’m going to give you 22 reasons… or ingredients.
1. Love and affection
I mean, this is why your mom’s Jollof Rice is still the best you ever had.
2. Experienced hands
Hands that are almost fireproof, and have evolved into automatic measuring machines.
3. Sweat
Y’all already know this is why proper party Jollof Rice tastes so much better than homecooked. 🌚 Ingredient X.
4. Firewood
If you want to make amazing Jollof Rice, you need to cook it with firewood. It’s in the Constitution.
5. Cast iron pot
Akon is from Senegal. What do you think he was talking about when he sang Pot of Gold?
6. Good rice
No matter your level of skill, if you do mistake and buy bad rice, your Jollof Rice is going to be bad, plain and simple. Shine ya eye.
7. Fresh tomatoes
Get those fresh, healthy-looking juicy tomatoes that usually come from the North. Just go to the market and ask for it.
8. Tomato puree
AKA tin tomato/tinned tomatoes. This is like the photoshop for Jollof Rice. It gives it an extremely attractive pop of colour.
9. Onions
The type that will make you shed tears at its beauty.
10. Scotch bonnet
AKA rodo. Because a little fire is good for the soul, and tastebuds!
11. Salt
I mean… This one is a given.
12. Chicken or beef
Because is your Jollof Rice really complete without ‘animal’?
13. Beef/chicken stock
Keyyy ingredient! The absence of this can spell doom for your Jollof Rice.
14. Vegetable oil
Preferably the one you just used to fry the chicken that has soaked up the spices.
15. Seasoning cubes
Because you need to season that rice well!
16. Bay leaf
For that extra, fabulous ‘scent’ and flavour.
17. Curry and thyme
This is a big part of what gives Jollof Rice that wonderful, endless flavour.
18. Cooking butter
This gives the Jollof Rice the most delectable texture!
19. Mixed vegetables
See ehn, Jollof Rice is an institution on its own. It doesn’t need to be messed with; it’s not fried rice. However, you can add mixed veggies if you want to give it small international exposure.
20. Dodo
Dodo is the perfect sidekick for almost any dish, but there’s just something about dodo and Jollof Rice. A match made in heaven.
21. Moi-moi
This one is for taste and nutrition balance and pure enjoyment.
22. Coleslaw/salad
Because it’s not a bad thing to use enjoyment to kill yourself.
Happy Jollof Rice Day! May the Jollof be with you. Let’s go out and celebrate!
East African food might be entirely new to the Nigerian palette, but I can assure you that you’re going to love these Kenyan dishes!
1. Ugali na Sukuma Wiki
The most popular Kenyan food, Ugali is a staple. It is made from cornmeal that is added to boiling water and stirred until it forms into a cake. When accompanied with beef, mushroom, fish sauce or sukuma wiki (green vegetable soup), this is one meal you’d like to try again.
2. Irio
Irio is a delicious local dish made of potatoes, peas, green vegetables and sometimes corn, that is boiled and then mashed. It is sometimes served with grilled steak called nyama choma. The combination is called Nyama na Irio. Irio can also be served with other Kenyan-style stews.
3. Githeri
Githeri is a delicious combination of beans, corn, beef, beef stock, potatoes and vegetables that are cooked in tomato sauce. It is usually served with either white bread or Swahili chapati. Chapati is Kenyans’ favourite bread, made with white flour, salt and oil.
4. Pilau
Pilau is rice flavoured with spices cooked in stock meat, chicken, fish or most especially, goat meat. Kinda like jollof rice. Totally delicious.
5. Matoke
Another Kenyan staple, Matoke is a delicious dish of plantain bananas that are cooked with some oil, tomatoes, onions, garlic, chilies, meat and lemon juice. The plantain bananas are cooked until very soft and it begins to form a thick, delicious sauce.
6. Maharagwe
Maharagwe is a sweet stew made up of red kidney beans cooked in coconut milk and spices. The coconut milk gives it a thick, buttery consistency and it is just perfect with some Chapati.
7. Nyama Choma
Nyama Choma is a delicacy of beef or goat roasted until very tender. Fish and chicken are also used. The meat is usually seasoned with salt and left to cook in its own juices, and it can be served with plain rice.
It’s ram season again!
I’m not saying that it’s the highlight of this season o, but you know… Ram is delicious, man.
The festive period is when everybody’s true colours come out, and Eid al-Adha issa real eye-opener.
You Muslims are casted and you don’t even know. Let me tell you how you guys behave when Sallah comes around.
Those of you that only go to mosque on Sallah but will still be prouding.
Last last God is watching us all in 3D.
Then there are those of you that have been only been waiting for this day just so you can show up and show out!
Pepper dem!
For some of you, this season means nothing but frustration.
“What do you mean ram is now 90k? Was it not just two days ago that I came here and you were selling for 65k?!”
Then there are those that this is their only interest.
Because it means you can run home from the mosque and kill your own ram. Food is life tbh.
Some of you catch the festive bug and are fully prepared to turn up!
Y’all are the real MVPs tbh.
And of course, there are those of you that will ghost on guys because of meat.
“Just call me when you dey my street” but two days later, your number is still switched off.
At least there are the people that will still share meat even if they don’t throw a party.
We appreciate you joor, because where else we for see meat? Your groundnut oil won’t finish.
Or is it the ones that think flight tickets are only available during Sallah?
Every Eid you’re “out of town”? Wawu.
Finally, we have those sure Muslim friends that even if they don’t have meat to give you, will still point you in the right direction.
“You smart. You loyal. I appreciate that.”
If you guys don’t want me to finish casting all your secrets, you’d better send some ram meat my way.
A word is enough o!
Eid Mubarak, brothers and sisters! Love and blessings!
A lot of people think going to a private university in Nigeria is an easier path to higher education, but it’s really not. While the private university struggles might be different from public universities, they are just as annoying.
Look at these.
When people tell me how ‘lucky’ I am to be going to a private university.
Daily devotion
First of all, you don’t have to wake up everyday at 5am to the blaring noise of a public announcement system and the grating voice of ‘Sister Jane’ shouting at you to “come out for morning devotion!” Don’t angry me.
Church
But of course you still have to go to church like 4 times a week. When you’re not the child of the devil and you don’t want a demerit.
Demerits
Any small thing, the enemies of progress will just be writing your name like… And if you lose enough demerit points, you go on suspension o. There are more possible ‘crimes’ than points sef.
Lights out
Before I entered university, I thought this was just a secondary school stoffs. I was wrong.
Beard gang?
What’s that? My brother you better go and trim your hair and beard low before they wipe it like magic for you.
Monitoring spirits
I also thought monitoring spirits existed just in the supernatural, but this school has shown me that they walk freely among us, bearing titles such as ‘porter’ and ‘security’.
Accidental wardrobe malfunction?
“Give her a demerit! And one for you, and for you…” Could this be life?
Stabbing class
Wanna stab class? You can’t. Don’t even think about it, if you no wan chop punishment.
Parties
The party might have been over before your exeat even comes through. Waste.
Watching your friends flex
This is how you look at your friends’ social media after they’ve finished posting about the mad party that you couldn’t get exeat for.
And finally…
How you look in wonder at all the freedom and life that is outside your school walls when you go home on break.
Good amala is hot, light, fluffy and lump-free, a thing of beauty and joy, kind of like this.
When accompanied by gbegiri, ewedu, a delicious stew and various ‘animals’, it is a match made in culinary heaven!
If you don’t like amala, sorry for you. Your tastebuds need divine intervention.
And for the rest of us, let’s not go about wasting money on rubbish amala. These are the very best spots in Lagos to find finger-licking amala worthy of the gods.
Amala Shitta – 26 Rabiatu Thompson Crescent, Shitta, Surulere
This legendary amala spot is not anybody’s mate. Apparently, it’s been running since ’67! This is hands-down one of the best places to eat amala anywhere!
Actually quite close to Amala Shitta, this is like a newer-generation version. You go here for the excellent amala, as well as the AC and authentic environment.
White House – 9 Chapel Street, Sabo, Yaba
At the heart of the startup hub of Lagos, this place has saved many young, hungry workers from hunger and bad amala! The best in the area.
Amala Beljium is straight fire! You just have to look at the number of people rushing to get food there for you to be convinced.
Iya Eba – 10 Berkeley Street, Lagos Island
This is another legendary spot. The food is so gooood wow! You’ll just start marking daily attendance.
Yakoyo – Olabode House, 217 Ikorodu Road, Ilupeju
This place served me some of the best amala I’d eaten in a long time!
First Bank Amala – Marina Street, Opp First Bank HQ, Lagos Island
This is also known as Defence Park Canteen. Whatever the name, the quality of their amala is always consistent!
Amala Yahoo – Victoria Street, Mechanic Village, Ogudu-Ojota, Ogudu
I don’t even care how the name came about. All I know is that whenever I’m in the area, I stop and buy this amala. E come be like curse. Superb!
Topshot Amala – Parkview Estate, Ikoyi
There’s no bad and bougie when it comes to amala. Even our Parkview brothers and sisters need a little amala love, and Topshot is the bomb!
Hey, if you don’t agree with me, make your own list… in the comments below lol! Or just tweet me @zikokomag what spot you think should have made the list!
Uncle Yemi Osinbajo has done it again. This time, he has shown out for guys about the dreadful SARS situation.
Why does it seem like whenever Baba Bubs goes on one of his frequent medical trips, things just seem to work a little better? Somebody help me say political gimmicks good governance.
On Tuesday August 14, the Acting President aka Uncle Yemi gave directives to the Inspector General of Police, Ibrahim Idris to overhaul the Special Anti-Robbery Squad (SARS).
We were shook!
Especially because all our complaints had always been brushed off as false or exaggerated.
— Abayomi Shogunle, 𝘧𝘴𝘪 (@YomiShogunle) July 26, 2018
Just a few weeks ago, Assistant Commissioner of Police, Yomi Shogunle still trolled Nigerians with this irresponsible tweet. He should better switch careers if he wants to be making silly jokes online.
Oh, you remember SARS, the police unit that was so infamous for their abuse of power and Nigerian citizens, we had to write you a survival guide?
This is just one of the many, many videos people have used to back their complaints. Let’s not even go into pictures and narratives. But we’re all lying, hey. The #EndSARS movement has been going for at least two years! Nonstop police brutality for two years.
While we’re overjoyed that our pleas and relentless #EndSARS campaign finally made some headway, we still have some doubts.
Way too many people have been unlawfully killed, jailed and extorted for us to just accept it, and things are often not what they seem in Nigeria. Gotta stay woke.
First of all, it is important to note that this overhaul doesn’t mean the police department is going to be scrapped.
This overhaul is more like a reform. In summary, the state SARS will be broken down and the officers reassigned to the already existing Federal SARS (there will only be FSARS). I know what you’re thinking, but chill. We are told that this is only going to be after investigations into the existing abuse allegations have been done, as well as mental evaluations and retraining.
Again, I know what you’re thinking, because even the Federal SARS people abuse the citizens.
The new FSARS is to be strictly intelligence-driven and their duties are to be restricted to the prevention and detection of armed robbery, kidnapping, and apprehension of offenders related to the stated offences. Nothing else.
At least that’s what they’re telling us. Me I’m only a reporter.
How are the illegal arrests going to stop, you ask?
Well, the new FSARS officers are now mandated to go about bearing proper identities. They will have a ‘new’ uniform so there will be no more random black-polo-clad-hoodlum-looking-ass-niggas jumping out of unmarked space buses. At least this will curb the possibility of the officers being impersonated by armed robbers and such. Also, THEY ARE NO LONGER AUTHORISED TO STOP AND SEARCH! Let’s forget the fact that I still saw the same SARS doing that just yesterday.
What can we do if we still get harassed?
Call the police lol. Honestly, I don’t have an answer for this. This is a commendable move on Uncle Yemi’s part, but we worry about the enforcement and implementation. Hopefully, this is not just another one of those reforms that don’t change anything at the end of the day.
And if you’re like me that is happy about this development but still believes this is just pre-election gra-gra and doesn’t trust anything this government does, I hope you’ve gotten your PVC o!
If you haven’t, there are two more weeks for you to register. Hurry! If you need any help, we gatchu!
There’s a world of food beyond our country’s borders that Nigerians need to explore, and an unexpected place to start is with Gambian food.
Like most of West Africa, they eat a lot of rice, usually made with many spicy sauces and stews. Their cuisine is actually quite similar to Nigeria’s, so trust when I say you’ll enjoy it!
Benachin is basically Gambian Jollof rice. Just look at it! We die here. We’ve been arguing with Ghanaians for decades about who has the best Jollof rice, what we didn’t know is that Gambians could give us both a run for our money.
The easiest way to explain Superkanja to a Nigerian is by saying it’s Gambia’s version of the Nigerian okra soup. The thing sweet die! For real, you have to try this. While we would usually eat this with something like eba, Gambians say we should try it with rice.
Yassa is a popular and fantastic Senegalese and Gambian spicy dish. It’s made out of either chicken or fish and cooked with chilies, lime, onions, mustard and many other spices.
Mbahal is like the Nigerian beans and rice dish that left the country as a child and is now full grown. It’s cooked with smoked fish, groundnuts, locust beans, black-eyed beans, white rice and so many more yummy ingredients.
Ebbeh is a chunky and delicious soupy dish made with vegetables, seafood, and cubes of cassava.
7. Nyambeh Nyebbeh
Nyambeh nyebbeh is a mix of cassava, soup stock, fish and spices. This reminds me of the Nigerian yam pottage. It is quite delicious.
8. Plasas
This is a delicious vegetable soup cooked using spinach, so it is very similar to ‘efo riro’. It pairs very well with most other foods.
Have you ever been to the Gambia or are you Gambian? What Gambian foods do you like, and what would you recommend for Nigerians?
If you have Nigerian parents like mine, asking for money was most likely a grueling and almost terrifying task. You try to prepare and brace yourself ahead of time, but the where, when, why and how combo will always leave you stunned. Here’s a few of their excuses!
As you’re there shivering, they’ll just be looking at you like…
You think I have money growing in the backyard?
Ah ahn, mummy. Only sometimes, now…
What happened to the money I just gave you?
When you’re hit with this question, confusion just sets in! Even if it has been three months since and they ask you, just pull out a pen and get ready to do some accounting. You’ve entered it.
Eh ehn… With your grades?
“Is it with D- in mathematics that you want to collect money? You can calculate money but not ordinary simple algebra??? My friend clear off!”
“When you’re always pressing phone.”
“Why won’t you need money when you are always pressing your phone?” Everything bad in life is because of the phone they bought for you, anyway.
Haven’t you been eating in this house?
But when did I start paying for food nah??? Even when asking for your own money, you have to be careful if you want to keep eating. Issa scam.
What are you even using money for?
Na wah o… Where do I even start?
Go and meet your mother/father.
Even when they know the other person isn’t around. Ugh!
Why didn’t you tell me since?
“And I just finished spending all the money I had o. Sorry.” Chei! But why?
Come and sell me/turn me to money.
Caution! Do not proceed!! Retreat!!!
I don’t have.
Cheee! This is the answer you meet at the final level. The painful boss. No chance to beg further, no progress, no explanation, just… no. You cannot argue with this, even if you see them with tons of money. Just accept your fate and go away. Slap is real.
But last last sha, all is for home training and in good faith, because they struggle too. Shout out to our amazing folks!
A wise man once said “He was a wise man who invented beer.” That wise man was Plato
How you gonna argue with Plato?
Nigerians love beer and we can’t even deny it. Beer parlors are always full, come rain or shine.
Don’t ask me how I know this. It’s research.
Research shows that Nigerians consume about 12.28 litres of beer per year, the most in Africa.
Appaz, we’re also the Giants of Africa when it comes to drinking.
Beer even has some health benefits! What more do you want from a drink?
For real lol. Beer can actually help with reducing the risk of heart disease, providing bone strength, reducing kidney stone, cancer and diabetes risk, improving eye health and much more! If you drink too much sha, it can also help beat up your liver.
These guys have even made a business out of “therapeutic beer”.
If you fall into the category of people that say “I don’t like beer”, I’m just here to tell you that you don’t know what you’re missing.
And if you need some more convincing, will these delicious beer cocktail recipes help?
Beer Punch
Get a large jug/bowl and mix in about 35cl of Sprite, 60cl of pineapple juice and six bottles/cans of beer. You can also throw in sliced lemons, limes, oranges or whatever for an extra touch. Trust me, this will change your mind about beer forever!
Bull’s Eye
Pour 80ml of lime juice (three or four limes) into a jug, add a can of beer and ginger ale, then add like two tablespoons of sugar. Stir well and pour over ice. This is so refreshing with a nice ‘punch’.
Lemon Shandy
Start with 60ml of lemonade and add 24cl of beer (almost an entire small bottle). Just keep adding until you’re happy with the taste. And if you’re extra like that, add a few fresh mint leaves. A much easier and local version of this drink is mixing beer and Sprite. So delicious!
Find more recipes here.
You know conversations are especially lit over beer, so drag your friends out this good Friday night and go turn up!
Buy some local beer to celebrate the day o, like Star Lager.
Buy Naija to grow the naira. 🙂
What is some of the best beer you’ve ever tried, and from where?
The most-beloved Premier League is back!
I would have said the UEFA Champions League, but a lot of you don’t make it that far hehe.
This is you as soon as the Premier League season ends
Even though there are like ten other competitions in the year. It is never enough.
For the one month between the end of the World Cup and the start of the Premier League, this is how you look
“What shall I do with my life now?”
You’ll just be playing FIFA anyhow and telling yourself that “at least it’s football.”
Even though you’re actually wack and will probably just get frustrated as your friend whoops you over and over.
When you check the calendar
This is what the days look like to you. “Na wah o, this month is slow o.” Even though it’s already the second day of the month.
When you have to pay your family and friends attention because, nothing else to do.
Only to realise that they haven’t forgiven you yet for choosing football over them.
That’s when you will discover your hidden talents.
I bet you didn’t know you could bake, huh?
This is you ordering your team’s new jersey even though you’ve been claiming broke to your family and girlfriend for weeks.
LOL let’s be honest, this isn’t you. You’re going to wash that your old jersey from two seasons ago, and you don’t have a girlfriend.
When one whole week of no football passes, then God blesses you with a few games.
International Champions Cup… well, close enough to Premier League.
But then you remember that you now have to pay for Cable regularly.
“Chimoooo! Almost twenty thaaasand!”
But no matter what it costs, no matter what it takes, you’ll be here to cheer your favourite team
Because what is true love without sacrifice?
So Premier League lovers, what other emotions have you experienced since the World Cup ended? How excited are you for the next season? Rep your club!
Beyoncé says, “I love my husband, but it is nothing like a conversation with a woman that understands you. I grow so much from those conversations.”
If you have girl friends, you already know that the friendship is always beautiful and totally lit! Girls just understand each other in some almost psychic ways.
You know what they say; the more the merrier! Why have one girl friend when you can have two, or three, or ten!
Sha make sure they’re good people o! There’s nothing like having positive women around you that totally get you! More reasons you should build a girl squad are…
You have people to talk to that can totally relate.
I mean, who else will understand why you’re crying over your shattered BlackUp compact?
You have a solid support system
Need a shoulder to cry on? How about four or five that understand you completely? Girlfriends will encourage you and remind you why you’re fire! You won’t have to deal with anything alone.
You can be your absolute wild self with them, and they won’t judge you.
Because they’ve probably done worse lol. Be ready for some extreme trolling, though!
You always have people to gist with
Girls talk about everything. Lol you guys have no idea how lit a girls’ Whatsapp group is. You will be laughing nonstop as you drag everyone and everything!
Even if they’re not all available, you will have at least one person who’ll keep you company.
You will always have the best and most diverse fashion advice
Friends never let friends go out looking foolish, so trust that these ladies will have your back and tell you the truth!
You have people to borrow stuff from
Whether clothes, shoes, wigs, makeup or jewellery, your squad will come always have something nice for when you need something to complement your slay.
It’s Girl Friend’s Day! Show your ride or die girl friends some love today, and let them know how awesome they are! Women are so powerful when they come together.
Even though Nigerians are usually always trolling Ghanaians on social media, deep down we actually love them and their food.
Here’s a few dee-lee-cious Ghanaian foods that you as a Nigerian is sure to love.
Waakye And Shito
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bepc8ZvgBzn/
Waakye (pronounced wa-chayy) is an absolutely delicious Ghanaian dish of rice and beans. When served with the Shito sauce, your Nigerian mind will be blown, and you will shamelessly ask for more.
Banku And Tilapia
https://www.instagram.com/p/BlvlKUHHzGe/
Banku is a lot like fufu, made by fermenting corn flour. It can be eaten with different soups and stews, but when paired with Ghana’s much-loved tilapia fish, shito and vegetables… Now that’s a match made in culinary heaven!
Fufu And Light Soup
https://www.instagram.com/p/Bi_PwaZhjmr/
Ghanaian Fufu is commonly made by “pounding” cassava and unripe plantains together. When paired with Light Soup, you just know it’s about to go down! Light Soup is a really tasty tomato based soup that can be made with chicken, goat, or pretty much any other meat.
Palava Sauce
https://www.instagram.com/p/BT1eyNaAWk3/
This picture is enough to convince you to try this. Palava Sauce is a delicacy made with meats, fish, vegetables and crushed bitter lemon seeds. Basically Ghana’s version of the Nigerian egusi and I gotta say… This bangs! Pair it with whatever you want and enjoy your life.
Abenkwan Palm Nut Soup
https://www.instagram.com/p/BQ9zjdHDgMd/
Abenkwan Palm Nut Soup is a rich and totally delicious soup made with fresh palm nuts. If you’ve ever tried Banga soup, well… This is Banga’s twin that went to Ghana and started thriving. Too delicious. Pair it with your favourite swallow and chop like king!
Kenkey
https://www.instagram.com/p/BfEWE2kFe8Z
Kenkey is one staple Ghanaian dish you’ll be unable to get enough of. It’s usually made out of ground maize, wrapped in banana leaves and boiled. Kind of like moi-moi, if you are a moi-moi lover this just might replace moi-moi’s place in your heart.
In case you needed a little more motivation to try out any of these dishes, just watch this video of Waakye being made. Any Ghanaians on here? Did we leave any one out? Let us know!
The Internet has gone mad again. I woke up to Duncan Mighty slander, wow.
Duncan Mighty trended on Twitter, and it’s not because he’s added another album to his famous five. People are saying Wizkid ‘revived’ Duncan’s career because of the Fake Love collabo.
This begs the question, did Duncan’s career ever die? Class is now in session, ladies and gentlemen.
No, it never did. Duncan Mighty has been giving us jams since 2008 that he dropped his first album, ‘Koliwater’. That album gave us hits like Wene Mighty, Ako Na Uche, along with 20 other tracks and it was a monster! Please tell me where you think Wizkid was in 2008. Wizkid called Duncan a legend here. Do they revive the careers of legends?
He dropped another four albums, with the last one being in 2016 called The Certificate that had hits like ‘Onyinye’ and ‘Port Harcourt Girl’.
This is 2018, and Duncan’s last successful album was 2016. Let’s do the math together, shall we?
Let me make a thread on this Duncan Mighty and Wizkid conversation. See below.
According to Joey Akan, Duncan Mighty was this close to starting a Duncan Mighty Republic. Something like Kalakuta to Lagosians, so you know it’s not a small thing.
But come sef, let’s reason; Duncan wrote and produced Fake Love, and he owned it! So I’m not understanding what people are talking about.
It’s like we have all forgotten ‘Obianuju’ that was a viral sensation or ‘I Don’t Give A Shot’. Come on, many of your faves can’t relate.
My dear Lagosians, there are 35 other states in Nigeria. I know it’s actually easy to forget so I won’t blame you too much. Duncan Mighty is King in the South. The fact that what you mostly hear is songs from other musicians is simply a matter of geography.
Honestly, this is what I think. I may be wrong (which I’m not lol). What do you guys believe? Comment below, or tweet us @zikokomag!
Disney is about to have the first African Disney Princess, and it is a really big deal.
Peep this article’s author name. 😀
I mean, there’s been eleven whole other princesses.
We’ve had multiple white princesses, a Native American princess, an Asian princess, but never an African one! I mean, Tiana of The Princess and the Frog was African-American, but Sadé has probably never gone abroad, yannoh.
So, what do we need to know about Sadé?
Sade is a warrior princess which kind of reminds us of Mulan.
We stan a fighting princess. Fight them in your diamond-encrusted dress, natural-haired sis!
Sadé has powers.
Well, she is an AfricanNigerian princess…
She has a cute prince as a sidekick, and an animal best friend.
Because after you finish making war…
Sadé’s kingdom is being threatened by a mysterious evil force, and she has to use her newly discovered powers to protect it.
Yup, this is definitely a Nigerian story. I mean, we already know Chiwetalu Agu is the one trying to take over the Kingdom.
This animated movie is still in the works so even though we know the producer is Rick Famuyiwa, there’s no cast, release date or anything else yet.
Nobody asked me sha, but this is who I’d cast if I had magical powers like… Sadé. 🙂
Funke Akindele voicing the older Sadé.
And if she can just do that Jenifa voice and accent, in fact parvect!
Banky W voicing the Prince
Because you already know the music will come naturally.
What does this mean though?
Representation. Because black, and African little girls need to know that they don’t need that accent, the abroad or that whiteness to feel like princesses.
What do you guys think about this movie?
Do you remember the Otedola Bridge fire from a month ago?
If you live in Lagos, you most likely heard about it, and haven’t forgotten since.
On the 28th of June in Berger, a moving petrol tanker caught fire due to an alleged brake failure.
It was devastating, horrific event. Twelve innocent souls lost their lives, and many more were injured and lost valuable property. You can read more about this here.
Our hearts still go out to the families of the deceased, the hurt and the traumatised.
So you can imagine how happy we were to hear that there would be a relief dinner to support them.
Some of our favourite chefs came together, and decided to use their talents to raise funds for the victims.
Really, not all heroes wear capes. Some wear aprons.
On the 28th of July 2018, nine of Nigeria’s leading chefs will prepare a nine-course dinner with 100% of the proceeds going to aid those affected by the fire.
The produce and ingredients have all been donated by some amazing businesses and farmers.
The produce has been locally sourced as well. Nothing used will be imported, even down to salt.
This is also an opportunity to showcase Nigerian cuisine and the fact that we have so much more to offer than negativity.
Newly opened fine-dining restaurant 788 On The Sea, Lekki has been so kind as to donate their space to host this fundraising dinner.
It really is going to be an experience worth it in every sense. 788 On The Sea is a beautiful space.
Come for some fine dining by some of Nigeria’s finest chefs in a beautiful space, while helping those in need out.
It really doesn’t get much better than this.
The tickets are N40,000 per head and include a champagne reception, as well as two glasses of wine. You can also book tables of six, eight or ten people.
I’m sure that we would all like to help out, but even if you can’t make it to the dinner, there’s still a way you can help.
Please spread the word with everyone you can think of. You never know who can help, or who would simply be interested in the dinner. It is also a way to appreciate the good these chefs are doing.
No matter where I go in this Nigeria (or outside), I will always look for good amala to buy. I’m now hunting down amala in Abuja.
Amala is my best friend.
Apparently, even my brothers and sisters up North have discovered the succulent beauty of this blessing.
So if you are passing through or live in Abuja but don’t know where to find good amala, here are some of the best places doing the Lord’s good work.
1. Iya Oyo Amala – 112 Idris Gidado St, Wuye
Even though it still maintains its buka identity, everybody from governors to regular folk like us comes here to buy some of the best amala in Abuja.
2. Amala Place – 67 Cadastra Zone, Mabushi
Amala place is a proper mama-put. And you know what they say about mama-puts – they make the best food. For real.
3. Amala Korner – Woodbridge Garden, Kur Mohammed Way, Behind Central mosque, CBD
This is a new-generation buka. The environment is quite nice, however, the food is even better.
4. Amala Coded – 4 Atakpame Street, off Adetokunbo Ademola Crescent, Wuse 2
This place has more ‘eatery’ vibes than buka, but trust me, the food is just as good! The place looks quite nice.
5. Amala Stodiez Garden – 11 Tafawa Balewa Way, Garki
This is a nice garden space that you can go to relieve stress, as well as hunger. Their amala bangs!
6. Kemi’s Delicacies – 16 Usuma Close, Maitama
This is actually open on Saturdays, unlike most bukas. However, the food is good enough for you to keep going back every weekend.
7. Biobak Kitchen – 1274 Nkwere Crescent, Garki
Biobak is a major step up from the average local buka. The environment is really nice, and their amala matches up well.
I’m still exploring some of the best spots, so if you know any, please share! You can tweet us @zikokomag!
West African countries have quite a lot in common when it comes to food and drink. Just see how many countries are claiming ownership of Jollof rice.
But there is also a lot of diversity we can’t help but appreciate. You probably already know what to eat when you travel across West Africa, but have you ever wondered what to drink? Check this out!
La Beninoise – Benin Republic
This is the official national drink, and definitely the cheapest beer to buy in Benin.
Zoom Koom – Burkina Faso
The traditional drink of Burkina Faso, zoom koom is a flour-based drink. It sounds a little weird, but it’s so delicious!
Grogue – Cape Verde
Cape Verde’s national drink is grogue – a rum distilled from sugar cane that has an alcohol percentage of over 40%! Honestly, the country sounds lit.
Bangui – Ivory Coast
Bangui is the national drink of Ivory Coast, and it is the local palm wine. It looks milky and is both bitter/sour and sweet.
Attaya – Gambia, Senegal
Attaya is a green tea and a way of Gambian and Senegalese life. It is served extremely hot, strong and sweet.
Asaana – Ghana
Asaana is a delicious Ghanaian drink made from fermented corn and caramelized sugar. It is absolutely refreshing and it tastes great.
Ginger Juice – Guinea
This is a Guinean drink that is everything you need it to be. It is the most delicious balance between spicy and sweet. Ask for it when next you’re in the region.
Lemongrass Tea – Liberia, Sierra Leone
This drink tastes as good as it smells… maybe better lol. This drink is a favourite in Liberia and Sierra Leone.
Sweet Tea – Mali, Mauritania
Mali and Mauritania have a sweet green tea culture. It is served three times from the same pot; the first is bitter as death, the second is slightly sweetened like life, and the third being as sweet as love, as is popularly said.
Biere Niger – Niger
Although alcohol is restricted in Niger, its national drink is Biere Niger, and it is actually quite good.
Ogogoro – Nigeria
This is a very potent alcoholic drink that is distilled from fermented Raphia palm tree juice. Advance with caution.
Saint Helena – Tungi Spirit
Tungi is an alcoholic drink distilled from the cactus pear fruit. It is very strong, so make sure you’re careful with this.
Sao Tome and Principe – Palm Wine
This is a delicious sour/sweet alcoholic drink made from the sap of certain palm trees. You can pretty much find this across West Africa.
Sodabi – Togo
And finally, we have Sodabi. This is a liquor made by distilling palm wine. It’s an award-winning drink, so you can guarantee that it’s good!
What drink are you most interested in trying? And if you’re a connoisseur, what drink would you recommend? Tweet us @zikokomag!
If you prowl these Nigerian Internet streets like I do, or even just watch TV, you’ve probably heard about/seen Lara And The Beat.
Here’s the trailer!
Personally, from the trailer alone, I really want to watch this.
I mean, I have a few questions…
Why so beautiful
Seyi Shay and Vector Tha Viper star in this movie. These are two of our music industry’s most attractive people right now, so ONE TICKET PLEASE! Like, everyone in the cast is gorgeous!
Apart from Vector making our hearts go gbim-gbim in this movie, I have another question:
He can act??? Wawuu… I hope I’ll even be able to focus on the movie and not his smile or his- *clears throat*
It’s really looks like a beautiful, dreamy story
Did you see those outfits and locations, lighting and the beautiful faces?! Even the storyline seems like one of those type stories that leaves you wishfully smiling all through.
Chinedu Ikedieze
I will watch anything that Chinedu Ikedieze acts in, plain and simple. Plus, that slap!
What the hell was that song that Seyi Shay was singing loool?
This is like the most important question to me, to be honest. Whattt???
The quality looks really good!
From the shots and a cast of powerhouses like Chioma Akoptha, Uche Jombo, Chinedu Ikedieze, Wale Ojo and so many more, at least I know that I will get quality!
This is a very feel-good movie but it doesn’t feel dead. Might there be something to learn here?
Anyhow sha, it’s the weekend, so let me go and check out what’s really going on with Ms. Lara Giwa.
Who’s going to see Lara And The Beat? Let me know what you guys think about it!
According to Nollywood, Nigerian wives are beautiful and diverse creatures, but they must fit into one of these categories.
Because, you know, Nollywood is the ultimate guide.
The lazy wife.
The ones that will hide pots and plates so they won’t have to wash them.
The nagging wife.
Ehn! These ones will use talk and complaints to kill you.
The prayer warrior.
Mama routinely fires demons back to hell on behalf of the entire family.
The troublemaker.
Anywhere, anytime, these ones are ready to fight you, verbally or physically.
The long-suffering wife.
Superwoman! Champion! These ones are ride or die, even through the most impossible situations.
The barren wife.
“Ordinary small baby, these ones can’t create. Why are you even a woman?” – Every Annoying Nollywood Character, ever.
The wayward wife.
These ones have joined bad gang.
The evil wife.
It is witchcraft that is usually doing these ones. If you are looking for your child, check their houses.
The rich/spoiled wife.
Apparently, it is too much money that makes these wives behave anyhow. If you annoy them too much, they will just call daddy.
The illiterate wife.
“Wawu! Machine that can wash cloth?” They usually bring these ones from the village.
What stereotypical Nigerian wife did we miss? Comment below, or tweet us @zikokomag!
Don’t even argue with me, because we can fight.
1. Ewa Agoyin
You tell me what other food is this delicious, and versatile. Ewa agoyin with agege bread, plantain, garri, yam…
2. Ekpang nkukwo
Also known as food of the gods, ekpang nkukwo is royal yam pottage. A chief. Chairman, sir.
3. Garri
Garri is a true Nigerian champion. Also known as cassava flakes, this can be drunk, moulded into eba, sprinkled on beans, made into a “cake”… The possibilities are endless.
4. Agege bread
Agege bread is not just any bread. Delicious, stretchy especially when warm, filling, perfect texture… this is the godfather of bread. You can eat it with stew, eggs, beans, peanut butter… you can even eat it alone!
5. Indomie
Indomie is a Nigerian childhood delicacy. You’d think we’d be tired of it by now, but when a food is this versatile and delicious, you eat it forever.
6. Tuwo shinkafa
A lot of you don’t know the wonder that is tuwo shinkafa, and that is entirely your fault. Aswearrugad, this food doesn’t get the recognition it deserves.
7. Roasted yam and pepper sauce
A lot of us just walk past these people selling roasted yam, not realising the wonder we’re ignoring. I used to be like that too, until God opened my eyes and mouth.
8. Nigerian party Jollof rice
Call it by the right name. This can never be overrated or even appropriately rated, so don’t even argue. King J.
What underrated Nigerian food did I miss on this list?
I’m not saying that I go to weddings because of food, but if there’s no food, I’m not going anywhere! If you’re someone like me, then I’m sure you’ve noticed these stages of getting food at Nigerian weddings.
Like, we all know that after small dancing, they will serve food. So tell me why you’re delaying my joy with your dance if you’re not wicked.
All of us have almost died, but you’re there doing shoki.
When they finally bring the food out, but keep skipping you.
Eskis me, sah. Am I invisible?
When the hunger gets too much, you just have to find the person that invited you.
See how your people are doing me. I’m hungry, epp.
When the waiter eventually heads your way to take your order.
Then comes back again and again… for the same order.
The same waiter comes back with a tray high above his head, and you’re excited for your food.
Only for him to lower it and give you water.
Then the gods finally smile on you and they bring you small chops.
Wawu… So I survived this torture?
Finally, they bring the jollof rice to your table.
By this time, you’re already shaking. And as your fate will have it, the plates finish before they reach you. You want to start shouting, but home training.
The waiter comes back with his tray, only to give you yam pottage and tell you that jollof rice has finished.
Whattt??? Jesus, is this a heart attack?
Have a wedding food nightmare story? Share with us, let’s laugh at you too!
There’s nothing like a mama-put. They always have cheap, fresh, hot food that somehow, is sweeter than everyone else’s. Yes, please! For those of you that don’t know where to experience the best buka food in Lagos, keep reading.
1. Amala Shitta – 26 Rabiatu Thompson Crescent, Shitta, Surulere
Hands down, this is the best place to get amala in Surulere. It’s actually legendary.
2. Iya Eba – 10 Berkeley Street, Lagos Island
This is another legendary spot that has been saving people from time! Despite the name, they have other delicious foods, especially the amala!
3. White House – 9 Chapel Street, Sabo, Yaba
For everything from light meals like rice and plantain to solids like Amala and Eba, White House does it all, and well!
4. Designer Rice – 14 Bank Olemoh Street, Surulere
If you want to go crazy on some of the best rice and pepper stew with assorted meat, Designer Rice is the place to lose your mind.
For delicious amala around the Amuwo-Odofin area, just find Amala Beljium. You’ll be going back for more.
Okay, so I know I’ve eaten at a lot of bukas, but I definitely don’t have them all here! Tell me, what awesome Lagos buka have I missed?
Nigerians love to dance, for sure! From time, we’ve always come up with amazing moves to go with catchy tunes, but I’m going to tell you about some of the most popular ones from say, the last twenty years, and the artists that made them so popular.
Makossa
If you’re Nigerian, you’ve definitely bust this move before. No need to talk too much. This move that Awilo Logomba popularised over Nigeria and other parts of Africa like a virus! You’ll definitely still see a few people do this dance.
Galala
Hoo mai gosh, Daddy Showkey was a beast with the galala! He had everyone and their uncle trying to do it, even though we all knew it was for the more flexible of us. Still, this is another move that still creeps into modern Nigerian dance.
Suo
Suo came in and booted galala out of the game. Popularised by Marvellous Benjy, this move curiously resembles the movement you make when pulling a generator. Anyhow, the song and dance became extremely popular, and live to this day.
Yahoozee
Olu Maintain came with the Yahoozee song and the accompanying dance, and Nigerians went crazy! Although it’s not so popular these days, the dance spread like wildfire.
Alanta
Loool this is actually a dance of madness, and Artquake made sure that Nigerians caught the bug. Moving like you’re putting a fire on your clothes out, this is still done today!
Etighi
Even though Etighi is a traditional dance from the Calabar/Akwa Ibom region of Nigeria, a lot of people didn’t know this until Iyanya came and spread it across Nigeria with his song, Kukere. It burned really brightly but died just as quickly.
Skelewu
Kindly brought to us all by Davido, he taught us how to do this move which quickly caught on, especially because of his similarly titled, catchy song.
Shoki
Lil Kesh really made his mark with this one. This shoki dance and song spread like a viral infection. Still one of the most expressive and creative dances, shoki took over all other Nigerian dance steps.
Shaku Shaku
This one, we’re still in the middle of. Popularised by such songs as ‘Shepeteri’ and ‘Legbegbe’, all you need to be able to do this is a lot of coordination and a lot of creativity. Not much.
Whether you work in a small office or a big corporation, you’re definitely going to meet all sorts of people. Here are 10 types of people you probably have in your office right now!
1. Early birds/night owls
You know, those people that are always the first in and last out. The ones that’ll have you wondering if there is someone chasing them from their houses. You’re making the rest of us look bad, uncle!
2. Perpetual latecomers
Loool those ones that can’t be on time to work unless by a divine act of God. They are usually the most creative people because they have to come up with a new lie every day.
3. Style icons
These ones don’t come to play; they come to slay. Our colleagues that even on casual Fridays wear three-piece suits and six-inch heels with full makeup. You’ll just be looking at them and thinking “you have power o…”
4. Always sleepy
These ones are always ‘offline’. Small quiet like this, or if the boss steps out, they’re already making their way to dreamland. It’s an amazing something.
5. Chatterboxes
The ones that if you mistakenly even look their way, they will start talking about any and everything. Just shoot me!
6. Forever cold
Even if it’s 80 degrees outside, there is always that one colleague that is always cold. Always. Any small thing “please put off the AC now. You want to kill somebody?”
7. Office gossip
The way these ones are always gathering and spilling tea, you just have to wonder how they get anything done. You’ll even start to fear them because their powers are too great for you to comprehend.
8. Salespeople
Then we have the salespeople. The ones who have great entrepreneurial spirits and are always selling one thing or the other. They’ll try to sell every useless trinket, and try to pressure or guilt you into buying. No, bro.
9. Assistant boss
These are the guys that once given a little responsibility, let it get to their head and they start feeling like the boss. If I slap you ehn, your swollen head will reduce.
10. Ghost worker
Now, these ones are the people that if you see them in your office, you wonder if there’s a new employee, even though they’ve been working there for 3 years. They’re so quiet and reserved, they’re pretty much invisible. Ghosts.
The visa application struggle is very real with our not-so-much-loved Nigerian passport, and a lot of us have learned that the hard way. However, there are still a few countries that will have us with no hassle! Check out these African countries you can visit visa-free.
Thank God, sha. We never cast for here.
1. Cape Verde – West Africa
A former Portuguese colony, this beautiful island country is located on the West African coast. The official language is Portuguese, and the national language is Kriolu. Cape Verde has amazing weather and is a great choice for a visit.
2. The Comoro Islands – East Africa
Comoros is a constellation of islands off the south-east coast of Africa, east of Mozambique and north-west of Madagascar. Although The Comoro Islands is listed as visa-free for Nigerians, we still have to get visas on arrival. Life. There are lots of exciting touristy things you can do on the islands, so you should definitely check it out.
3. The Gambia – West Africa
Africa’s smallest country, The Gambia is absolutely beautiful and is known for its diverse ecosystems around the central Gambia River, abundant wildlife, beaches, and so much more. It has it all. Nigerians can visit The Gambia visa-free for up to 90 days.
4. Ghana – West Africa
As part of ECOWAS benefits, Nigerians can enter our sister country visa-free, but sometimes, visas may be given on arrival. Ghana is famous for its slave-trade historic artefacts, beautiful beaches and parks, and Shatta Wale lol. You should definitely visit.
5. Kenya – East Africa
Kenya is a beautiful country with incredible wildlife. Nigerians can visit for up to 90 days, visa-free. From fun rides through the safari to snorkelling, Kenya is one of Africa’s most impressive vacation locations.
6. Madagascar – East Africa
Madagascar is situated off the South East coast of Mozambique and is the world’s 4th largest island. Different species of palm trees surround the waters and you can go swimming or snorkelling in the Indian Ocean. In Madagascar, Nigerians receive visas on arrival.
7. Chad – Central Africa
Chad is located in the central African region and is home to a wide variety of wild animals. You can visit Chad visa-free and can pay a visit to the Zakouma National Park which has 44 species of large animals and many species of birds. There are also many interesting sandstone formations.
8. Mauritania – West Africa
Mauritania a beautiful desert country situated between Morocco, Mali, Algeria, Senegal, and the sweep of the Atlantic Ocean. On arrival, Nigerians can acquire a visa. You can cross the desert on a camel, or explore Chinguetti, an impressive “Old City”; a crumbling, sandstone village, with various antiquated mosques and a few libraries.
9. Mauritius – East Africa
Mauritius is a gorgeous island nation located along the coast of the Indian Ocean, off the southeast coast of Africa. Mauritius is an English/French-speaking country with a tropical climate, clear and warm sea waters and beaches. A perfect romantic getaway spot, you can go snorkelling, swimming or scuba-diving. For 90 days, Nigerians can visit Mauritius visa-free.
10. Seychelles – East Africa
Seychelles is located off the coast of East Africa in the Indian Ocean and is bordered by other islands like Zanzibar, Madagascar and Mauritius. The beautiful country of 115 islands boasts of a diverse blend of cultures and has some of the best beaches in the world. It offers Nigerians a visitor’s permit for one month.
Nollywood has come a really long way, and that is greatly due to the amazing work of some iconic actors and actresses. We grew up with these stars, and we absolutely love and appreciate their work. Keeping up with them, we look at where some of them are now.
Clarion Chukwurah
If you ever watched Nollywood movies back in the day, there’s no way you don’t know the beautiful Clarion Chukwurah. Always playing interesting and daring roles, the award-winning actress who is also the mother of popular music video director Clarence Peters, is currently living her best life in the United States, doing great humanitarian work.
Richard Mofe-Damijo
Ah, RMD… Nollywood’s Denzel Washington. He’s a handsome award-winning actor and former Delta State Commissioner for Culture and Tourism. He’s still acting and on our screens, much to our delight.
Eucharia Anunobi
You can’t not know Eucharia. Her roles were so daring and exciting! She’s a true screen goddess. The beautiful actress is now a pastor at a church in Egbeda, Lagos.
Saint Obi
You should know this name, as well as the face. Obinna Nwafor, who is more popularly known as Saint Obi, is one of those Nigerian actors that you just had to look out for back in the day. He was in everything! Lucky for us, even though his main focus now is business, he still graces our screens.
Liz Benson
Another absolutely beautiful screen goddess, Elizabeth Benson is also a philanthropist, but best of all, she still acts!
Pete Edochie
Chief Pete Edochie is an award-winning actor, considered one of Africa’s most talented, and one of Nigeria’s favourites, despite his many roles as a wicked/evil man. He has given us many funny quotes and memes, and we absolutely love him! Although he no longer acts like before, we’re quite happy to know that he’s alive and doing well.
Patience Ozokwor
Patience Ozokwor is a musician, fashion designer, gospel singer and award-winning actress. Like Pete Edochie, she has played a lot of wicked/evil roles, but we still love her like that! She’s an evangelist now, but she still acts, to our great delight. She’s definitely one of Nigeria’s most talented actresses.
Sam Dede
Sam Dede is an award-winning actor, director, politician and lecturer. He has starred in such iconic movies as Issakaba and Igodo, so you just know that this man was badass back in the day! He is currently a senior lecturer of Theatre Arts at the University of Port Harcourt but still acts from time to time, and is doing quite well.
Regina Askia
When you think of Regina Askia-Williams, I’m sure stunning beauty first comes to mind. An ex-beauty queen, Regina shot to fame as the Most Beautiful Girl In Nigeria in 1989, then went on to become an award-winning actress. She is now a family nurse practitioner in the US, a healthcare and educational activist, television producer, writer, and public speaker.
Zack Orji
Zachee Ama Orji was one of the ultimate baby boys that year. He is an award-winning actor, director, producer and filmmaker, as well as a pastor. He still graces our screens, and is even better than before!
If you live in Lagos or have paid even just a visit, you should know Lagos traffic well.
You just have to eat to distract yourself from the fact that you’re about to die in traffic. Here are some of the things Nigerians have come to recognise as traffic food.
Gala and La Casera
This is a timeless classic. For as long as I can remember, this has been the go-to. Delicious, filling and sooo refreshing especially when the LaCasera is cold, you can’t go wrong with this one.
Puff-Puff/Egg roll and Coke
You smell before you even see these. Some sweet angels display these delicious pastries in show-glasses. Even if you weren’t hungry before, you just might start starving. Wash it down with some chilled Coke and feel alright.
Pure Bliss and Hollandia Yoghurt
This is just pure milky goodness. A drug.
Plantain Chips and Fanta/Coke
Sweet and spicy, salty or plain, I really don’t see how you can go wrong with plantain chips. When you see this guy, just wind your window down and start shouting. This goes with pretty much any drink, to be honest.
Cashew/groundnuts/walnuts and Fanta
And if you’re not famished but only feeling a little peckish, these delicious and nutritious nuts have come to save you! Look around for your favourite drink, and you’re good to go… or not. There’s probably still traffic.
Boli and Groundnuts with Lucozade Boost
Plantain again! See, not all heroes wear capes. This is a delicious hero. Hot, fresh and filling, your mood will just elevate. Make sure you buy enough o! Just add Lucozade to boost your morale.
Corn and coconut with water
Boli and groundnuts’ brother that couldn’t attain the same greatness, corn and coconut can’t even be slept on. Boiled or roasted, this is always a good (healthy too) choice. Drink cold water, and you will just relax.
Popcorn and Fanta
Lagos traffic is always a movie, so trust me, the popcorn is going to come in handy. Just wash it down with Fanta to calm your navs.
Fruit and water
And for my fitfam, you can buy all sorts of fruit in traffic. From pineapples and pawpaws to apples and bananas, Lagos traffic has got it all trust me.
Dino Melaye – you must have heard of him if you’re Nigerian. Or even if you’re not, because he’s that big of a star. Still, let me give you a brief introduction. He’s a Nigerian senator, an accomplished actor and musician, as well as the ultimate baby boy. Here’s just a few of Dino’s most iconic moments.
Just look at that smize! This is the level of baby boy I aspire to.
Ajekun iya ni’oje
Ah… This one is a classic. No Dino Melaye story can be told without adding his rather iconic diss song to Kogi State governor Yahaya Bello, after it was confirmed that he is indeed, educated. The details of their battle might be fuzzy, but this song is evergreen to us.
His entire music career.
Just in case y’all didn’t know, Dino officially entered the music scene not when he performed ‘Ajekun Iya’ live, but when he appeared in the music video…of a hit song about himself! You can’t tell me nothing – he’s living his best life.
Showing up in a stretcher to court.
Moving on from music, Dino has also tried his hand at acting. This was originally his true love, and he has a few acting credits under his Gucci belt. One of his most famous and challenging roles was when he abandoned his fleet of exotic foreign cars, and pulled up to an Abuja court on a stretcher for allegedly breaking the windshield of a police vehicle and threatening to kill himself. A revolutionary.
Jean-Claude Melaye.
The action hero none of us realized we needed, Dino actually performs his own stunts. He was arrested in Abuja in connection to a murder case and other criminal activities, and apparently assumed he would be interrogated there. However, the police had a few tricks up their sleeves and started heading towards Kogi State. Terrified of what awaited him, Dino took a leap of faith out of the moving police vehicle.
The Nightcrawler.
Call me naive, but you tell me how else someone whose passport was supposedly seized could leave Nigeria and mysteriously appear in the abroad. I choose to believe he’s actually Nightcrawler because it makes no sense. Baba actually posted this picture with his chest, with the caption “Happy to be away from the joke going on in Naija today.” as his caption to really pepper Nigeria. Teach us your ways, sir.
THIS outfit!
Dino’s sense of style is just as vibrant as his personality. He is truly a style icon of our time. Dino actually broke the internet this day that he stepped out in designer, looking like the African Red Ranger.
A ladies’ man.
Although Dino has not been known for his empowerment of the Nigerian woman, he came to our defense like the knight in shining armor that he’s really not, when he went on a really shady rant on the Senate floor. Perhaps guilt-triggered by the former Edo State governor’s appeal to support more made-in-Nigeria products, Dino infamously asked Nigerians to ignore the governor, whom he said chose not to “patronise ‘made-in-Nigeria women but a foreign one”, referring to Oshiomole’s Cape Verdean wife. Yikes.
No vex, na God.
At the end of the day, you can’t even vex for Dino and his antics, because last last, na God.
