Sunday, March 31, 2013

In Abuja... An Art Exhibition at the Transcorp Hilton


An art exhibition being organised by the Centre for Deaf Right & Empowerment takes place on 3rd to 5th of April 2013 at the Transcorp Hilton. The aim of the exhibition is to raise awareness on the plight of people with hearing disabilities. For more details, please contact Dr. Anne Enyi at 07064491081.

The aim of CDRE is "To help create sustainable development and interventions in opportunities that deaf people can take, thereby enabling deaf people particularly women to become independent, productive and valuable members of society." 

More about CDRE at www.thecdre.org.




Friday, March 29, 2013

In Lagos... Cine Fiesta Enters 2nd Day, Free Admission


Black Heritage Festival is taking place at Freedom Park, near City Hall, Lagos.  Entrance is free!

Easter Weekend at the Transcorp Hilton Abuja


If you re you still thinking about where to spend quality and fun-filled time with the family, try the Transcorp Hilton. Their Easter Package offer is packed full of fun for you and the family! Call +234 94613003 to make a reservation today. From Friday 29th March, it promises to be an 'eggciting' Easter at the Transcorp Hilton!

Thursday, March 28, 2013

Exciting day at the Abuja Literary Society's Monthly BookJam

Left to right: Lady InspiroLogos, Ken Ike, and a cross-section of the audience
during the National Poetry Slam held on 6th July 2012 at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel.
Photos by Inside Track. 

Bookjam holds this Good Friday, March 29, at Lifestyle Bookstore, Silverbird Entertainment Centre. Time: 7pm prompt. ALS features: Lady Inspirologos (Yellow Eyes Gone White), a true story of the author's struggle with sickle cell anemia; Sally Williams (Bird Eye), her debut anthology with an elegant twist; and R & B, pop and soft rock singer, Age Beeka.

NB: Book of the Month (April), Death and the King's Horsemen by Wole Soyinka and Book of the Month (May), There Was a Country by the late Chinua Achebe.

ABOUT ALS
ALS meets every, 1st Friday of the month at Transcorp Hilton Hotel, 7p.m; Second Friday @ Silverbird Entertainment Centre Abuja 7pm, Third Fridays @ Salamander Cafe, Abuja; BookJam holds every Last Friday of the month at Silverbird Entertainment Centre Abuja 6pm; Abuja Poetry Slam (performance Poetry competition) holds in March, June, September, and the Grand Slam will be in December. Special Guest writers will normally feature at the First Friday readings @ the Hilton. Special workshops, retreats and exchanges are part of our programmes. ALS can help you with manuscript editing ,organize a book presentation, marketing or special literary nights/events.

FMI, SMS: Chinelo: 08067958680; Ken: 0803-155-2555; or Victor: 0803-311-7246.

In Abuja... Easter carnival and dog show


There's going to be a 2-day Easter carnival on 31st March and 1st April 2013 from 9:00am to 5:00pm on both days here in Abuja. Activities will include Easter egg-hunt, mini-soccer, bouncy castles and the like, plus a dog show and competition. The event is being organized by Beechvale International Limited. Venue is at the Julius Berger Shooting Range, Kado.

Gate Fees will be charged for different categories: children, couples, adults, family, etc. Click on the organisers' website BIL ENTERTAINMENT & EVENTS for more details.


Abuja Writers Forum... Guest Writer Session on March 30

From the Abuja Writers Forum: Guest Writer Session on March 30 at 4:00pm

Tanimu Lagi and Ater Sawa, two writers with a background in Mass Communication will feature in the Easter edition of the Abuja Writers Forum’s (AWF) Guest Writer Session which holds on March 30 at Hamdala Plaza, Plot 23, Jimmy Carter Street, off Protea Hotel, Asokoro, Abuja.

Tanimu Sule Lagi, whose latest novel, The BOFAK Illusion appears on the Parisea imprint, is an indigene of Wamba in Nasarawa State and has a fascination for criminal satire. He studied Mass Communication at the University of Jos and later attended the Nigerian Institute of Journalism (NIJ), Lagos. He had a stint in News reporting with the Platau Radio Television Corporation (PRTVC) in the old Platau State, as a crime correspondent.

In the last ten years, Lagi has been involved in corporate legal practice, having also qualified as a lawyer. He is also a member of the Institute of Chartered mediators and conciliators (ICMC)
and lives in Jos with his family.
His previous publications include short stories (“The Easy Price of Life”, “Kofi’s Metamorphosis” and “ Broken Hearts Never Mend” ) published in Sunday Standard and a novel, Tsoho’s Manuscript (Spectrum, 2005).

Ater Sawa hails from Garkida in Adamawa State of Nigeria. He attended primary school at the Demonstration Primary School Yola. Even though he loves reading and writing, he never got the opportunity to offer subjects like Literature and History because he acquired his secondary school education at the Federal Technical College Orozo where he studied Agricultural Mechanization. 

After secondary school, he got admission to Federal University of Technology Minna for a B. Tech in Estate Management.
Partly because of his love for writing, Sawa decided to drop out of the University in his third year and went to pursue a diploma in Journalism at the International Institute of Journalism, Abuja. His parents were mad at him, especially his father who said, “You mean you abandoned Estate Management just to become a gossip?”

After his diploma programme, he got a direct entry to NTA TV College Jos for a Bachelor’s Degree. But at the end of his first year, his admission and that of a couple of other students were revoked by a screening committee from ABU Zaria (which the college is affiliated to). The committee said his admission was revoked because he did not offer Literature in secondary school.

Thereafter he got admission to study a Bachelor of Arts in Mass Communication (Print Media major) at Africa Nazarene University Nairobi, graduating with a second class honours (upper division) in 2013.

Sawa has written a number of short stories, among which is Lost in the Wind; which was published in Dugwe (Abuja Writers’ Forum anthology). Another short story, A War Within, was also published by Storymoja Kenya. He has written numerous articles in magazines and newspapers which include Daily Trust, Leadership, and Sunday Express Kenya. His debut book is a novella, The Storm is Over. He is presently working on his second book.

Sawa is also into storytelling and performance poetry. He also does a bit of acting and was a support actor (2012) in a Swahili television comedy Vioja Mahakamani which airs on Kenya Broadcasting Corporation (KBC).

The introverted Ater Andrawus Sawa who loves traveling, playing volleyball, and table tennis, is also adventurous with meat. He is 30 years old and single.

The March 30 edition of the Guest Writer Session starts at 4pm and will feature live music by guitarists Bem Sar and William Owoduni, and a mini art exhibition. The Abuja Writer’s Forum meets three Sundays each month and hosts a reading on every last Saturday at the International Institute of Journalism, Hamdala Plaza, Jimmy Carter Street, Asokoro, Abuja.

Abdullahi Abubakar,
Public Relations Officer (PRO),
AbujaWriters’ Forum (AWF),
Abuja.
08034519159
abujawriters@fastermail.com

Wednesday, March 27, 2013

In Abuja... Mountain hiking, with free t-shirt from Globacom and refreshment for participants


CLICK ON IMAGE
TO ENLARGE
The African Street Writer is calling on poets, writers, comedians and musicians and the general public to join a mountain climbing activity with poetry, music and comedy,  on 30th March 2013 (Easter Saturday).

Meeting place is the Wonderland Amusement Park. 

According to the organisers, The African Street Writer:
Mountain-hikers to get
free T-shirts from GLOBACOM
CLICK ON IMAGE TO ENLARGE
"This event is free, including all the materials and refreshments. You can as well customize the t-shirt to be provided by Globacom with your name. Interested participant who want their name customized on their t-shirt should please call 08065644244 or 08189114296 on or before 12noon on Friday 29th March, 2013 (participants automatically gets a reserved t-shirt which their name appear on). Like our page to get more update on this event and subsequent events." (Visit their website for more details at www.theafricanstreetwriter.com).



Tuesday, March 26, 2013

In Abuja... Celebrating World Theatre Day today, March 27

Scenes from the Spanish play Eloise is Under an Almond Tree,
as performed by the Jos Repertory Theatre on October 8, 2012, during the
7th Spanish Cultural Week. Photos by INSIDE TRACK

The National Association of Nigerian Theatre Arts Practitioners (NANTAP Abuja Chapter) will join theatre practitioners across the world in the celebration of this year's World Theatre Day, today, Wednesday 27th March, 2013.

In collaboration with the Arts & Culture Departments of the FCT Social Development Secretariat and other private theatre companies and outfits in Abuja, NANTAP Abuja have the following activities lined up:
* 10:00am: Opening Ceremony

Opening ceremony and interactive session on the theme: NATIONAL SECURITY AND THE ROLE OF THE ARTISTES, under the chairmanship of Prince Nwazuruahu Shield, the Special Adviser to the Minister of FCT on Security.

A theme talk on the above topic will be delivered by Mr. Bill Strassberger, Head of Public Affairs unit of the Embassy of the United State in Abuja.

* 12:00 - 1:00pm: War Horse Seminar

A cutting edge production seminar for practitioners, based on the War Horse, a 2011 war drama film directed by Steven Spielberg. It is an adaptation of British author Michael Morpurgo's 1982 children's novel of the same name set before and during World War I. The seminar is powered by the Open Mic Forum and will hold immediately after the brief opening ceremony.

* 5:00pm: Presentation of WTD Play and Award Night

The day will be rounded up with Arojah Royal Theatre's production of Seyi Adigun's play CALL FOR ME MY OSHENI which will be supported by The Village Square Children Theatre's presentation of a drama sketch on water and other attractions such as music and comedy.

The Highlight of the 2013 celebration of World Theatre Day in Abuja will be the presentation of AWARDS to three Nigerians who's contribution to the theatre and arts in general, both in FCT and Nigeria at large has been phenomenal. 

They include:

Dr. George Ufot
Director Culture,
Federal Ministry of Culture

Mrs. Blessing Onuh
Secretary
FCT Social Development Secretariat

Hajiya Nana Tsokwa
Director
Arts & Culture Department
FCT Social Development Secretariat

VENUE:
Community Hall, Cyprian Ekwensi Centre for Arts & Culture, Area 10, Garki - Abuja

Monday, March 25, 2013

In Ogun State.... Every picture tells a story


EVERY PICTURE TELLS A STORY...

You are invited to a public viewing of photos taken by students of the Baptist Boys High School, on 26th to 27th of March 2013, at the BBHS Hall, Oke-Sage, Abeokuta, Ogun State. Time is from 10am to 3pm on both days.

Sunday, March 24, 2013

Flashback... Chinua Achebe in Abuja

Chinua Achebe in Abuja, with members of the planning committee of the
Festival on Igbo Civilization in 2009. Photos by Araceli Aipoh


In January 2009, I received an invitation to attend a press conference in honour of Chinua Achebe at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel. It was in commemoration of the 50th year anniversary of his novel Things Fall Apart.

I don't know if that was the last time he was in Nigeria, but it certainly was the first after 10 years. The press conference was organised by the planning committee of the Festival on Igbo Civilization.

According to Wikipedia, Achebe moved to the United States in 1972, following an offer of professorship by the University of Massachusettes Amherst.

It means he lived outside Nigeria since then, and it means that by going to the press conference I am more lucky than the majority of Nigerians who had never had a glimpse of one of the most brilliant novelists in the world. Wole Soyinka may have won the Noble Prize, but none of Soyinka's works and none of all literary works in Nigeria can match the genius that went into the writing of TFA.




Friday, March 22, 2013

In Abuja... Girl talk with dinner

LEFT PHOTO: Yacine, Maria, Denise (back), Victoria, Hilary (back), Thalie, and Emanuela
RIGHT PHOTO:   Front - Araceli, Maria, Victoria and Emanuela. Back - Denise, Hilary and Yacine

For many diplomats, life is about a series of comings and goings. It can be fun, but it can be tough as well. Fun because you get the chance to visit or reside in different countries, know different cultures, meet different types of people... and tough because you make new friends only to part ways with them again in a matter of time. And just when you have settled down to enjoy the new environment (as the case may be), someone in the Home Office is telling you to pack your things and move to another post – and that’s how the cycle goes. For those who have chosen this path, I guess they are very much aware of the system and they get used to it in time. They get used to the welcome and farewell parties, the packing and dealing with moving companies, and saying hello as often as you say goodbye.

Last Saturday, 16 March 2013, Victoria Tunba, who is with the American Embassy, said goodbye to her colleagues in the diplomatic world here in Abuja. Her tour of duty in Nigeria is over and she is going back to the United States for good. A farewell dinner in her honour was hosted by Yacine Ba, Ambassador’s P.A. at the Canadian High Commission. I was one of the invited guests... along with Yacine’s and Victoria’s colleagues from a few embassies in Abuja.

Yacine is a most gracious and vivacious hostess, entertaining us with a multiple-course dinner that we enjoyed along with the conversations. I liked that the night had a very informal feeling – all very light, and friendly, and cozy. And Yacine has a lovely home, filled with art works – paintings and carvings – a couple of family photographs, a potted plant just at the right place, a veranda with a magnificent view... and it’s perfect.

And despite the heavy rain that night, I was glad I was able to go because I met all these lovely, lovely ladies and I enjoyed listening to them. Had the chance to talk with Victoria and ask her a couple of questions, like what did she enjoy most while she was in Abuja and she said, “As you may know, there isn’t much to do around here. But I do enjoy giving myself a chance to read and to discuss what I’ve read with the ladies from the American community. I’ve never joined a book club before coming to Abuja. And because I love traveling, the other thing I enjoyed while here was traveling outside of Abuja . . . though I’ve only been to places like the pottery in Bwari, Gurara Falls, and Kaduna which was the farthest place I’ve been to – as a day trip in Nigeria; trip that was taken in January of this year.”

As I post this, she has but a few hours left before she boards a plane back to California.. Her parting message to expats who are coming to Nigeria for the first is simple and practical and that is: “Make effort to meet people outside your community.”

I couldn’t agree more.

So goodbye, Victoria. We at  INSIDE TRACK ABUJA wish you all the best!



Thursday, March 21, 2013

The Garden Restaurant and Cafe, at Wuse 2, Abuja

The Garden, in Abuja (Photos from The Garden Facebook page)
In line with INSIDE TRACK's wish to provide useful information to our readers regarding entertainment in Abuja, I  am doing a research on the various establishments where one can relax, have a drink, get some food and listen to music. To this end, I was told to check a place called The Garden, a restaurant and cafe located at The River Plate Park, 147 Ahmadu Bello Way, Wuse 2, Abuja. They serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  There are various events created regularly by the management, complete with a live band. You can keep track of their calendar by following them on Facebook at The Garden Abuja or call 0813 072 4617 for more information. If you have been to this place and would like to tell us about your experience, please feel free to do so. (Photos culled from THE GARDEN Facebook page.)

Wednesday, March 20, 2013

In Calabar... International Jazz Festival set for Easter debut


Culled from www.afriticket.com

Not content with hosting the world famous Calabar Festival each December, Cross River State is set to be the location for yet another international music treat, the Calabar Jazz Festival, slated for the upcoming Easter weekend.

The decision to make the Calabar Jazz Festival an annual event is a direct result of the success of the jazz concerts held during the Calabar Festival, and the demand from the more discerning consumer for a jazz event in a more intimate setting.
Easter weekend getaway (in response to requests from overworked Lagosians and others from around the country) and is expected to be a permanent feature in the social calendar.Connoisseurs of Smooth Jazz,
funky R 'n' B and sweet soul music can look forward to3-NIGHTS of fabulous headline performances by
D'Angelo and Eric Benet (US),Jonathan Butler (SA) and Nigerian superstars Asa and Darey.

Visitors to Calabar also get to have an experience that will literally take their breath away. The ancient city of Calabar with its undulating landscape, historically significant as the first capital city of Nigeria, is the cleanest, greenest and safest capital in Nigeria.

In addition to the concerts, there will be fun day-time activities and tours for all the family; fabulous VIP after-parties, and, of course, an opportunity to sample some of the local delicacies which have led to Calabar being acclaimed the best kitchen in the country!

The confirmed line-up of artistes for the Calabar International Jazz Festival from 29-31st March is as follows:

DATE: 29th MARCH, 2013
TIME: 7pm
VENUE: Cultural Centre, Calabar, CrossRiver State, Nigeria.
ARTISTS PERFORMING:
D'Angelo, Asa, Darey, Bez

DATE: 30th MARCH, 2013
TIME: 7pm
VENUE: Cultural Centre, Calabar, CrossRiver State, Nigeria.
ARTISTS PERFORMING:
Eric Benet, Jonathan Butler, Burna Boy

DATE: 31st MARCH, 2013
TIME: 7pm
VENUE: Millennium Park, Calabar, Cross River State, Nigeria.
ARTISTS PERFORMING:
Darey, Bez, Burna Boy

Tickets and all-inclusive travel packages to Calabar (flights, hotel, concert tickets, after-parties and ground transfers) will be available soon from www.afritickets.com

Sponsors include: International construction firm Bouygues, Arik Air, NET Construct, and MTV Base.
Media Partners: Cool FM, The Lagos Naija FM, Beat FM, Smooth FM, Kiss FM and Ebony Life

For more information, please contact: 07038041161.


Tuesday, March 19, 2013

Sighted in Abuja.... Bianca Ojukwu, Ambassador of Nigeria to Spain

CLICK TO ENLARGE
H.E. Bianca Ojukwu, Ambassador of Nigeria to Spain
Lawyer, former beauty queen (Miss Martini 1988 and Miss Intercontinental 1989), and now Ambassador of Nigeria to Spain, Her Excellency Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu was at the French Institute in Abuja on 11th March 2013 during the Round Table on The Role of Women Towards a Transformation of the Society, jointly organised by the Embassy of France, Embassy of Spain, and the Female Artists Association of Nigeria. Ambassador Ojukwu wore a traditional Nigerian dress which complimented her light complexion. I think she is one of Nigeria's most enigmatic women.

Meanwhile... watch a movie

There's an ongoing film festival at the French Institute. Tonight, March 20 at 7pm,  discover the last movie by Bouli Lanners: "The Giants." A cocktail will be offered by the Embassy of Belgium after the screening

Free and open to all!



Monday, March 18, 2013

In Abuja... World Poetry Day at the Korean Cultural Center


To commemorate the World Poetry Day 2013, Arojah Concepts, in collaboration with the Korean Cultural Center (Embassy of Korea), presents the 3rd Korea - Nigeria Poetry Feast, an evening of poetry feasting in honour of womanhood.

Prizes will be presented to winners of this year's edition of the POETRY COMPETITION

Chairman: Chief Nyesom Wike (Hon Minister of State for Education)
Sp. Guests: Ambassador A.A. Musa (PS, Ministry of Petroleum)
Ambassador S. Kilander (Sweden Embassy)
Mr. Eriata Orhibhabor (Chair, ANA Abuja)
Prof. Ruqqayat Ahmed (Minister of Education)
Oloye Olajumoke Akinjide (Minister of State Education)

Hosts: High Chief Edem Duke (Minister of Culture)
H.E. Amb., Jeung Hyun Choi (Ambassador of Korea)

Guest Poet: Lady Inspirologo (Ifueko Ogbomo)
Onimisi 'Wordsworth' Adejoh

Date: Thursday 21st March, 2013
Time: 4.00 - 6.00pm prompt
Venue: Korean Cultural Center, 2nd Floor, Rivers Plaza, Ralph Sodeinde Street, Central Business District, Abuja.

Are you a WOMAN or a POET. You could also be both. Then, you are cordially invited!

You might have a chance to read your poem, meet your favourite poet, or find a poem made just for you...
Enquiries: 0803 453 0786


Sunday, March 17, 2013

This Saturday in Abuja... Lebanese lunch for charity



To celebrate Mothers' Day (which is celebrated in Lebanon on the 21st of March) the Ladies of Charity are organizing a Lebanese Lunch at the Ceasar's Restaurant (facing Chopsticks).  Come and celebrate motherhood on Saturday March 23rd, 2013 at 13:00 and have taste delicious Lebanese food!

All Proceeds go to charity.

For reservation, please send an email to dohasarieddine@yahoo.com or call 0807 226 66 66.

Saturday, March 16, 2013

In Abuja... Former Vice-President of Spain heads round table discussion on women

Round Table on the Role of Women Towards the Transformation of Society.
From left to right: Mrs. Unoma Giese, Mrs. Halima Oyelade, Mrs. Alidou Hassana,
Mrs. Teresa Fernandez de la Vega, Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu, Mrs. Ngozi Akande,
Mrs. Patience Ekeba, Mrs. Ojobo Atuluku, and Mrs. Ezenwa
(CLICK TO ENLARGE)

Her Excellency Ma. Teresa Fernandez de la Vega, former Vice President of the Government of Spain and current President of a foundation called Women for Africa, was one of the guests speakers at a round table discussion on the topic The Role of Women Towards a Transformation of the Society on 11th March 2013 at the Institut Francaise du Nigeria. The round table was held in the framework of the celebration of this year’s International Women’s Day, jointly organised by the Embassy of Spain, Embassy of France, and the Female Artists Association of Nigeria.


Joining Mrs. Fernandez de la Vega at the round table were: Mrs. Ngozi Akande (President of Female Artists Association of Nigeria); Prof. Alidou Hassana (Officer in Charge, UNESCO); Mrs. Halima Oyelade (Director, Zuma Festival); Mrs. Patience Ekeoba (Women Rights Coordinator, ActionAid and Chair of the Development Partners Group on Gender in Nigeria); Mrs. Ojobo Atuluku (Director, Development in Practice); and Mrs. Ezenwa (MD/CEO Le Look Nigeria Ltd).

Mrs. Unoma Giese, left,
and Mrs. Halima Oyelade
The guests talked about their personal experiences while promoting women-related causes and projects that would contribute to the transformation not only of the lives of women – especially those who are helpless and uninformed – but also of the society where they live. Speaking through an interpreter, Mrs. De la Vega, the first woman to become Vice-President of her country, Spain, said “When you are given the power or the position to do something, then you have to use it, to exercise it,” adding that “women make progress through laws, policies, and money (public funding).” 

The round table was moderated by Mrs. Unoma Giese, a writer and photographer and member of the Female Artists Association of Nigeria. 

Also making an appearance at the event was H. E. Mrs. Bianca Ojukwu, current Ambassador of Nigeria to Spain, as well as the Ambassadors of France, Spain, and Finland.

According to the Ambassador of Spain to Nigeria, H.E. Alvaro Castillo Aguilar, the purpose of the visit of Mrs. Fernandez de la Vega to Nigeria is “to sign a MoU with ECOWAS Commission, to establish a first contact with the Nigerian film industry and to have a real perception of women in Nigeria.”

These photos were taken at the event.

From left to right:
The Ambassador of France, Ambassador of Finland,
and Ambassador of Spain


Friday, March 15, 2013

In Abuja... Woks & Koi Chinese Cuisine


Local Elections are being held in Abuja today. Means movement by the general public is limited or restricted.  Most people are staying at home except those who will go out and vote. It will last from 7am to 5pm. Meanwhile...

One of the most popular restaurants serving Chinese cuisine here in Abuja is the Woks and Koi Chinese Cuisine, conveniently located inside the Silverbird Entertainment Centre. It is managed by an expat and the chef cook is also an expat.  Average meal per person is between N3,000 to N5,000. Service is quick and portions are generous.

CLICK TO ENLARGE
Woks & Koi
CLICK TO ENLARGE
Woks & Koi


Thursday, March 14, 2013

In Lagos... Ghanaian singer to perform live at the Jazzhole


Ghanaian singer, Efya, will perform live at the Jazzhole, 168 Awolowo Road, Ikoyi, Lagos, on Sunday, 17th March 2013,  at 5pm. Gate fee is N3,500.

Wednesday, March 13, 2013

In Abuja... Julius Berger awards short story writing competition winners

Julius Berger awarding winners in short story writing competition

Culled from JULIUS BERGER
The top three winners of the Julius Berger Nigeria Plc (JB) 2012 Short Story Writing Competition have been chosen.
On March 11, 2013, JB held an award ceremony in Abuja FCT to award the first place winner, Maimunah Zakari, from the Government Secondary School in Jiwa.
On March 6, 2013, JB held award ceremonies in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, to recognize the second and third place winners, Mmenyene Nse Etim, from the West Itam Secondary School, Ekit Itam and Glory Ekanem Edet from the Community Secondary Commercial School, Ikot Okubo, respectively.
The short story writing competition was one component in Julius Berger’s Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) driven 2012 Literacy Campaign. The Literacy Campaign also included the initiation of Julius Berger Book Clubs, the distribution of over 5,000 copies of the book “The Great Fall” by Nigerian author Chinyere Obi-Obasi to schools in Abuja, Lagos and Uyo and writing workshops, tailored to improve the reading and writing skills of participating students. The Literacy Campaign was established with the goal of reinvigorating the reading culture in Nigeria's youth and will continue in 2013.
Beneficiaries of the initiative are public schools with a proven record of excellence and focus on progress.

ABOUT JULIUS BERGER
Julius Berger Nigeria Plc is a Nigerian company offering integrated construction solutions. The company has been operating in Nigeria since 1965 and its scope covers all areas of construction. Julius Berger is dedicated to utilization of cutting-edge technologies and the long term training and education of its staff of 18,000 people. Integrity, transparency, safety and sustainability are the pillars of Julius Berger’s structures and behaviors. The company is committed to being a responsible corporate citizen and actively seeks out opportunities to make measurable differences in the future of people and communities. Key areas of focus include Health, Education and Sports.



In Abuja... Abuja Writers Forum announces writing workshops


THE APRIL WRITING WORKSHOPS
April 6, 13, 20 & 27
10am – 5pm
Fiction, Poetry and Drama
Fee N10,000:00

Fiction, Poetry and Drama Writing Workshops over four weekends, organised by the Abuja Writers Forum (AWF).

Participants will get the opportunity to acquire the right tools, techniques and support to develop their writing skills in any of the aforementioned genres, working with knowledgeable and experienced instructors. 
For registration details send an email to prohabe@hotmail.com indicating which workshop you are interested in. You can also call 08092227705, 08057109819 or 08058520145.

Monday, March 11, 2013

In Abuja... Francophonie festival at the French Institute


1) Two Weeks of Cinema

Francophonie festival starts today, Tuesday, March 12: Two weeks of cinema with movies from 9 French speaking countries! All movies are in French - with English subtitles.

2) Celebrate the French language through photography!

Take an original photo to illustrate one of the 10 words of the Francophonie 2013: “atelier, bouquet, cachet, coup de foudre, équipe, protéger, savoir-faire, unique, vis-à-vis, voilà” and submit your entry at the Institute and to cultural@institutfr-nigeria.org

Also at the French Institute:

March 16
A day for kids

March 23
Full day of events and entertainment: Scrabble, Dictation, and Quiz

For more info:
Facebook:  INSTITUTE FRANCAIS
Or call: 0805 9478 456
Or send email to coordinatorstudies@institutfr-nigeria.org



In Abuja... Easter bazaar at Wonderland Amusement Park


Wonderland Amusement Park  and Pepsi are organizing a special Easter bazaar on 23rd and 24th of March 2013.

Wonderland Fun and Free Pepsi for everyone

For participation, call 09-7804000 or 08056897887. Or visit Wonderland Office at B001 Kukwaba, Abuja, opposite the National Stadium Abuja.


In Abuja.... Vacancy for HR and operations manager at international NGO


Company: VSO Nigeria (Operating in Nigerian
since 1958)
Position: People and Operations Manager to be
based in Abuja
Last date for application: 22nd March 2013
Send email to: vsonigeria@vsoint.org

VSO is the world's leading independent international development organisation that works through volunteers to fight poverty in over 40 developing countries. VSO's high-impact approach involves bringing people together to share skills, build capabilities, promote international understanding and action, and change lives to make the world a fairer place.

 VSO has been operating across Nigeria since 1958 and has accompanied the country through complex social change and growth, alongside local conflict and instability. As part of its current country strategy 2012-15, VSO Nigeria works with poor and marginalized young men and women in an integrated way and to shape our responses based on the needs and priorities they identify. We relate to youth as both ultimate beneficiaries, as well as our key facilitators of social change. We focus on children (boys and girls), adolescent girls and boys (10-19 years range) and young men and women (20- 35 years).

VSO Nigeria needs a People and Operations Manager to strengthen its operations. As a senior member of Country leadership team, the primary purpose of this role is to lead, develop , implement, and manage the human resource function for both volunteers and staff and provide operations management support to deliver the country strategy by providing guidance and support to over 40 international volunteers and employees within the country;  will lead a highly motivated, dynamic and cost effective people and operations team to support effective delivery of country program operations; represents VSO internally and externally as required. The People and Operations Manager will report directly to the Country Director.

Key responsibilities include:
  • Provide Volunteer Management and Support by Implementing and monitoring volunteer policies and responding pro-actively to all volunteer welfare support matters, including the handling of complex situations and medical needs.
  • Build strategic relationships with key stakeholders like Nigerian immigration service, national planning commission and other key organisations to facilitate effective and timely support to operations; Ensure compliance with Country employment law, including volunteers' visas, work permits and police clearance.
  • Lead on operations support to programs team: Ensure appropriate systems procedure and manuals are in place to safeguard VSO's assets, including negotiating fair terms for VSO contracts on rents, purchases and ensuring maintenance of premises and other VSO property to VSO audit standards. Manage development of appropriate logistics and procurement procedures and ensure they are effectively and consistently applied at all levels to ensure cost effective, environmentally friendly operations. Manage Country Office contracts with all service providers.
  • Manage Employee/ volunteer relations through continuous and proactive communication on VSO and CO's mission, vision and values, facilitating team building, Ensure health and safety. Establish and administer appropriate pay and benefit structures in line with the approved VSO policy on benefits and compensation.
  • Assist the Country Director in Recruitment & Selection, Learning and Development, Performance management, Change management and engagement processes and in developing and implementing systems at country level for effective management of in country operations.
  • Information and Communication Technology: Coordinate and implement effective Information Technology administration, support to the team by ensuring adequate data and protection, maintaining the shared filing system, conducting IT audit by liaising with VSO's IT support unit.
  • Knowledge, skills and experience required


Essential:
  • Human Resources - experienced HR professional with demonstrable experience at a management level; Ability to advise, coach and influence others in people management matters;
  • Knowledge of Nigerian employment and immigration laws.
  • Experience of working with different cultures and backgrounds and commitment to equality and diversity issues
  • Experience of developing and delivering learning and development initiatives
  • People Management - Ability to lead, develop, motivate, coach and support others; Demonstrable commitment to delivering excellent customer service.
  • Significant Operations and logistics experience at a management level. Knowledge and experience of local laws governing operations of INGOs; High level communication, influencing and coaching skills; Experience of working with different cultures and backgrounds.
  • Flexibility to adapt to new situations, with a positive attitude to working in an international organisation. Able to travel occasionally and spend time away from base and home for up to 10 weeks per year
  • Commitment to VSO's values, particularly in developing an understanding of HIV&AIDS and Gender mainstreaming
  •  Good level of computer skills (Windows, Excel, Power Point, Word, Internet); Excellent Communication skills - written and spoken English; Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to build relationships in a multi-cultural environment.
  • Self-organised with ability to manage time and tight schedules; working effectively under pressure; Proactive person with a creative approach to problem solving; Strong level of attention to detail.
  • Good financial management skills and strong attitude to promote efficiency and cost effectiveness in all operations 
  • Flexibility to adapt to new situations.
  • Willingness to travel up to 10 weeks per year;

Desirable: 
Experience working with international Non-Government Organisations and with Government
Officials.

Clean driving license.
Knowledge of Nigerian employment laws, experience of working with volunteers.

How to Apply
Applications should be sent with your CV, motivation cover letter and two names of your nominated referees to: vsonigeria@vsoint.org by no later than 22nd March 2013. We respect all candidates but we can only respond to shortlisted candidates. Although all applications will be considered on their individual merit, suitably qualified women are especially encouraged to apply.

Persons who had applied in response to earlier advert for this position are advised to re-apply if still interested.

Sunday, March 10, 2013

New in Abuja... How to keep fit with Tai Chi

Thea Haklander, a Tai Chi instructor in Abuja
A certified teacher inTai Chi and Qi Gong, Thea Haklander, is offering classes and lessons for small groups in Abuja.

Tai Chi and Qi Gong are movements and exercises of Chinese origin aimed at well-being, personal health and performance through the balance of energy (chi). Exercises can be done by anyone, at any age in any condition.

Courses offered:
Thea Haklander,
a Tai Chi instructor in Abuja
Qi Gong – "Five elements" (health exercises for mind and body)
Qi Gong – "Eight Brocates" (health exercises for mind and body)
Tai Chi – Beginners

The Qi Gong 5 elements and the 8 brocates are repetitive courses, so if you miss a lesson, that's not a problem. Tai Chi is also possible as private lesson, for example if you miss a lesson and you need a quick update to catch up.

Schedule:
09.00 – 10am 10.30 – 11.30am
Mondays 5 Elements Tai Chi beginners
Wednesdays 8 Brocates Tai Chi beginners
Thursdays 5 Elements 8 Brocates

Small groups, exercise room with A/C.
2000 Naira per lesson
Dress: loose fit clothes and socks (no shoes or bare feet)

For application or more information: theahaklander@gmail.com or call her at 08068145924

From Thea:
TAI CHI
Tai Chi Chuan is an ancient Chinese motion art. Commonly known as Tai Chi, it is both martial art and health exercise; combining deep breathing with slow and gentle movements it focuses on internal energy (chi) and stimulates physical and mental health. The flowing movements have a positive effect on breathing and circulation.
Through constant and gentle movements and concentration the mind comes to rest. This silence will ease your body and as a result our motion is fully relaxed and coordinated without using any force. Still muscular strength is trained. An ideal way of balancing body and mind.
On the outside the form, as the series of movements is called, looks like a slow dance, on the inside it is a continuous alternation of two poles, slow and fast, soft and hard, yin and yang.
A well developed posture, total relaxation and understanding energy patterns are important. Listening to and following the internal energy of the body, the strength and resilience of the relaxed muscles is characteristic for Tai Chi. Tai chi is beneficial for your health, personal wellbeing and performance. It brings you closer to your inner self and internal balance.
The art of Tai Chi has various styles and forms. Depending on the style it can be performed individually, in pairs or groups. I am a certified trainer in Yuan style of Tai Chi Chuan. 
QI GONG
Many forms of Tai Chi are based on the even more ancient art of Qi Gong (Chi Kung). Qi Gong consists of series of repetitious body health exercises that create balance in body and mind through the use of energy. Qi Gong exercises have a direct effect on your health because they are focused on specific areas of your body. The series of Qi Gong exercises are made up of simple movements to be repeated several times and commonly performed on the spot. Qi Gong positively affects breathing, posture and body consciousness.
Anyone, at any age or condition can exercise Tai Chi and Qi Gong.

From the web... Maria Shriver on why women must lean in


Why Women Must Lean In and Push Back
by Maria Shriver
(Award-winning journalist, best-selling author and activist)

After weeks of pre-publication buzz and media discussion, Facebook COO Sheryl Sandberg's new book, Lean In: Women, Work, and The Will To Lead, finally hits bookstores and digital devices on Monday.

I count Sheryl as a friend, both online and off. I've read the book and applaud her for getting people talking again about challenges women face in achieving equal opportunity, power and pay with men. It takes a lot of guts to step into the public arena and, to borrow a phrase from Brené Brown, "dare greatly."

From the web... 10 fitness tips for people who don't want to work out


10 Fitness Tips for People Who Don't Want to Work Out
SPECIAL FROM Next Avenue
By Linda Melone

You don't have to join a gym to get in shape. These expert tips will incorporate exercise into your daily routine.

If you're having a hard time motivating yourself to embrace a new fitness routine, don't give up on the plan. Instead, try taking some small steps in the course of your normal daily routine. "Small bouts of activity make movement a more normal part of your life," says psychologist Elizabeth Lombardo, the author of "A Happy You: Your Ultimate Prescription for Happiness." "We're creatures of habit. So if you take the stairs one day you're more likely to take them again the next day. After a while you won't do it consciously, it simply becomes part of your normal repertoire."



Thursday, March 7, 2013

Inside Track Interview with Doha Sarieddine - President of the Abuja International Women's Club


Doha Makarem Sarieddine from Lebanon first arrived in Abuja in October 2008. This was after she and Lewa, her husband who is also a Lebanese, got married and decided to reside here in Abuja. In her opinion, the FCT “is the most livable city in Nigeria,” which she considers very important for their two young sons. Along the way, in September last year, Doha became the president of the Abuja International Women’s Club (also known as AIWC), which has served as a meeting point for women from different countries for several years now, giving them opportunities to relax, to network, to learn and exchange ideas and information.
Having met Doha at least a couple of times, I thought it would be great to know her opinion about life in Abuja and what advice she has for women coming here for the first time. More than that, Doha, who is an MBA degree holder with a soft heart for underprivileged children, tells us about growing up in Lebanon and how she divides her time between the things she loves doing most, such as being a mom, meeting people, making new friends, and doing consultancy works for hospitality groups in the country, among other things.

INSIDE TRACK: What’s the reason why you are in Abuja?
Doha: I got married to Lewa who's been living in Nigeria for 17 years and has his business established in the country. But we chose Abuja specifically for our residence because it’s the most livable city in Nigeria which is very important for our 2 young boys.

CLICK TO ENLARGE
Doha, left, with Dr Ashia Siddiqi-Hussain,
guest speaker who talked about cervical cancer
INSIDE TRACK: What do you enjoy most about living in Abuja? 
Doha: The sun, the time available to practice my hobbies, the routine I can set for my two boys, and the opportunity to meet and learn a lot from people, both Nigerians and members of the international community.

INSIDE TRACK: Was it easy meeting people and making friends the first time you arrived in Nigeria?
Doha: The Lebanese community is a big one, so it's pretty easy to meet people, but the Abuja International Women's Club made it much easier to get outside this circle and open up to meet people from all over the world which makes it even more interesting. 

INSIDE TRACK: What made you join the Abuja International Women’s Club? How long have you been a member and what do you enjoy most about this group? 
Doha: I joined in September 2009. I hadn't heard about the club when I met a lady-member, Shirley Bowry, and she invited me to attend a meeting. I was very impressed to see so many ladies from different countries getting together in one place. I got very excited and I became a member since then; and I still enjoy it as it is very enriching. Meeting people from different nationalities, different cultures and backgrounds makes me learn a lot about so many levels and makes me have a different perspective, a wider one before I judge any situation and even not to judge people based on my own mindset. I also enjoy it because it is a great opportunity to socialize and learn different know-how from other ladies. That makes living in Abuja even more interesting. 

Doha, left, with a guest speaker at the
monthly AIWC meeting
INSIDE TRACK: How did you become the President of the Abuja International Women’s Club? 
Doha: Well I've been a committee member since 2010. But in September 2012 the AIWC was about to dissolve as there were not enough ladies interested or able to join and form an efficient new committee. Here's when I felt a personal responsibility not to let that happen after all the efforts made by the ladies who were previously in charge. I approached some ladies and persuaded them to join. It worked! Once we had the right number and the right people to form a committee, there came the question of who's going to preside. I suggested Dr. Madeleine Collie who has a great experience with NGOs and similar groups but Madeleine preferred to be vice-president – as her commuting outside Abuja had to be limited for personal reasons – and I the president which was supported by the other members. And that's how we started.

INSIDE TRACK: Aside from AIWC, what other associations or groups do you belong to? And why did or do you choose to be a part of these associations?
Doha: When I'm in Lebanon I'm a volunteer at the Children Cancer Center. I've always had weakness towards unprivileged children and just feel that these little angels deserve nothing but the best and I would do anything to contribute with whatever I have to make it easier from them in their battle.

INSIDE TRACK: Which part of your country do you come from and how is it different from the rest of the country?
CLICK TO ENLARGE
Doha, right, with members of AIWC
Doha: I come from Mount Lebanon, an area known for its lovely weather, beautiful views from all directions and forests full of pine trees. You feel that technology and globalization have not damaged the environment that much; people are still trying to preserve their traditions and identity. But somehow I feel I have roots in every other Lebanese region as every place has its beauty and its special meaning to me. 

INSIDE TRACK: Can you describe a bit of your growing up years?
Doha: I grew up in a family of three kids, a sister, a brother and loving parents. My mother is a perfectionist so she had high expectations from us, and a believer who always guides us on the right path. My father was an intellectual, he would never compromise his principles. I never stopped looking up to him. We had to live in an area different from where I was born due to the war and my father’s work. So I went to school in Bekaa where I got my French education, then moved to the capital Beirut for university education where I got an MBA from the Lebanese American University. These changes gave me an open mind and tolerance for "the other" despite his or her belongings. It also taught me adaptability to different situations. 

INSIDE TRACK: What did you wish to become when you were growing up? 
Doha: I've always wanted to be a psychologist, but due to the lack of student orientation in Lebanon I went in a completely other direction. Got a degree in hospitality management then an MBA. I worked in different departments of Lebanon' s best 5 star hotel and taught leadership and other hospitality courses. I still read a lot of psychology books though. 

INSIDE TRACK: What do you miss most about home? 
Doha: Home, family, the nature and weather in my village and how it feels, and some friends who became like siblings. I also miss the endless outing venues. 

INSIDE TRACK: What does a busy day for you look like? 
Doha: Well, most days are very long. I usually wake up at six to prepare my son for school then drive him there, come back, check my mails, and get ready for the club activities. In the afternoon I pick up my son, have lunch with my husband and the boys, do some planning and paper work, answer mails, make my phone calls, then I spend some time with the boys, read for them and put them to sleep, then attend to various other matters. On the professional level, I'm a consultant to some hospitality groups which keeps me busy all the time. I spare my time in the car to read a good book. 

INSIDE TRACK: How do you cope with raising children here in Nigeria?
Doha: In fact, I think that Nigeria is a very good place to raise children. The weather is convenient, you can easily set a routine for them and it’s a great opportunity for them to learn and understand about other cultures. The challenge is the lack of health care facilities and of course when they reach their teenage years they will need to live in a place where they have more opportunity to advance their education and practice their hobbies and talents.

INSIDE TRACK: What is your advice to expats, especially the women, who are coming to Abuja for the first time?
Doha: Women influence the attitude of the whole family, so come with a positive attitude and it will be a great experience to live in Nigeria. Help the local community if you could. Benefit from the many activities that you might not have the chance or the time to practice back home; try to take advantage of the free time to learn new skills or hobbies. Enjoy the sun, the leisure time, and the cheerful nature of the Nigerian people. Look at things with an open mind. Abuja is a lovely city if you decide to perceive it as such.

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Some members of the Abuja International Women's Club

ABOUT AIWC - HOW TO BE A MEMBER
Membership with the Abuja International Women’s Club is open to all nationalities including Nigerians. AIWC aims to promote tolerance and understanding of different cultures by engaging in a wide range of social activities and also support humanitarian projects with the local community.

You can become a member by joining one of the club’s social events. There’s a registration or annual fee of N5,000 which provides you with full membership and a chance to participate in the club’s exciting and interesting programme of events throughout the year. Aside from providing an avenue to meet people, make new friends, share experiences and tap into the knowledge of other members, benefits include a free copy of the AIWC e-newsletter. Things to look forward to are the monthly meetings where a speaker on a certain topic is usually invited.

Upon registration, you get a copy of the AIWC Constitution, which formally explains the purpose and objectives of the club. For information, send e-mail to: abujaiwc@yahoo.com.

You can follow the ABUJA INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S CLUB on Facebook by searching for the same name. The pics below show members of the AIWC during their monthly activities...

Visiting the DAUGHTERS OF CHARITY
Kubwa

Monthly meeting at Sheraton Hotel

AIWC cooking session

Editor's Note....On International Women's Day

Today is International Women’s Day (IWD). Making online research about the origins of this event, I am surprised to discover that IWD is observed as a public holiday in several countries – which is not such a big deal, but the bigger deal is that IWD is official holiday FOR WOMEN ONLY (yes, you read it right, for women only) in countries such us China, Macedonia, Madagascar and Nepal.

I am thinking (for my own selfish reasons, I suppose) that Nigeria should take a hint from these four countries and declare the next IWD as Public Holiday – for women only! In politics, I guess, if someone is running for the post of a President, the fastest way to get the women voters is to promise to declare, if elected, March 8 as a Public Holiday for women only. Do you think women voters in Nigeria will fall for it? And should any aspiring-to-be-President politician even try?

Here are some trivia about IWD:

  • Thousands of events related to women, their causes, their welfare, their jobs, safety, and role in development, etc. occur around the world not just on this day but all throughout the month of March.
  • The United Nations has a theme each year. The theme for IWD 2013 is “A promise is a promise: Time for action to end violence against women.” Many groups around the world choose a theme of their own for their events and celebrations.
  • According to Wikipedia: “International Women’s Day 2017 will be the hundredth anniversary of the Russian Revolution, which was sparked on March 8, 1917 by women protesting against bread shortages in St. Petersburg. These events culminated in the abdication of Tsar Nicholas II on March 15. Worldwide celebrations and re-enactments are scheduled to begin on March 8, 2017. Among the organisers is the Ukrainian women's direct action group FEMEN, which aims "to shake women in Ukraine, making them socially active; to organize in 2017 a women's revolution." Adds Wikipedia: “On this day a global women's strike including a sex strike is planned, called by, among others, the International Union of Sex Workers.”
  • While many countries, organisations, and individuals continue to view IWD in the context of human rights and political angles, others have seen IWD simply as an occasion for men to express their love and respect for women similar to Mother’s Day or Valentine’s Day.
In Abuja, an art exhibition (opened yesterday and will run up to March 17) has been organised by the Embassy of France, Embassy of Spain, and the Female Artists Association of Nigeria. Click here to read more about the exhibition called PLIGHTS OF WOMEN II.

Meanwhile, here on INSIDE TRACK, we have two articles to mark this day in our own little way. One is an interview (above) with MRS. DOHA SARIEDDINE, President of the Abuja International Women’s Club, and the other (below) is a list of 5 remarkable women who had done something no other women had done before them.