Nigeria: What's On?!

Brand new magazine launches into Nigerian fashion space

2010-10-05T15:46:00.001Z

Mannequin Magazine, the novel editorial fashion magazine for women has hit the streets of Lagos bringing with it an edge – one of style, fashion, entertainment and exposure.

Having a strong fashion background from working with reputable fashion giants, the likes of GAP, Topshop, Bank and Republic, in organizing fashion shows as well as its vast experience with stylists and photographers in the industry, Mannequin aims to set a different kind of standard in Nigerian fashion editorials.

With its slogan – ‘Dream It. Change It. Work It’, Mannequin believes in the empowerment and perfection of women with fashion being a major part. The magazine’s intention is to guide readers accordingly, updating them with the latest trends and news, offering inspiration and encouraging growth in almost all spheres of their lives. Mannequin’s belief is that fashion is not just in the clothes a woman wears but how they are worn, how she carries herself and how she lives.

Mannequin Magazine boasts of being Nigeria's first real fashion magazine and aims to be the ultimate African fashion bible. In order to do this, the magazine comes in a handy size, which fits right into a handbag and comes out monthly.

Having been present in the Nigerian online blogging and web space for over a year, the magazine’s website has a daily traffic of over 230,000 hits.

The first, “Nouveau” issue launched on October 1st, 2010 with Miss Nigeria, Cynthia Omorodion, Studio 53 Extra’s Eku Edewor and female rap artist Mo'Cheddah on the cover. These women are the new power figures in their various fields, modeling, fashion and television and music respectively. The official launch is billed to take place on the October 10, 2010, (10.10.10) at an exclusive venue in the high-brow area of Victoria Island, Lagos.

Mannequin Magazine costs N700 and is available throughout Lagos with plans of reaching other states in Nigeria within a few months. The web address is www.mannequin-magazine.com

Project Desiree III Countdown!!

2010-09-14T13:26:00.006Z

This year's edition of Project Desiree, a major annual fund raising event has been scheduled for Friday, September 24 2010. The program which features comedy, play and fashion aims at raising N1.8m to expand a full scholarship program beyond the 8 kids currently sponsored. Event details below:

Venue: Coral Hall, Mothercare. Building 21b, Idowu Martins Street, VI

Time: 6pm – 8pm

Comedians: Senior Advocate of Comedy (SACO), AK 47, Firstbon

Fashion: James Johnson, Charles Anthony, 28 The Bag Company, El-karis Clothing Accessories, D’Lamila couture.

It will be an interactive, entertaining, fun-filled and meaningful event in impacting the lives of students under the Project Desiree programme.

RSVP: Ayo on 07035131187 and ayoolowo@yahoo.com

Don't Miss It!!

The BBG Store

2010-07-05T16:19:00.009Z

Here are pictures from the official BBG opening. Join the group on facebook and visit the store at 1, Adeola Hopewell Street (Sanusi Fafunwa junction), Victoria Island. Lagos

Phenomenon Captured...

2010-04-20T22:21:00.006Z

Pictures from the official Phenomenon Store opening on Saturday the 20th of March in Port-Harcourt, Nigeria.

The Phenomenon revealed.....

2010-03-18T09:46:00.004Z

On Saturday the 20^th of March 2010, Phenomenon, an upscale unisex boutique will be opening a store in the Garden City of Port Harcourt at the Genesis centre.

PHENOMENON is one of Lagos finest fashion forward unisex boutiques and has been in existence since 1999, with its flagship store located on Awolowo road in Ikoyi and a branch at the ultra modern Palms shopping mall in Lekki. It is well known for unique and exclusive designer fashion, matching any other boutique in Europe . Phenomenon stocks a wide range of designer brands such as Christian Louboutin, Alexander McQueen, Giuseppe Zanotti, Sergio Rossi, Viktor ‘N’ Rolf, Louis Vuitton, Paul smith, Billionaire by Angelo Galasso and many more.

Come Saturday the 12^th of March the Genesis Centre will play host to the crème de-la crème of Port Harcourt ociety as Phenomenon throws opens its doors with hors-d’oeuvre and cocktails .

DETAILS

Date: Saturday, 20^th March 2010

Venue: 1^st Floor Genesis Centre, 52, Tombia Street, G.R.A Phase 1 Port- Harcourt.

Time: 2 – 8PM

RSVP: 08023288648

For press inquiries, contact The Socialyte PR – 08039456987

FUSION RELOADED

2010-03-10T12:15:00.008Z

Fusion is Back this month! Featuring designs from d’zyN couture, Tai, Urban style, House of Silk, House of Marie, Coco' couture and Phunkafrique. Also featuring vendors selling men's fashion, pearls and beads, clothing accessories, scarves, footwear, leather accessories, fragrances, cosmetics, gemstones and trimmings! For a full list of vendors see the bottom of this post!

Venue: The Shehu Musa Yar'Adua Centre, Abuja (map)

Date: 27th March, 2010

Time: 12pm - 7pm

It will be Abuja's biggest fashion and beauty sale/event with 10% of all profit going to the FOR SISTERS GIVE charity.

There will be a fantastic goodie bag for the first guest to spend N50000 and above. All types of payment welcome (cash, cheques*, bank cards*)

There will be photo shoot slots as well as hair styling, manicure/pedicure slots and lots to eat and drink!

In the spirit of Breast and Cervical cancer awareness, MEDICAID DIAGNOSTICS will be making bookings for screening tests from these deadly but preventable diseases at a discount.

* Conditions apply for payment type contact drsamiah@gmail.com for more info

Vendor List

---------------

- Badela Designs

- Bath and Body Works

- Caxton Alile Cards

- Coco' couture

- Croft Studios

- D'Zyn Couture

- Fabrica

- Fully Charged

- Gemstones

- Hayah

- House of Marie

- House of Silk

- Iyannu

- Izizi's Bodyline

- JamesLULLY designs

- Jidda’s pride

- Just Scarves

- Kazelos pearls

- Literati

- Mi Regalio

- Ola Accessories

- Phunkafrique

- Pillow Talk

- PNJC

- Shukr

- Simply Beautiful

- Simply Shoes

- Sleek Makeup

- Soulskin

- Tai

- The Source

- TM Lewin

- Trinkets

- Urban Fashion

- Urban Style

- Venello

Details of the last fusion event here

Nigeria is 50 this year!!

2010-01-11T17:22:00.006Z

Happy New Year! Nigeria will be 50 this year! :o)

Nigerians are fortunate to live in a nation which is fast growing, having intelligent and resourceful people with strong cultural backgrounds, and having a vast amount of resources and raw materials. In the same vein, there is a huge potential for change and economic development as well as social, infrastructural and political improvement. Nonetheless, we are proudly Nigerian and NO we are not terrorists :)

Pictures from the Savers Q Launch

2009-12-22T14:03:00.000Z

Signatures @ Pattaya

2009-12-17T08:36:00.006Z

Signatures is about creating awareness to young and vibrant ideas and businesses, Like you, we're fashionistas who love bargains! At least every quarter we provide a unique opportunity for Lagos savviest shoppers to stock up on the latest in women's clothing, hats, shoes, lingerie, loungewear, jewellery, accessories, makeup, home fragrance and great presents ideas. However this is not limited to Women alone, Men love fashion too and so do children.

Signatures as the name is called deals with other peoples labels and works, takes a personal interest in creating each event. What she particularly enjoys is discovering new talent and bringing them public attention, often for the first time.

Enjoy great bargains and quality social networking as you meet the cream of today's newest designers each presenting their own labels together with insiders from many of the hottest names in fashion! Don't battle your way through traffic to shop when you can find it all under one roof at Signatures.

Up to twenty labels in all! Plus, we'll have ice-cool music playing throughout the event.

The Event

Date: 20^th December 2009

Time: 12pm-6pm

Venue: Pattaya Thai, 13a Musa Yar'Adua street. Victoria Island. Map

Booths are N7,500 interested Vendors should call 08033344796.

The Zebra Garden Party and Fundraiser

2009-12-15T09:58:00.012Z

On the 18th of December 2009, Zebra Living will host a special fundraising event, The Zebra Garden Party.

The 2009 Zebra Garden Party promises to be a tasteful, dynamic, culture-inspired evening which we hope will raise significant funds for our selected causes and enhance the lives of everyone associated with it and our wider Zebra Community Initiative.

Zebra Garden Party Highlights INCLUDE:

* Live Performance from the MOBO award winner, NNEKA

* Musical Performances from our friends and favorites like Yinka Davies, Mike Aremu, Mfon, Awoko and our very own Irie Band.

* DJ session with AMPLIFIED in full force setting the turn tables ablaze.

* Fashion Show featuring Limited Edition Zebra and a debut show by Irie for Men.

* A delectable Grey Goose Bar ALL NIGHT LONG - free cocktails and more!

* Photography exhibition + 24 hour Zebra boutique

* Fabulous raffle prize give-aways, wholesome canapes and a wonderful chance to network socially

* The unofficial opening of The Life House

ALL THIS AND MORE FOR CHARITY and ALL FOR ONLY N12,000!!!

VENUE:

The Life House,

33, Sinari Daranijo Street, off Younis Bashorun Street,

off Ajose Adeogun Street, Victoria Island. Map

By Invitation Only and invitation admits. Tickets are LIMITED as usual and will NOT be available for sale at the gate, so please buy them now to avoid disappointment.

FYI the raffle just got sexier as a ticket to Paris, London or Morocco just got thrown in.

We are here to help and happy to deliver tickets to your homes and/or offices! Just call!

Please call any of the members of the Zebra Garden Party Team to buy your tickets TODAY or for general information. Call Lisa on 07034124503 or Uche on 07025991520 for tickets and inquiries.

At Zebra Living we are dedicated to our vision of supporting various charitable initiatives through fashion, music and art and we hope you support us as we do our little bit for community and fulfil our corporate and social responsibilities.

A Table For Two (What Is Love All About?)

2009-12-08T13:07:00.002Z

More info soon.....

SaversQ Discount Card Launches This Sunday

2009-12-03T15:45:00.003Z

SaversQ is a lifestyle discount card which entitles its subscribers to discounts from hundreds of stores and businesses around the country. SaversQ has partnered with branded businesses ranging from Automobile, Dining, Entertainment, Retail, Services and Travel.

The card will offer global exclusive discounts and will be launching this Sunday in Lagos:

Date: December 6th, 2009
Venue: Mega Plaza Roof Top, 11 Idowu Martins str. VI
Time: 4pm

This is an exclusive event and guests can stop by to purchase SaversQ cards and network with the elite of Lagos.

Visit www.saversq.com

Google Map It: Here

Visions Vintage Lagos: Manhattan meets Soho (NYC) meets Las Gidi!!

2009-12-02T09:34:00.000Z

Christmas in Naija is one of the hottest and sunniest periods of the year and you really shouldn't go anywhere without your sunglasses....... but why go conventional when you can go VINTAGE?

Visions Vintage is offering a LIMITED stock of branded, individually crafted and customised Vintage Sunglasses. All available at rockbottom prices from N5,000 to N15,000.As a plus there will be a 5% exclusive promotion of preselected inhouse Vintage Sunglasses from high end designers stocked- Chloe, Emilio Pucci,Oliver Peoples and Tom Ford.

They will be at the Palms all day this Sunday (6th December). First Dibs so come early!

Visions Vintage: Fashionably Vintage, quintessentially quirky, urban renewal chic @ Visions, The Palms, 1 BIS Way (shop adjacent to Shoprite).

Google Map It: Here

FUSION: Fashion Comes to Abuja this December

2009-11-25T23:31:00.000Z

FUSION is a one day fashion and beauty exhibtion in the Asokoro district of Abuja featuring outfits by top designers - D'zyN couture, Peridot and Ruby, MyQ, Tai, Reedas, Jezreel designs and many more.

There will be a wide range of designs and categories to choose from as well as beauty products on sale.

Also being showcased are:

Make up by BM Pro
Bath and body supplies, Lingerie, Fabric, Scarves, Contemporary Jewelry, Hair accessories, Shoes and bags
Kids fashion
Mens fashion (so please invite all men)

There will be yummy cakes by CAKE SWIRL, scrumptious crepes, waffles, shakes and smoothies by SUHJUICED!

10% of all profit goes to the AID NIGERIA charity to support indigent people in areas of health, education and provision of clean, safe water.

Date: Saturday 5th December, 2009

Address: 3, Gamal Abdel Nasser str, off Julius Nyerere str, off Yakubu Gowon str, Asokoro, Abuja

Google Map It: LINK

Time: 12:00pm - 6:00pm

This is one event not to be missed!! See you on the 5th of December and first dibs so come early and do not forget your cheque books!!!

From One of Our Partners: The Beat Jam

2009-11-24T23:43:00.005Z

The BEAT JAM is happening at Bacchus this Friday 27^th November.

It is a chance to mingle with the beat presenters and also various artists such as Banky W MI, Eldee the Don, Sasha, General Pype, Dj Zeez, Da Grin, Sauce Kid, Bracket etc…..

Tickets are N2500 and N5000 for VIP entry

For more info, visit www.thebeat99.com or listen to The Beat 99 FM - The Heartbeat of Lagos

Intuition by LAMI: The Official Album Launch

2009-11-24T21:29:00.006Z

Well if you've never heard of LAMI, you're on a seriously long thing. If you've never heard of LAMI, you have now......

Lobster in Cream.. Presenting

'INTUITION by 'LAMI' Album Launch Party

Friday 27th Nov 2009.
Time: 10pm till late...
Venue: ORIENTAL HOTEL,
LEKKI Tickets: N5,000

Appearances by MI, KEL , MOHITS Crew, Banky W,Sound Sultan, Ice Prince,Jessy Jags, Timi Dakolo, Oreka & Toolz, DJ Snoop.........and many other surprise comedians!

RedCarpet,Press,..Lights ..Camera..Action!
Don't miss it....! (Limited tkts available for sale @ Images & Print.Silvirbird Galleria from
today)
RSVP: 07032021413

EXCLUSIVE: The Penthouse Re-opens with a VVIP lounge

2009-11-24T20:17:00.009Z

The Q lounge is Penthouse's latest VIP lounge has been created for clients who want that special V.V.I.P experience. Tagged 'The Jewel In our Crown', it goes without saying that this lounge has a world-class V.I.P setting for the contemporary, classy and private party-goer.

Situated high above the Victoria Island skyline, this is one spot where the creme de la creme are set to mingle. .

Come and join us for a 'Sound Check' on Friday the 27th of November 2009
62 Adetokunbo Ademola Street, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Doors open from 10pm
Table bookings for penthouse and 'Q Lounge' please call Nikki on 07038774934.

*Minimum spend charges apply for Q Lounge

Project Desiree fundraiser with Lami & M.I. THIS SUNDAY

2009-11-09T23:49:00.006Z

Welcome to the The Young Professionals Impact (YPI) Foundation which is a registered charity organization.

It plans to hold its 2nd Edition of its Project Desiree- an Educational Fund initiated to sponsor 3 selected children from an orphanage up to the Senior Secondary School Level. This was instituted last year in memory of Tena.

This year, YPI aims to raise more funds in order to place 2 more children on the Fund Schorlarship and also help the Red Cross Orphanage (YABA) furnish their new school.

The program comes up on Sunday November 15th, 2009, at the delectable Reeds on Awolowo Road, launching with music by our favourite artists M.I. & Lami There will also be comedy by Omo Baba on the night and Fashion on display (B Jewelled Accessories, Tai Closet and NS1463 Clothing). Tables are also available.

To be a part of this or for table bookings please click here for more info.

Date: Sunday, 15th November 2009
Time: 3pm
Venue: Reeds Restaurant, 190 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi

For more information on YPI, visit http://www.ypinigeria.com

Eko Creek Market!

2009-11-05T21:40:00.007Z

Eko Creek Market, Sundays @ Ember

Typically, in Lagos, Sundays are reserved for church and family outings, social gatherings, and the like. Nowadays, there always seems to be one fashion show/sample sale or the other for the ladies. Undoubtedly, Sundays in Lagos have become conventional.

This is about to change! Ember Creek, the new seaside, open-air lounge will host a new Sunday gig twice a month...............The Eko Creek market.

It is targeted at art and fashion lovers and will have unique items for sale from a variety of stalls including Bejewelled, Ashabi, Sally & Dorothy and many more!

This excellent location is set to attract a mix of male and females who are hungry for some Sunday Culture and are looking to shop at affordable prices!

Start Date: Sunday 8th November, 2009
Venue: Ember Creek, 32 Awolowo Road, South West Ikoyi, Lagos.
(In-between dhl and boat Club)
Time: 12 noon til 6pm

Interested vendors please email me for further info (there is also a free buffet lunch for all vendors!)

See you on Sunday!

October!

2009-10-12T23:04:00.005Z

Watch this space for more events this October. Last week we put our arty and cultural caps on as we attended the following events:

1) Nneka on The Green - courtesy www.quirktheworld.com

2) Against All Odds - Exhibition (drawings by Ibe Ananaba) @ The Goethe Institute

3) Terra Kulture Craft Fair

Art Competition - Entry Closes October
23rd!!!!!

IO - MADE IN NIGERIA WITH PASSION

2009-09-17T15:54:00.011Z

Made in Nigeria with Passion
September 15, 2009

Interior Options Furniture Hosts Annual Open Day

Interior Options Furniture – the preferred and leading Nigerian furniture manufacturing and interior design consultancy company-- is hosting its annual open day on Saturday the 3rd of October 2009 which will take place at its showroom (click on link to see pictures), IO World, 6/8 Industrial Street off Town Planning Way Ilupeju.

This year's open day themed “Celebrate your space,” will showcase IO's wide range of innovative furniture, particularly its functional and contemporary range of made in Nigeria furniture. The company will open its doors to invited guests, clients and individuals, offering them the singular opportunity to participate in the “IO World” experience and in this way, redefine conventional perceptions of furniture and space planning. The special guest of honour for the day is His Excellency, The Consulate General Sig. Antonio Giandomenico.

IO Furniture's reputation for creativity, innovation, design and quality has firmly established it as one of the top 5 furniture and Interior Design companies in Nigeria with over 20 years of experience outfitting homes, offices, hotels, airports lounges, restaurants, apartment buildings, showrooms and boutiques, IO has proven its mettle, versatility and variety of products and services.

“We pride ourselves on having something for everyone. Our goal is to inspire our clients' emotional well-being and provide a productive ambience that reinforces their image through their choice of furniture and interior design,” says Mrs. Muni Shonibare, IO MD and founding President of internationally affiliated Interior's Designer's Association of Nigeria (IDAN).

Originally a design consultancy providing interior design service to mostly Nigerian oil companies, IO has since expanded its business to include furniture manufacturing. Executive Director Ms. Funmi Shobo notes that “Manufacturing is a core aspect of our business. Our clients can rely on the quality of our products to elevate the quality of their spaces.” IO furniture is designed and manufactured using cutting edge technology and only the best-grade materials at the company's world-class manufacturing facility in Lagos.

Made in Nigeria with Passion, IO Furniture continues to make important contributions to the development and appreciation of furniture manufacturing & interior design in Nigeria, and in so doing socio-economic growth of the country.

We're In August!

2009-08-13T07:09:00.005Z

Look what we have for you this month:

1) Speechless (22nd August)

Venue: Beckton, London

Click here for more info

2) Zebra Trunk Show MEGA SALE (16th August)

Venue: Piccolo Mondo, Lagos

Click here for more info

Website: http://www.zebraliving.com/

3) Circa 64 Jewellery Workshop (15th - 19th August)

Venue: Circa 64, 5 Sanusi Fafunwa Street. VI

Click here for more info

Website: www.circa64online.com/workshops.html

4) Theatre @ Terra (Every Sunday in August)

Venue: Terra Kulture

Click here for more info

Website: http://www.nigerian-theatre.com/

5) Face of Sleek Nigeria (Entries from August)

The winner will be the brand ambassador and face of sleek Nigeria for one year. This will include an international modeling contract worth $15,000 and she also gets a brand new car. The first and second runners up will win $10,000 and $5,000 respectively. Other contestants stand a chance of being scouted and signed up by Sleek Models and other international modeling agencies that will be partnering with us for this project, as well as the opportunity to take part in a reality tv show.

Click here for more info

Website: http://www.sleeknigeria.com/

6) Elite Model Look 2009 (Auditions Begin in August)

Click here for more info

Website: http://www.elitemodellooknigeria.com/

7) Harambe 2.o (28th August)

Venue: Shell Hall, Muson Centre

The first 20 young persons with bright agricultural ideas who send application to hharambenigeria@yahoo.com, will get a chance to exhibit their plans and speak to stakeholders in the industry at the Garden of opportunities for possible investment.

Click here for more info

Website: http://www.hendeavor.org/

8) D'banj's Kokoconcert (31st August)

Venue: IndigO2, Greenwich

Click here for more info

Website: http://www.cokobarlondon.com/

9) Free Summer Camp for 10-19 year olds resident in Nigeria. (22nd - 31st August)

Click here for more info

Website: http://www.frontlineyouth.org/

10) Fate Foundation Fate Model Entrepreneur 2009 (closes 14th August)

(From our partners at the Fate Foundation)

From July 27, 2009, FATE Foundation will embark on a search for the 2009 FATE Model Entrepreneur of the Year as part of its 9th Annual Celebration Award Ceremony. FATE Foundation is calling on all Nigerians across the country to vote for an exemplary Nigerian Entrepreneur who has demonstrated innovation and creativity in his/her business; strong ethics and personal integrity; and inspired people with his/her leadership and achievements. In 2001, FATE Foundation instituted the FATE Model Entrepreneur Award to recognise and honour outstanding entrepreneurs who are leading and building dynamic and growing businesses that have affected people’s lives and served society. Entrepreneurs are the driving force of any economy, and according to the Head of Brand Management and Communications, Sterling Bank, Mrs. Abimbola Sowemino, “Entrepreneurs are men and women imbued with rare abilities to turn ideas into businesses. They are the sources of innovation, providing the market with new and improved products and services . . .”

The objective of the award is to honour Nigerian entrepreneurs across the country and the winner will be revealed at the FATE Annual Award Ceremony on Thursday, December 3rd, 2009 at the MUSON Centre, Onikan, Lagos Island, Lagos. The past winners of this prestigious award include Mrs. Nike Ogunlesi of Ruff & Tumble; Mrs. Ibukun Awosika of Sokao Chair Centre; Mr. John Momoh of Channels TV; and Mr. Godwin Ehigiamusoe of LAPO (Lift Above Poverty Organisation).Nominations can be sent from either individuals or teams regardless of location or grade.

The closing date for submissions is Friday 14th August, 2009 and we encourage people to get nominations in as early as possible.For more information, call Wale 08075929014, or email info@fatefoundation.com.

First Fridays August

2009-08-07T14:22:00.004Z

Join First Fridays at their AUGUST NETWORKING EVENT

Date: Friday August 7th, 2009

Time: 6 - 10pm

Venue: RED LOUNGE, 2 Saka Jojo Str, Off Idejo StrOff Adeola Odeku Str, VI

Keynote Speaker: Ms. Ngozi Edozien Head, Actis West Africa

Dress Code: Business casual (no jeans or tee shirts)

Admission: N1k

Basketmouth @ O2

2009-07-09T08:15:00.000Z

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie: The Thing Around Your Neck

2009-07-08T11:11:00.000Z

FARAFINA BOOKS & SILVERBIRD LIFESTYLE STORE PRESENT “THE THING AROUND YOUR NECK”

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie will be in Nigeria in July to promote her new book,The Thing Around Your Neck. Published locally by Farafina Books, The Thing Around Your Neck is a collection of short stories exploring the ties that bind men and women, parents and children, Africa and the United States. Searing and profound, suffused with beauty, sorrow, and longing, these stories map, with Adichie’s signature wisdom, the collision of cultures and the deeply human struggle to reconcile them.Award-winning author ofPurple Hibiscus and Half of a Yellow Sun, Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie has been described as “the 21st century daughter of Chinua Achebe.” Her much-anticipated public presentation ofThe Thing Around Your Neck will hold on

SATURDAY JULY 11TH AT 3PM, at:
THE SILVERBIRD LIFESTYLE STORE,
SILVERBIRD GALLERIA,
AHMADU BELLO WAY,
VICTORIA ISLAND, LAGOS

About The Thing Around Your Neck

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie burst onto the literary scene with her remarkable debut novel,Purple Hibiscus, which critics hailed as “one of the best novels to come out of Africa in years” (BaltimoreSun), with “prose as lush as the Nigerian landscape that it powerfully evokes” (The Boston Globe);The Washington Post called her “the twenty-first-century daughter of Chinua Achebe.” Her award-winningHalf of a Yellow Sun became an instant classic upon its publication three years later, once again putting her tremendous gifts—graceful storytelling, knowing compassion, and fierce insight into her characters’ hearts—on display. Now, in her most intimate and seamlessly crafted work to date, Adichie turns her penetrating eye on not only Nigeria but America, in twelve dazzling stories that explore the ties that bind men and women, parents and children, Africa and the United States.In “A Private Experience,” a medical student hides from a violent riot with a poor Muslim woman whose dignity and faith force her to confront the realities and fears she’s been pushing away. In “Tomorrow is Too Far,” a woman unlocks the devastating secret that surrounds her brother’s death. The young mother at the center of “Imitation” finds her comfortable life in Philadelphia threatened when she learns that her husband has moved his mistress into their Lagos home. And the title story depicts the choking loneliness of a Nigerian girl who moves to an America that turns out to be nothing like the country she expected; though falling in love brings her desires nearly within reach, a death in her homeland forces her to reexamine them.Searing and profound, suffused with beauty, sorrow, and longing, these stories map, with Adichie’s signature emotional wisdom, the collision of two cultures and the deeply human struggle to reconcile them.The Thing Around Your Neck is a resounding confirmation of the prodigious literary powers of one of our most essential writers.

About the Author

Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie grew up in Nigeria. Her work has been translated into thirty languages and has appeared in various publications, includingThe O. Henry Prize Stories, 2003; The New Yorker; Granta; the Financial Times;and Zoetrope. Her most recent novel, Half of a Yellow Sun, won the Orange Broadband Prize and was a finalist for the National Book Critics Circle Award; it was aNew York Times Notable Book and a People and Black Issues Book ReviewBest Book of the Year. Her first novel, Purple Hibiscus, won the Commonwealth Writers’ Prize and the Hurston/Wright Legacy Award. A recipient of a 2008 MacArthur Foundation Fellowship, she divides her time between the United States and Nigeria.

What's On: Michael Jackson Memorial

2009-07-07T13:03:00.000Z

Remembering the King of Pop - Tuesday 07/07/09

A sad day for the world yesterday as over 1billion people viewed the Michael Jackson Memorial Ceremony.

It was disheartening to see a legend celebrated so much in death as opposed to when he was alive but at the same time, it was pleasant and endearing to know he was appreciated and remembered.

Friends, family, and fans gathered yesterday at the Staples Center in Los Angeles to pay tribute our King of Pop.

Visit Funeral Website and coverage of the service.

See some of the memorial in pictures below:

Overview: Koko Mansion

2009-07-05T20:24:00.000Z

It started airing on Sunday the 28th of June on HiTV (channel 31) and Sky (in the UK - channel 204). More info about the Mansion on Linda Ikeji's blog

It also shows on Silverbird TV (DSTV channel 131) in Nigeria. I have not got the schedule for this yet but check out the interactive Koko Mansion Website by clicking on the picture below:

There is an interesting mix of ladies in the house.

No controversies yet though! Hmm let's wait and see.

You can watch Koko Mansion online FREE (weekends only) on - this HiTV page

How to Tie a Gele on Youtube

2009-06-26T17:28:00.001Z

For the ladies who struggle with tying your head-ties for your Owambes aka parties, here is a useful video on Gele Tying.

What Else is On?

2009-06-24T16:05:00.018Z

R.I.P Michael Jackson - a true legend. What is happening to the music industry? :(

Like a friend said --

Who else could have sold over 700m copies (total album/singles sales)?
Who else could have their album spend over 80 weeks in theUS Top 10?
Who else could sell 500,000 concert seats in just 4 hrs?
Who else could have an album sell 5million copies & be said to have flopped?

"Micheal, last nite felt like 9/11 Why? Because the whole world collectively mourned again. WE LOVE YOU" --

I guess Michael' Jackson's time had come to achieve his purpose and live for 50 years. Read more about the death of Michael Jackson here and his bio here R.I.P

MADE presents Charity Event - Celebrities on the Runway (26th June)

A night of celebrities, fashion and music courtesy Made Magazine.

A host of Nollywoood celebrities will be modelling styles from popular designers. They include Genevieve Nnaji, Stephanie Okereke, musical artists D'Banj, Banky W, MI, Shank, Tosin Martins, GT and many more.

Outfits modelled will be from Nigerian designers Dakova, Jewel By Lisa, MAI, Exclamations, Zebra , House of Divasand Phunk Afrique.

Regular Tickets are available at Chicken Republic outlets (VI, Ikoyi, Lekki) from Sunday 21st June 2009

VIP table seats N30,000 - For VIP table seats please Call 08033029708
Front row seats N15,000
Regular seats N5,000

The aim of this event is to identify with the less privileged and proceeds will go to Bethseda Homes

D'Banj's Unusual 29th Birthday Celebration.

The Koko Master took a philanthropic turn on his birthday which was on the 9th of June, visiting a children's hopsice and donating food items, toys and a lump sum of money. He also gave out scholarship grants to three top students at Dowen College. D'Banj, whose original name isDapo Oyebanjo also stunned the students at Dowen College with a five star performance! His birthday ended at Koko Lounge, top hot spot in Lagos. Happy Birthday D'banj.

Watch out for the first Koko Mansion showing on June 28th at 3pm! Exclusive to HiTV

Goldman Sachs Women's Enterprise & Leadership (WEL) Program

Zain Africa Challenge

The Zain Africa Challenge is a fast-paced question and answer programme featuring outstanding students from across continental Africa. For Season 3, thirty-two universities from eight countries will compete for the prestigious Zain Trophy and prizes for their universities and themselves.

Zain grants to the universities and participants from the National Qualifying Tournaments through the International Championship total nearly $1,000,000 USD. Grants include cash sums, educational materials and travel.

Broadcasting Schedule for the Zain Africa Challenge for Ghana, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Sierra Leone, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia

In Nigeria, during the program, watch out for the viewer questions and send your answer to 33996 for NTA and 33971 for AIT to stand a chance to win Zain USB Data Cards with N1000 worth of internet usage, ipods and N3,000 free airtime.

The more entries you submit the more your chances of winning! Visit http://www.zainafricachallenge.com/

Nigeria's Next Super Model

The First Screening for the 3rd Edition of NNSM with 30 hot models picked for the first round. There will be a further eviction exercise in August where all 30 girls would be camped and engaged in different types of activities. They will be further shortlisted to 16 girls who will then go into the grand finale in October at Tinapa in Calabar.

More info at http://nigeriasnextsupermodel.com/about.html

Kel's Long Awaited Debut

Up and Coming Female Rapper Kel has completed her long overdue album and as I mentioned last week she launched it on Friday June 19th, 2009.

The album features contributions from Shank, Dare, M.I., Jesse Jags, Ill Bliss and several others. It hit stores on the 22nd of June and contains 19 tracks. According to Kel, it is a reflection of passion and sacrifice.

Check out a video of one of her songs here
http://www.notjustok.com/2009/06/21/video-kel-ft-alaye-may-d-too-fine/

Charles Novia's Unusual Reality Show

Famous Nollywood Writer and Producer, Charles Novia returns to the centre stage with a new reality show that will have 25 winners. It is tagged, Charles Novia Screen Test and is aimed at discovering star actors and actresses and giving them fantastic opportunities. Charles is the man behind The Bridesmaid, Caught In The Middle, Real Love, When Love Dies and many others.

Forms for the reality show are on sale at all Zenith Bank brances across the country for N5000. The stamped teller must be presented on the day of audition at the National Theatre, Iganmu, Lagos. The audtion process will last three days.

Le Petit Marche - click here for more details and check out the June Sale info on Facebook!

Malta Guinness Street Dance Africa - Lagos Finals 09

A competition where street dance groups are selected and shortlisted to the finals (in a few words than one) across the country. The Finals will be held at

Venue: The Aquatic Hotel, Toyin Street, Ikeja, Lagos

Date: Sunday, June 28th 2009

Time: 4pm

Visit: www.mgstreetdanceafrica.com/

Other Events Coming Up.........

ReBirth Collection Launch 2009
D'banjs "KokoConcert"
BasketMouth LIVE!! O2 ARENA LONDON FRI 10 JULY!! HILARIOUS!! WILD & RAW!!!
Le Petit Marche- ABUJA
NNENNA OKORE - “OF EARTH... BARKS AND TOPOGRAPHY”
Banky W
Le Petit Marche in Abuja
Careers in Africa
Hunch
Celeb News - Johnny Depp and R. Kelly

Hmmmmmmmmm Watch This Space........

What's On: Nnenna Okore and so on.....

2009-06-19T13:32:00.015Z

Arts, Culture and Entertainment

Nnenna Okore Exhibition at Goethe Institut

Nnenna Okore, the talented and internationally acclaimed sculptor and installation artist, returns to Nigeria to hold her first major art exhibition beginning June 20th, 4pm, at the Goethe Institut in Lagos.

Nnenna often uses materials found in urban environments. Her artworks reflect the way that natural and man-made materials evolve, decay and transform, while other pieces can take on the character and flowing shape of traditional woven cloths or elements of nature. She has received several awards and residencies worldwide, and has been exhibited in several prestigious galleries and museums including the Museum of Art and Design, New York and the October Gallery, London.

The German Cultural center, the Goethe Institut are her hosts for this show presented by Kachifo Limited, publishers of Farafina Books. The show runs at the Goethe Institut from June 20th until July 10th. Learn more about this artist by logging on to www.nnennaokore.com, or by contacting the organisers at info@kachifo.com.. Venue is the Goethe Institut

Designer Launch Showcase at Temple Muse

Temple Muse is a Luxury Lifestyle Store in Lagos, Nigeria. It prides itself on being ahead of trends and having a multitude of luxury brands.

Tomorrow, it will be hosting a designer showcase with new lines from designers such as Zebra and Jewel by Lisa. Venue - Temple Muse, 8 Sanusi Fafunwa Street, Opp. Toyota Showroom, Victoria Island

Kel's Album Launch

Female rap artist, Kel will be launching her album tonight here in Lagos. Look out for more info on Kel's Album

Theatre @ Terra this Sunday

.....Showing Death and The King's Horseman (Venue - Terra Kulture)

RISE - World International Youth Day 2009

Visit Risenetworks.org

Rise is a network which aims to revitalize values by inculcating positive behaviour in the representatives of the future and also to create a springboard for young, unsung, uncelebrated heroes to explore their talents and express their creative voices. There will be a National Event starting with Lagos on Saturday 20th June 2009 to celebrate the World International Youth Day.

From One of Our Sponsors: Free Makeovers!!

2009-06-13T08:21:00.005Z

If you are in the UK, call Ola now for your free makeover!!

What's On: Storm to Mohits?

2009-06-12T14:46:00.009Z

Strictly Entertainment

Ikechukwu moves to MoHits Records

Stories about famous rapper/singer Ikechukwu leaving record label, Storm Records have been circulating the entertainment industry. It has now been confirmed that he has moved to MoHits Records. It is very surprising as he just released an album under the Storm Record label a couple of weeks ago - Killz zone.

Killz, as he is commonly known, said the decision to leave Storm was mutual and both parties came to a common ground on the decision. Here's wishing Ikechukwu more success in his career from this big move.

R. Kelly to perform at July's ThisDay Music Festival 2009

R. Kelly will be perfoming in Lagos for the ThisDay Concert on the 3rd of July (read more here).

This is very interesting, considering R. Kelly refused to fly by plane since Aaliyah's death. Guess he's overcome that fear. Looking forward Kells!

Salsa Saturdays at Opium

Opium (formerly known as Jazz Sessions) is hosting The Latin Dance Club (TLDC)'s salsa night. This is open to everyone who wants to learn to dance Salsa.

The Venue is Opium, 871 Ozumba Mbadiwe str. Victora Island, Lagos

Date: Saturday, 13th June, 2009. Time - 7pm to 12pm

Try not to miss this steamy salsa experience.

Swe Bar @ 5

There will be a line up of guest artists performing at Swe Bar tonight to celebrate its 5th year anniversary. Starts such as Wande Coal, Banky W., Lami Phillips, El Dee and Jessy Jacks will be part of the line up tomorrow night from 6pm.

Venue: Swe Bar and Lounge, 2nd Floor, City Mall, Onikan Lagos
Date: Saturday, 13th June, 2009
Time: 6pm till late
Dress: Black OR White

Happy 5th Birthday Swe!!

Nigeria Heritage Concert

A concert hosting a line up of underground artists TONIGHT! At Oniru Private Beach. Featuring the likes of Terry G, Sound Sultan, Igho and Danagaog.

More information here

GATE FEE: N1500

Banky W out and about

Apart from performing at Swe tomorrow, Banky will also be hosting a launch party at Bacchus later on at night, tomorrow. This is all in a bid to launch his new album. He is launching two singles tonight - Strong Thing and Lagos Party. His Official launch party took place last Saturday at Caliente and was said to be a blast.

If you're a fan of Banky W's don't miss this Naija for Life artist tonight alongside Omawumi, El Dee and Shank!!

Fashion Auction House hosts CHICONOMICS

Date: Sunday 14th June 2009
Time: 3pm to 6pm (live auction begins at 4.30pm)
Venue: Saipan now Buddha Bar, 7 Bishop Aboyade Cole, Victoria Island

In February, the Fashion Auction House was launched at ‘Mint Condition - Saipan’ with a debut collection of 150 luxury and vintage items for auction. This time around, at ‘Chiconomics’, a free, cocktail-assisted, invaluable lesson in the art of shopping with the brain and budget of an economist will be offered.

40 of the edgiest, chic-est designer handbags and shoes will be up for offer at wallet-friendly prices. Please visit www.fashionauctionhouse.com to see the catalogue which consists of - Chloe, Stella McCartney, Marni, Mulberry, Louis Vuitton, Prada, Bottega… The list goes on. *The live auction will begin at 4.30pm prompt. Pre-bids can be submitted from 3pm on the day.*

Naija To The Core is now 'Nigeria: What's On?!'

2009-06-05T18:56:00.017Z

What's on in June!

Entertainment

The Koko Lounge Launch

The new Koko Lounge, commonly known as KL started up by D'banj, Cecil Hammond and Baba Ikazoboh at the Silbervird Cinemas and Mall, Yaba launches tonight. The new lounge is something to check out but I presume it's targeted at the kokolettes!

Koko Mansion

Koko Mansion is a reality TV show Exclusively aired on HiTV from the 1st of June. It comprises of12 girls who will reside in a state-of –the-art mansion in Lagos City, while living lavishly as any Kokolette should.

During these weeks, the young women will be groomed and tested in various Diva tasks and activities in order to determine the one with the greatest Koko Virtues. Don’t get it twisted! A Kokolette is a “Fully endowed woman with intellectual property” likened to the “Betty Irabors” and “Nike Oshinowos” of today. ~ hmmmmmm ~

The show will exclusively portray the true lifestyle of the principal character – D’Banj as a celebrity with a lot of razzmatazz. The Kokolette who emerges as the winner will win:

• A Chris Aire Diamond ring

• A brand new convertible car
• N5million

Most importantly, the winner will be D’Banjs Kokolette for one full year and will be his companion at public events both within and outside Nigeria.

Visit the Koko mansion website @ http://www.kokomansion.tv

The GLO Lafftafest

The GLO Lafftafest is an entertainment and relaxation platform for Glo customers to ease off the stress of work and city life. It is a form of rewarding Glo's loyal customers and features acts such as Baketmouth, I Go Die, Klint Da Drunk, P Square, Durella, etc. It is a monthly event showcasing comedy, music and drama for Glo customers. This month's Lafftafest will be happening on Sunday the 7th of June at the Event Place, Planet 1, Maryland, Ikeja, Lagos.

Entry criteria

Use a minimum of N2500 airtime in the last 30 days to qualify for a raffle draw.

Winners in the draw will receive an sms from Glo informing them once they have used the minimum airtime to qualify.

The winners will be asked to send ''GLO LAFFTA FEST'' followed by the customers phone make and model (e.g. Nokia E71) as a text message to 35001

Each text message costs N100

Customers are sent text messages once they have exceeded N2500 airtime usage and asked to respond to the text if they wish to enter for the raffle draw. Once the winners are selected, another text* is sent to the winners with the venue of the show, the entry code and the time the show would commence. *winners are advised not to delete the text message sent to their phones, containing their entry code.

The experience is always thrilling! Read about last month's Glo Laffta Fest here

Arts & Culture

Theatre @ Terra

Presents:

The 3rd Annual Season of Wole Soyinka

Every Sunday in June!

Featuring-

The Lion and The Jewel- June 7 & June 14

Death and The King's Horsemen- June 21 & June 28

Produced by Wole Oguntokun, every Sunday in June at Terra Kulture, Tiamiyu Savage St, Victoria Island, Lagos.

Time- 3pm & 6pm

Tickets- N2000

ISOKAN - Togetherness

An exhibition of paintings, & sculptures.

By Iponri Studios

GRAND OPENING: 6^th of June, 2009 at 4pm prompt

Exhibition continues until Thursday 11^th of June 2009

VENUE: TERRA KULTURE

PLOT 1376 TIAMIYU SAVAGE STREET , OFF AHMADU BELLO WAY

VICTORIA ISLAND , LAGOS

Specialist

'Girl Talk'

Let's Talk again
On: 6th June
At: 10b Ikoya Avenue off Queens Drive off Macpherson, Ikoyi
At: 2pm

The girls are going to have a great time! Come prepared!

STAY TUNED!

2009-06-05T13:51:00.005Z

It has been a long long time since I last updated. I presume I was burnt out by trying to blog with Nigerian Internet bandwidth, work balance, settling back in Nigeria, not having a keen interest for Nigerian news now that it is all around me, not really sure what it is ,but overall I think the blogging thing was for a season and it would be inadequate to just remain stagnant without trying to aim for the skies in whatever you do. So, as much as I enjoy sharing information, I have been looking for ways to take the whole thing to the NEXT LEVEL and all I can say is......STAY TUNED!

There will no longer be blog entries but instead, this will be more like a What's On page, until I identify what exactly I want to do with this (other things in the pipeline). So to all the people who kept asking when I would update again or whatever happened to my blog! It's still here!

Welcome to - Nigeria: What's On?!

:o)

What's On This Week?

2009-02-25T10:21:00.011Z

Sefi Atta Book Reading

Sefi Atta, renowned Nigerian author of Everything Good Will Come, will be in town to promote her two latest releases, Lawless & Other Stories and Swallow. There will also be readings by Toni Kan Onwordi, author of Night of the Creaking Bed and Karen King-Aribisala, author of Our Wife and Other Stories. It promises to be a fulfilling evening for everyone...

Date:	Wednesday, February 25, 2009
Time:	5:00pm - 7:00pm
Location:	British Council, Thompson Avenue, Ikoyi

Le Petit Marche

A piece of Portobello in Lagos...

For those who enjoy a stroll down the busy Portobello road, the energy and noise from customers haggling in the market stalls and the aroma of hot dogs and corn-on-a cob and shopping for less...you would love Le petit Marche. This is a new age market with goods varying from vintage clothing and Bric à Brac, to Art, retail clothing and greeting cards. The market will be open every last Saturday of the month starting on the 28th of February 2009 at The Jazz Sessions, from 9am till 6pm

The Line includes goods from:

O by Obsidian
CaxtonAlile Cards
Buki De La Zaria bags and leather goods
Rukky Frocks
Trak apparel by Bisola Kamson
Vintage clothing and accessories by The Lagos Look
Art by Ivie’s
Retail clothing, cocktails dresses, accessories etc.

	Email: wonuolaodunsi@gmail.com
	Location: Jazz Essions, Ozumba Mbadiwe Str. V/I Date: Saturday 28th February, 2009 Time: 9am - 6pm

Boutik Yurok!

One day boutique, women's and men's fashion, featuring hip and trendy collections from some of Africa's hottest young designers; Lanre DaSilva Ajayi (LDA), Jewel by Lisa (JBL), Okunoren Twins Bespoke, Oheneba (Accra) and others.
Casual wear- shirts, jackets, hot summer dresses, cool tops & fun tees, the latest jeans and unique accessories.

Date: Sunday, 1st March 2009
Time: 12pm - 6pm
Location: Terra Kulture

Friday Nite Laff

Date:	Friday, February 27, 2009
Time:	6:00pm - 10:00pm
Location:	Magnolia Hall, City Mall Onikan Lagos

Media forum on Youth, leadership, patriotism and National Development

This media forum will address the call made by former UN Secretary General Mr. Kofi Anan at an awards ceremony in Nigeria, that young people need to be given opportunities to take leadership positions. It will also address sundry issues relating to the barriers to youth leadership.

Venue: Abuja, Nigeria

Date:	Thursday, February 26, 2009
Time:	10:00am - 2:00pm

Can A Book Change A Life?

Is there a book inside you? Can a book change a life is in conjuction with the Federal Ministry of Education

Date: Friday 27 Feb - Saturday 28 Feb
Location: Terra Kulture

Poetry Potter

Date:	Saturday, February 28, 2009
Time:	2:00am - 7:00am
Location:	ROTUNDA HALL, NATIONAL LIBRARY, YABA

Eden

Eden classes are a refresher course and soft introduction into uncovering the secrets of looking and feeling beautiful. The classes are short no more than 3 hours and will focus on key aspects of looking and feeling beautiful.

The first class will take place on the February 28th and will commence with the Make up Refresher course. The cost of attending the classes is N5, 000

The instructors are professionals as well as individuals who have been identified as possessing an unusual knack regarding their subject matter. So please indicate interest by sending an email to edenclasses@gmail.com.

Date:	Saturday, February 28, 2009
Time:	10:00am - 1:00pm
Location:	Victoria Island


Phone:	08022220065
Email:	edenclasses@gmail.com

VideoBytes

2009-02-24T10:14:00.000Z

Two great videos for you

1) Agolo by Angelique Kidjo (Flashback)

2) Beyonce Academy Awards 2009 Performance

What Was On?

2009-02-23T21:56:00.000Z

Hi guys....Last Weekend was hectic! Here is a run down of the goings on:

Vlisco Urban Beat Fashion Event

Location: Expo Centre, Eko Hotel

Genre: Fashion

Girl Talk

Location: Terra Kulture

Genres: Women, Relationships, Christianity

Ikechukwu's Album Launch (Killz Zone)

Location: Volar, Jade Palace

Genres: Hip Hop, Album Launch

Change-A-Life

Location: Federal Palace Hotel

Genres: Charity, Fundraiser, Television

A Table For Two

Location: Calvary House Church, Dover Hotel, Lekki

Genres: Relationships, Christianity, Mixer, Food and Drink

Bake House Bakery

Location: Ikota Shopping Complex, VGC

Genres: Food and Drink, Social

Sizwe Banzi is Dead

Location: Terra Kultre

Genres: Theatre, Arts

Tocatina and Kaftans

Location: Bambuddha

Genres: Fashion, Lifestyle, Music

Book Club Meeting

Location: Posh Cafe

Genres: Literature, Social

Fantastic February!

2009-02-09T12:52:00.006Z

The year is flying by (literally) with all sorts of mixed news. I have to say the first headline will be Chris Brown's arrest/charge for allegedly beating up a female.

WHAT? He's only 19

Culled from concrete loop:

"The singer voluntarily turned himself in to be questioned and according to TMZ, he was arrested and charged with one count felony criminal threats. His bail was set at $50,000, which he paid and was subsequently released.

Officials declined to identify the injured party in the alleged assault, although they eventually did and the victim was Barbados' Robin Fenty and Hollywood's very own pop star, Rihanna! Brown’s court date is scheduled for March 5th.

As stated, Chris Brown and his reported girlfriend Rihanna both cancelled their scheduled Grammy appearances and performances Sunday night (8th February)."

HIS PRESS RELEASE STATEMENT

"Words cannot begin to express how sorry and saddened I am over what transpired. I am seeking the counseling of my pastor, my mother and other loved ones and I am committed, with God’s help, to emerging a better person. Much of what has been speculated or reported on blogs and/or reported in the media is wrong. While I would like to be able to talk about this more, until the legal issues are resolved, this is all I can say except that I have not written any messages or made any posts to Facebook, on blogs or any place else. Those posts or writings under my name are frauds.” [concrete loop]

As reported, Chris was charged with one count felony criminal threats (more charges could be added after the DA is finished reviewing the case) and is expected to attend court on March 5th in Los Angeles. The 19 year-old has hired popular defense attorney, Mark Geragos to represent him.

Anyway, we may as well divert our attention for now until we hear more on the story. Change-A-Life is an initiative started by Funmi Iyanda, created to intervene in the lives of people when they need it the most. The project focuses on people with potential at their lowest point of need. On the 21st of February 2009, the Change-A-Life project will be formally institutionalised as Change-A-Life foundation and will be aired on NTA between 7 and 9pm on that day.

The project, which began in January 2002 has the support of the former governor of Lagos State Asiwaju Bola Ahmed Tinubu. Grants were awarded to close to 70 people for N10,000 each for educational and micro-business projects.

A source says --"Change-A-Life is about people, regardless of gender, ethnicity or religion. It’s about changing the face of humanity one person at a time.”

With the continued assistance of the Lagos State Government, the project has evolved into a family support scheme for exceptional young children from one-parent homes. Over the years, the project has affected 150 children and over 3000 people with its scholarship and health care support services.

In its 6th year, Change-A-Life, formerly an arm of New Dawn with Funmi Iyandai s being launched as a full-fledged organization able to accommodate more deserving youth and families with exceptional potential.

As we all know, sustaining such an organisation is no small feat, especially in capacity and development areas.

In order to expand its scope and accommodate more exceptional youth and their families, Change-A-Life will be formally institutionalized in partnership with the Lagos State Government.

The organisation calls on all Nigerians to support it by volunteering their time, effort and financial contributions. The activities and values of the scheme is traditionally showcased in an annual January 1^st LIVE TV special to begin the year on a note of giving and society building. However, we can still catch the launch on NTA NEWS this Saturday between 7 and 9pm.

Testimonials/Stories

Papa Samuel

Mr. Odoakor or Papa Samuel as he is fondly referred to found himself jilted by his wife and left to care for a two-year old son. Refusing to leave his son in the care of relatives, Papa Samuel decided he would take care of his child himself. Unfortunately his salary as a security guard was not enough to support his family. They soon lost their home and began sleeping on the streets. Samuel began hawking pure water to supplement his father’s tiny income.

Even in the face of these extenuating circumstances, Samuel was able to maintain very good grades at school. His brilliance at school, as well as his father’s determination not to shirk his responsibilities impressed everyone at Change-A-Life. Samuel was consequently put on scholarship, his school fees and needs paid for by the programme. Change-A-Life was also able to take care of their housing expenses. Samuel is writing his WAEC exams. He no longer has to hawk pure water and can now concentrate on schoolwork. Papa Samuel, supported by CAL, is currently enrolled in AA driving school, giving him the foundation he needs to embark on his new career.

Baby Faith’s Story

A Good Samaritan brought in an abandoned baby to the studios of New Dawn with Funmi Iyanda. The old lady found the baby the railway lines in Mushin not far from where she lived. The baby was immediately taken to Strong Tower Mission and shortly after developed all sorts of health complications. A few weeks later, tests confirmed the baby was HIV positive. Workers of CAL and Strong Tower Mission, not knowing whether he would survive, named the baby Faith and was instantly put on antiretroviral drugs.

As compensation for her charitable act, the old lady who brought in Baby Faith was given a place to stay and a grinding pepper mill to enable her fend for herself. What is noteworthy is that the first time she tried to report a missing child to the police, she was locked in jail for two days. Yet when faced with the same situation twice, she did not hesitate to help again.

Please get involved and make a positive impact, no matter how small. Mentorship and internship opportunities are also available in the organisation to provide further support for scholarship beneficiaries

Thanks,

Change-A-Life contact: Eniola Harrison (08057710212)

Funmi Iyanda - fiyanda.blogspot.com

January Post

2009-01-20T23:50:00.011Z

Obama in the New Year!!!

Happy New Year....It's 2009 baby, the year of receiving abundant favour amongst hard times if we stay in God's will.

I'll rush straight through to the highlight of the month. President Obama's inauguration today, 20th January. His Speech was mind blowing and impressive. I am completely in awe of him. Congratulations, more grease to your elbows! We are with you all the way!! For the entire transcription of his speech, check it out here. I would also like to say congratulations to Vice President Joe Bidden and wife. All the best for this term. Now, check out pics of the Celebrities at the inauguration below.

Speilberg! Possibly the most powerful man in Hollywood.

Newlyweds or not quite...Beyonce & Jay-Z

Denzel Washington got there early! I can guess why! Just watch 2 or 3 of his movies.

Aretha Franklin, who sang

The couple with Solange, Beyonce's sister

Magic Johnson and Arnold Schwarzeneger

John Cusack

Michael 'Magic' Johnson

Muhammad Ali

Oprah

Dustin Hoffman

Don King

DIDDY representing

Thanking God for his life and his family.....speaking of family, controversial comments were made (as usual) about Michelle's outfit.

Culling this from another blog - There was nothing traditional, meek or remain-in-the-background about this outfit. She deliberately DID NOT wear a tasteful "First Lady" frock. From the sunny, optimistic color to the choice of a dressy, almost evening look, she's telling us she's independent, proud, self-confident, and young. Like other "young" career women, she doesn't have to wear a mannish suit or even a suit at all, to be taken seriously.

Inauguration Concert

The Lincoln Memorial Inauguration Concert took place yesterday with music, speeches and lots of dancing. A host of celebrities performed and/or were present. Beyonce, Mary J. Blige, Bono, Garth Brooks, Sheryl Crow, Heather Headley, John Legend, Usher Raymond IV, Shakira, Bruce Springsteen, James Taylor, will.i.am, and Stevie Wonder. A few "historical passages" read by celebrity actors a few "historical passages" read by celebrity actors - Jamie Foxx, Martin Luther King III, Queen Latifah and Denzel Washington. Check out pictures below:

Tiger Woods

Shakira, Stevie Wonder, Usher

Bruce Springsteen, Beyonce, will.i.am

Bono

Mary J. Blige

Jamie Foxx

Garth Brooks

Beyonce

Tom Hanks

Denzel Washington

Kids' Inauguration Concert

Finally, the kids Malia and Sasha enjoyed a Kids Inaugural Ball on Monday night. Several kids were privileged to attend this with stars such as Ashton Kutcher, Jamie Foxx, Lucy Liu, Halle Berry, Queen Latifah, Usher amongst many others. The Jonas Brothers and Miley Cyrus also performed. See video here:

So..............when the music fades, what is Nigeria doing in terms of Change We Can Believe in? Or are we back to reality i.e. corruption, greed, self absorbed leaders, hatred, backwardness? Or is our generation going to wake up and not follow suit? Something to ponder.....and not just ponder but to take action against. Night night xxx

Merry Christmas

2008-12-25T19:14:00.007Z

Here's wishing you a very Merry Christmas from Naija to the Core!!

Seeing as there is a time and a season for everything, the time has now come for me to admit that blogging isn't the same as it used to be. As a result, I had thoughts of shutting it down but after a couple of conversations, I have decided to limit this to a monthly, lengthy post.

I look forward to interesting news and updates in 2009....

Hope you have had a lovely year so far and are looking forward to an even better new year.

It's the season to give gifts.......currently, I don't have anything special but speaking of gifts, check out Tyra's unique gift to Beyonce here:

Also, Beyonce premieres her new videos for the second two singles from her albu, I Am… Sasha Fierece. Check out HALO

While some stars are in the studio, some are holiday-ing up in Aspen.....the likes of newlyweds, Mariah and Nick.

My last post will be on or around the 31st....See flyers below for events in Lagos this Christmas. Have fun! Joyeux Noel!!! xx

December: What's Up?

2008-12-01T11:26:00.014Z

Next Top Model™ Comes To West Africa

First there was America's Next Top Model, Tyra Banks’ brainchild, a reality show in which a number of women compete for the title - America's Next Top Model. Soon after, a myriad of other versions followed including Afghanistan's Next Top Model, China's Next Top Model, Britain's Next Top Model, Australia's Next Top Model and Scandinavia's Next Top Model.

The first African Franchise was in Ghana - GNTM and Nigeria followed shortly with spin-off, Nigeria's Next Top Model which aired on HiTV with Olabimitan Adeyinka.

Cycle after cycle, with the Next Top Model brand getting stronger and stronger and more patents being bought, Tope Esan, professional and president of the Nigerian Entertainment Awards (NEA) - http://www.nigeriaentawards.com/ was busy lobbying for the third African Franchise of NTM - West Africa's Next Top Model. He has purchased the rights and hosting the show will be Supermodel and Entrepreneur, Oluchi Onewagba-Orlandi.

Tope Esan, NEA

The show will start airing in January 2009 and will follow the same format as the original American’s Next Top Model. The format will be produced every season by region on the African continent with the initial start up being in West Africa.

Scouting for contestsants will soon commence in the following countries - Cote D'ivoire, Ghana, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Liberia & Nigeria. Like many other revolutions, the era of African Supermodels has evolved. Stay tuned….

Theatre @ Terra

Theatre @ Terra, which is playwright Wole Oguntokun's pet-project, is growing and gaining popularity ever-increasingly. It is an unprecedented project in collaboration with cultural centre, Terra Kulture. Top-rate stage productions are produced weekly, showing twice daily on Sundays every month. The project is playing a major part in the renaissance of Arts & Culture in Nigeria and shows one production per month.

Last month, the famous production - "The lion and the Jewel" by renowned writer, Wole Soyinka was showing.

For more information, visit www.nigerian-theatre.com
Photos: Courtesy Wole Oguntokun

The Experience
Celebrating God and His faithfulness.......live music like never before.

Friday, December 5th at TBS, Onikan Lagos 7pm till 6am!!! Be There!
Visit www.theexperiencelagos.com

Freedom Card, Nigeria

Freedom Gift Card is a customizable preloaded gift plastic card that can be redeemed at any retail outlet where Interswitch debit cards are accepted. It acts as the ideal gift because it gives the recipient the freedom to choose the ideal gift at various discount outlets in Lagos.

Visit www.freedomcardng.com

MAMA: The Mtv Africa Music Awards

2008-11-24T11:55:00.011Z

This is a run down in pictures while Don Chi Chi has provided the hottest coverage of the awards on the Internet. Check out his full diary of the event at ebrief.blogspot.com

Sasha Presenting..

Jozi

Asa

FloRida

Ikechukwu & Naeto C

Dbanj receiving his award...

Jozi

P-Square

Trevor Nelson

Ikechukwu receiving his award...

The Koko Master

Nkechi & JJ Okocha

Seun Kuti

D'banj

Naeto Performing

FloRida

Closing Performance by D'banj & Kelly Rowland

Pictures courtesy of Sola Odeinde.

Don't forget the Run Down of the event and also visit www.bellanaija.com for more pictures! xxx

Single Ladies Parody!!

2008-11-22T00:11:00.009Z

My Goodness! This the funniest thing I've looked at in a long time!! The caption also says: SINGLE LADIES PASSED AWAY THIS MORNING DUE TO COMPLICATIONS STEMMING FROM MAN MEAT AND TUBE SOCKS FALLING OUT OF A LEOTARD.

One word from me - CRIKEY!!!

Single Lady with Bad Credit?

This is for everyone really....Tope has been nice enough to give us some insight. If you happen to have bad credit there is a prepaid master card that offers you the ability to build your credit rating. All you have to do is top it up from time to time and each purchase will be registered with EXPERIAN the credit check company, thus building your points and making you more eligible to borrow in the future. Visit My Cash Plus

Single Ladies Trying To Sell?

For the Entrepreneurs and Saleswomen and men out there with the season to be jolly fast approaching, you can still get customers to BUY during the holiday season..........even with the credit crunch blues. www.entrepreneur.com gives us 5 Good Tips For Ringing Sales in The Holiday Season

Have a Lovely Weekend Girls n' Guys. Mona is Back with a vibe and is very pleased :o)

P.S.

Congratulations Bella Naija has gracefully covered the front of TLWA Magazine. Grab your copy :) :) :)

Events We Missed After Summer

2008-11-16T19:53:00.010Z

What Can I Say? It's Been a Busy Half-Year! Here are some interesting events we missed here at Naija to the Core. Click on the flyers to check out each one's website. Have a good week :)

1) Caxton Alile Cards

2) With Love From Friends (WLFF)

3) Theatre @ Terra - Wole Soyinka

4) Style Me Up Fashion Party 5) The Mrs. Club

6) Eghosa Imasuen - To Saint Patrick 7) The Return of Rhythm of A Black Man

8) Youth on the Frontline Breakthrough Conference with Dayo Israel

9) Nipro Events - The Art of Networking

10) Channel O Music Video Awards

11) Stand Up For Africa

12) Hair Beautiful Lace Front Wig Party @ Eko Hotel

13) The Platform Nigeria - organised by the Covenant Church

14) Naeto-C, Sean Kingston etc. inNigeria

Post Election

2008-11-13T10:12:00.009Z

Random Pics of the Week

The excitement and nostalgia is still in the air with people linking everything to Obama, everyone feeling they can dream, dry jokes and so much more!

But hey, Obama did it! Congrats to him again.

They have been a few peculiar things being said and done pre and post the election.

E.g. Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, Prof. Maurice Iwu criticising the U.S. Voting System - uhm, yea okay *cough* - read here

Also heard something before the election about Sarah Palin not knowing that Africa is a continent! See video here

Michael Crichton, Jurassic park author died on the 4th of November aged 66 years old.

Miriam Makeba, South African Grammy Award winner (singer of Mama Afrika) died shortly after performing on stage. She was performing in Italy at a concert singing her hit 'Pata Pata' and suffered a heart attack afterwards. At hospital, she suffered a second heart attack after drinking some cognac and died on the 9th of November aged 76 years old.

May their souls rest in peace.

Nigerian Prisons in Recruitment Scam?

The Police Zonal Headquarters in Abuja is yet to account for the N4.6 million recovered from a Chief Superintendent of Prisons, Mrs. Mba Josephine Uchenna and six others involved in a recent recruitment scam.

LASTY, GHASTLY!

On the third of november 2008 on Muhri Okunola Street, victoria Island Lagos, the traffic was chaotic. A young lady (Uzoma Okere) driving home from work didn't move her vehicle out of the way of a millitary convoy on time, resulting severe beatings by armed Nigerian Navy men. The convoy consisted of Rear Admiral Harry Arogundade's personal Navy saloon car and his pilot truck, consisting of 6 armed bodyguards. The body guards in the process physically beat up several Price WaterHouse Coopers staff and destroyed cameras that were filming the event as it unfolded. The video clip was recorded from the PricewaterHouseCoopers office on a personal camera.

Watch here