Category: Culture

Udo Ebaide Joy, a Nigerian motorbiker took on the mantle of solo riding from Mumbasa, Kenya to Lagos Nigeria. After 118 days, Ebaide finally arrived at her destination, Lagos Nigeria.

Why? In a conversation she had with BBC Africa she said her riding journey was inspired by her will to live her life to the fullest, and for her it’s travelling and riding her motorbike.

Ebaide travelled through Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, Zambia, Angola, Cameroon and then Nigeria. She describes the eery feeling she got travelling alone in the forest “I was so scared,” but remembers the joyous moments of travelling through those countries.

When she arrived in Lagos, to her surprise she was welcomed with a warm crowd singing and dancing.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Ebaide | ADV Motorcyclist (@go_ebaide)

In a post via Instagram, she said completing the cross-border solo ride challenge has positively changed her mindset.

“To every biker who waited to welcome and ride with me to the venue, THANK YOU VERY MUCH.

Achieving this has caused a big shift in my mind. Suddenly, I have a myriad of things I want to do and I’m so sure will work, because I have achieved something I once thought was too hard to dare.
I want to PLAN, START and EXECUTE new things.
There is a part of my brain that believes anything I try will succeed, because I have the tenacity and resilience to see it through.

I am NOT the same person.
I have changed in the most positive ways.
I feel so privileged to have achieved this.

I can’t wait for many more exciting challenges I’ll go headlong into.
There has never been a better time to feel this alive!
It feels good to be here.“

Udo Ebaide Joy who began her trip on March 8 will begin another solo trip in August from Nigeria to Morocco. The motorbiker made the trip on a two-wheeler she named “Rory”.

The 2024 BET Awards is live with incredible nominees’ performances and winners. We saw an interesting Taraji P. Henson parody entrance of Kendrick Lamar’s “Not Like Us” as she hosts this year’s show.

Will Smith is performing his new song “You Can Make It” with Kirk Franklin. Leading this year’s nomination is Drake. Tyla and Makhadzi are winning big for South Africa.

Will Smith makes his comeback to rapping with a performance tonight at the BET Awards, doing his new song called "You Can Make It" with Kirk Franklin and Fridayy #BETAwards pic.twitter.com/mgbhC8ZyOV

— SOUND | Victor Baez (@itsavibe) July 1, 2024

Album of the year

Chris Brown, 11:11
Gunna, A Gift & A Curse
21 Savage, American Dream
Usher, Coming Home
Drake, For All the Dogs (Scary Hours Edition)
Victoria Monét, Jaguar II
Killer Mike, Michael – WINNER
Nicki Minaj, Pink Friday 2

Best Female R&B/Pop Artist

Beyoncé
Coco Jones
Doja Cat
H.E.R.
Muni Long
SZA – WINNER
Tyla
Victoria Monét

Best male R&B/pop artist

Brent Faiyaz
Bryson Tiller
Burna Boy
Chris Brown
Drake
Fridayy
October London
Usher – WINNER

Best Group

¥$, Ye, Ty Dolla $ign – WINNER
2 Chainz & Lil Wayne
41
Blxst & Bino Rideaux
City Girls
Flo
Maverick City Music
Wanmor

Best Collaboration

Lil Durk feat. J. Cole, “All My Life” – WINNER
Beyoncé feat. Kendrick Lamar, “America Has a Problem (Remix)”
Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice (With Aqua), “Barbie World”
Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion, “Bongos”
¥$, Ye, Ty Dolla $ign feat. Rich The Kid, Playboi Carti, “Carnival”
Lola Brooke feat. Latto & Yung Miami, “Don’t Play With It (Remix)”
Nicki Minaj feat. Lil Uzi Vert, “Everybody”
Usher, Summer Walker & 21 Savage, “Good Good”
Drake feat. Sexyy Red & SZA, “Rich Baby Daddy”

Best female hip-hop artist

Cardi B
Doja Cat
GloRilla
Ice Spice
Latto
Megan Thee Stallion
Nicki Minaj – WINNER
Sexyy Red

Best male hip-hop artist

21 Savage
Burna Boy
Drake
Future
Gunna
J. Cole
Kendrick Lamar – WINNER
Lil Wayne

Best new artist

41
4Batz
Ayra Starr
Bossman Dlow
Fridayy
October London
Sexyy Red
Tyla – WINNER

Video of the year

Doja Cat, “Agora Hills”
Lil Durk feat J. Cole, “All My Life”
Nicki Minaj & Ice Spice (With Aqua), “Barbie World”
Cardi B feat. Megan Thee Stallion, “Bongos”
Drake feat. J. Cole, “First Person Shooter”
Usher, Summer Walker & 21 Savage, “Good Good”
Victoria Monét, “On My Mama” – WINNER
Drake feat. Sexyy Red & SZA, “Rich Baby Daddy”

Video director of the year

Benny Boom
Child.
Cole Bennett – WINNER
Dave Meyers
Janelle Monáe & Alan Ferguson
Offset
Tems
Tyler, The Creator

Dr. Bobby Jones Best Gospel/Inspirational Award

Shirley Caesar, “Award All of the Glory”
Kirk Franklin, “All Things”
Halle Bailey, “Angel”
CeCe Winans, “Come Jesus Come”
Erica Campbell, Do You Believe in Love?”
Maverick City Music, Naomi Raine & Chandler Moore, “God Problems”
Tems, “Me & U” – WINNER
Kirk Franklin, “Try Love”

Viewer’s choice award

Doja Cat, “Agora Hills”
Lil Durk feat. J. Cole, “All My Life”
Gunna, “Fukumean”
Jack Harlow, “Lovin on Me”
Muni Long, “Made for Me”
Victoria Monét, “On My Mama”
Drake feat. Sexyy Red & SZA, “Rich Baby Daddy”
Chris Brown feat. Davido & Lojay, “Sensational”
Beyoncé, “Texas Hold ‘Em” – WINNER
Tyla, “Water”

Best International Act

Asake (Africa)
Aya Nakamura (France)
Ayra Starr (Africa)
Bk’ (Brazil)
Cleo Sol (UK)
Focalistic (Africa)
Karol Conká (Brazil)
Raye (UK)
Tiakola (France)
Tyla (Africa) – WINNER

Viewer’s choice: best new international act

Bellah (UK)
Cristale (UK)
Duquesa (Brazil)
Holly G (France)
Jungeli (France)
Makhadzi (Africa) – Winner
Oruam (Brazil)
Seyi Vibez (Africa)
Tyler Icu (Africa)

BET Her

Beyoncé, “16 Carriages”
Nicki Minaj feat. Tasha Cobbs Leonard, “Blessings”
Ayra Starr, “Commas”
Flo feat. Missy Elliott, “Fly Girl”
Megan Thee Stallion, “Hiss”
Victoria Monét, “On My Mama” – WINNER
SZA, “Saturn”
GloRilla, “Yeah Glo!”

Best movie

American Fiction
Bob Marley: One Love – WINNER
Renaissance: A Film by Beyoncé
Spider-Man: Across the Spider-Verse
The Book of Clarence
The Color Purple
The Equalizer 3
The Little Mermaid

Best actor

Anthony Mackie
Colman Domingo
Damson Idris
Denzel Washington – WINNER
Donald Glover
Idris Elba
Jeffrey Wright
Lakeith Stanfield

Best Actress

Angela Bassett
Ayo Edebiri
Coco Jones
Danielle Brooks
Fantasia
Halle Bailey
Issa Rae
Regina King – WINNER

YoungStars Award

Akira Akbar
Blue Ivy Carter – WINNER
Demi Singleton
Heiress Diana Harris
Jabria McCullum
Jalyn Hall
Leah Jeffries
Van Van

Sportswoman of the Year Award

A’ja Wilson
Angel Reese – WINNER
Coco Gauff
Flau’jae Johnson
Juju Watkins
Naomi Osaka
Sha’carri Richardson
Simone Biles

BET Lifetime Achievement Award – USher

Sportsman of the Year Award

Anthony Edwards
Gervonta Davis
Jalen Brunson – WINNER
Jalen Hurts
Kyrie Irving
Lebron James
Patrick Mahomes
Stephen Curry

Dr Disrespect via Twitter has explained the reasons behind his 2020 Twitch ban. Late last week allegations surrounding the beef were rumoured to be “inappropriate” messages to minors, which led to his permanent ban from Twitch.

Before his 2020 ban, Guy Beahm professionally known as Dr Disrespect, was one of the most followed streamers on Twitch and regarded by most as the ‘Face of Twitch.’ He had a multi-year contract with the Amazon-owned platform.

In a statement sent to Dexerto, Twitch said: “As is our process, we take appropriate action when we have evidence that a streamer has acted in violation of our Community Guidelines or Terms of Service. These apply to all streamers regardless of status or prominence in the community.”

Last week an ex-Twitch employee claimed that Doc was banned after being found messaging a minor through the Twitch whispers feature, but Dr Disrespect claimed “no wrongdoings” were found.

To clarify his last statement released on the 25th of June, Dr Disrespect admitted to having messaged a minor in 2017 which he claimed were just “casual, mutual conversations.”

“Were there twitch whisper messages with an individual minor back in 2017? The answer is yes. Were there real intentions behind these messages, the answer is absolutely not. These were casual, mutual conversations that sometimes leaned too much in the direction of being inappropriate, but nothing more. Nothing illegal happened, no pictures were shared, no crimes were committed, I never even met the individual.” [The statement was later edited]

“I should have never entertained these conversations to begin with. That’s on me. That’s on me as an adult, a husband and a father. It should have never happened. I get it. I’m not perfect and I’ll f**king own my shit. This was stupid,” he said regretting his actions.

On his June 24 stream, the streamer announced he is taking an indefinite break from streaming to be with family but made it known he isn’t retiring from streaming. The game studio, Midnight Society, has cut ties with Dr Disrespect.

Post by @streamdorm

View on Threads

Nollywood veteran and Ifa priest, Ifayemi Elebuibon, is calling for the adoption of traditional DNA testing to help curb the rise of paternity fraud in Nigeria.

Ifayemi, who recently discussed this with journalists at his home in Osogbo, Osun State, told journalists that the rejection of Yoruba traditional DNA testing played a factor in the rise of the paternity frauds we see today.

According to studies, Nigeria ranked second behind Jamaica in nations with the highest paternity fraud, as one in every four tested men is not the biological father of their child(ren). Many factors may play in this, including infidelity, child swaps in hospitals, and many more.

Many families may be unable to afford the cost of a deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA) test. Elebuibon is suggesting that traditional means could be an alternative for parties interested.

Elebuibon is confident that the Yoruba traditional system for DNA testing is a foolproof method to determine a child’s paternity.

He said, “Yoruba has traditional DNA, and it is very potent. They vary from one family or compound to another. We are having a high rate of cases of paternity fraud now because people of our race have decided to abandon what belongs to them and embrace two foreign religions…In Yoruba culture, even during childbirth, paternity of a baby can be determined. In my own compound those days, a new wife would take oath before the Ogun shrine to remain faithful to only her husband. Traditionally, there are several ways we can determine the paternity of a child. Those means are cheap and safe but our people are not interested in them. They are alternative available for those interested.”

The stars ascended the steps in their Vogue-approved best for the Met Gala dress code “A Garden in Time,” which was based on the Costume Institute exhibit’s theme, “Sleeping Beauties: Reawakening Fashion.” They’ve seen the exhibit, watched Ariana Grande perform, and possibly taken some forbidden bathroom selfies.

And while we have to assume they’re exhausted, there are afterparties to attend and change outfits for — in some cases, twice! We rounded up every afterparty outfit worth seeing on celebrities including Kendall Jenner, Shakira and Cardi B.

(Want to see the elaborate Met Gala looks they changed out of? You can view all 160+ looks from the red carpet here, or check out our list of 21 best dressed first.)

[Source: People]

Tourism is vital for all countries, contributing significantly to their economies through revenue generation, job creation, and infrastructure development. Here’s a detailed look at the top 10 countries that excel at making money from tourism.

1. Spain: Blessed with stunning beaches, historic cities like Madrid and Barcelona, and a vibrant cultural scene, Paris attracts tourists seeking sun, culture, and adventure, making it a major player in the global tourism industry. It is expected to earn a record $215.4 billion in revenue in 2024. 

2. United States: In terms of global comparison, the United States is projected to generate the second-highest revenue in the market, with a revenue of $198.70 billion in 2024. With diverse attractions ranging from vibrant cities like New York and Los Angeles to natural wonders such as the Ground Crayon and Yellowstone National Park, the United States remains a top destination for travelers worldwide.

3. China: According to projections, the market revenue is estimated to reach $184.50 billion by 2024 and grow annually at a rate of 6.29%, thereby resulting in a market volume of $235.50 billion by 2028. Boosting ancient landmarks like the Great Wall and modern marvels like Shanghai’s skyline, China’s tourism industry continues to skyrocket, fueled by its rich history, diverse landscape, and booming economy.

4. Germany: In Germany, the Travel & Tourism market is expected to witness a rise in revenue, with projections indicating $67.57 billion in 2024. Known for its efficient infrastructure, picturesque landscapes, and vibrant cities like Berlin and Munich, Germany attracts visitors with its blend of history, culture, and modernity, making it a key player in Europe’s tourism scene.

5. Japan: From the bustling streets of Tokyo to the serene landscapes of Koyta, Japan blends traditional culture with visitors globally, making it a top destination for cultural immersion and exploration. It is projected that by 2024, the travel and tourism industry in Japan will generate a revenue of $40.30 billion.

6. United Kingdom: By 2024, the United Kingdom’s Travel & Tourism market is expected to reach a revenue of $40.12 billion. From the historic streets of London to the rugged beauty of the Scottish Highlands, the United Kingdom offers a diverse range of attractions that cater to every traveller’s interest, ensuring it is placed among the top tourism earners.

7. Italy: Home to ironic sites like the Colosseum, the Vatican City, and the Picturesque Amali Coast, Italy’s allure lies in the blend of history, art, and cuisine that draws millions of visitors keen to explore its treasure. Italy’s tourism industry is expected to reach a valuation of $27.3 billion by 2024.

8. France: Renowned for its rich culture, exquisite cuisine, and ironic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Louvre Museum, France tops the list of countries profiting from tourism, Paris, the capital city, alone attracts millions of visitors each year. France is expected to see a rise in revenue in the Travel & Tourism market, with a projected revenue of $20.03 billion in 2024.

9. Mexico: Mexico’s tourism revenue for 2024 is forecast to increase by 19.22% and reach $19.23 billion. With its vibrant culture, ancient rules like Chichen Itza, and stunning beaches among the Riviera Maya, Mexico remains a popular destination for tourists seeking adventure, relaxation, and rich cultural experiences.

10. Thailand: Thailand has made a significant amount from tourism this year with foreign tourism generating revenue of 575 billion baht ($15.52 billion) in the first 4 months of 2024. Famous for its tropical beaches, ornate temples, and bustling markets, Thailand offers visitors a unique blend of natural beauty, cultural heritage, and warm hospitality, contributing significantly to its tourist revenue.

These countries stand out in the tourism industry due to their diverse attractions, rich cultural heritage, and robust travel facilities. Despite challenges such as geopolitical tension and natural disasters, they continue to thrive, welcoming millions of visitors each year and reaping the economic benefits of tourism.

In conclusion, tourism plays a critical role in the economic development of these 10 countries, driving growth, creating employment opportunities, and fostering cultural exchange on a global scale. As they continue to innovate and adapt to changing travel trends, they will likely maintain their positions as leaders in the tourism market for the coming year.

By: Boi Ruth Onyinye Oluwaseunfunmi

As we all know, Nigeria’s battle against corruption has been a long and yet unyielding journey since the very beginning. Different vices and methods has been employed by different government administrations to win the war against corruption and one of these ways includes the creation of the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC).

The Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC)

Established in 2003, the EFCC was created in response to the rampant corruption that plagued Nigeria’s political and economic landscape. The agency is tasked with investigating and prosecuting financial crimes offenders, the agency has gained prominence in the past years.

EFCC operates under the leadership of a chairman appointed by the President of Nigeria, with support from dedicated staff and investigators. Additionally, collaboration with other government agencies, such as the Independent Corrupt Practices Commission (ICPC), is crucial in ensuring effective enforcement of anti-corruption laws.

Challenges Faced by the EFCC

Despite its mandate, the EFCC faces numerous challenges in its fight against corruption.

CORRUPTION

Corruption in Nigeria is a big factor that has eaten into majority of the population. From the upper chamber of the country to the grassroots is rooted in corrupt practices. Even among the EFCC agency its self corruption exist.

On July 6, 2020, Magu, the acting chairman of the agency appointed by President Muhammadu Buhari was arrested by officers of the Department of State Services (DSS) and the Nigeria Police Force (NPF) and taken to the Presidential Villa where he was questioned on alleged corruption against him. He was detained and on July 7th was suspended from his position as chairman of the agency.

APPOINTMENT OF THE CHAIRMAN OF THE AGENCY

Another major reason I believe serve as a hindrance to the EFCC is the fact that the Chairman of the agency has to be appointed by the President of the Nation. Take for example, a corrupt President gains power into office, such a person when appointing the chairman for the agency will look for someone who will follow in his footsteps.

EFCC chairman Waziri was dismissed by former President Goodluck Jonathan on 23rd November 2011 and replaced him with Ibrahim Lamorde as Acting Chairman, who was confirmed on the 15th February 2012 by the Nigerian Senate.

When Goodluck Jonathan left office, Lamorde was sacked by President Muhammadu Buhari on November 9th, 2015, and replaced with Ibrahim Magu. But then, the Nigerian Senate refused to confirm Magu as chairman of the agency due to security reports by law enforcement agencies against him. It is a good thing that the Nigeria Senate is vetoed with the power to clear individuals appointed by the President, thereby reducing the chances of corrupt Presidents appointing corrupt chairman.

Other challenges includes; lengthy court proceedings and inadequate legislation, often hamper the agency’s ability to secure convictions. Furthermore, political interference and lack of sufficient resources pose significant obstacles to the EFCC’s operations.

"This is getting more serious" reactions as EFCC declares former governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Adoza Bello, Wanted. pic.twitter.com/3u7M1BnOiY

— Music on Streamdorm 🎧 (@Streamdorm) April 18, 2024

Success and Profile Cases by the EFCC

Over the years, the EFCC has investigated and prosecuted a multitude of high-profile corruption cases involving politicians, public officials, and business leaders.

The most recent of these cases is the arrest of Social Media personality Idris aka Bobrisky over Naira mutilation and abuse and was sentenced to 6 months in prison by the law court, Cubana Chief Priest over mutilation also and was later bailed on a 10 million naira charges. The agency has recently declared the Former Governor of Kogi State, Yahaya Bello as wanted for money laundering of over 80.2 Billion Naira.

All these shows the extent to which the agency in fighting corruption and other financial related crimes under the New President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

While the EFCC has achieved notable successes in recovering stolen assets and securing convictions, it has also faced criticism for its perceived inefficiencies and selective prosecution.

The 2024 and 10th editions of Forbes Africa’s annual 30 Under 30 list feature a well-diverse pool of African talents. The list contains some of the youngest and brightest in various fields, including entertainment, education, sports, technology, healthcare, art, and other industries.

On the list, we have talented Nigerians like the founder of Veekee James, Ruth Erikan James, singer-songwriter Adedamola Oyinlola Adefolahan (Fireboy DML), Super Eagles footballer Victor Osimhen, track and field athlete Tobi Amusan, and founder and CEO of Mainlogix Technology, Josiah Akinloye, amongst others.

This year’s edition theme is “Passion, Purpose, and A Decade of the 30 Under 30 List,” celebrating the passion, creativity, and impact of Africans globally.

According to Forbes, Africa’s influence globally is on the rise, with 1.45 billion people across 54 countries driving its economies, largely propelled by its youthful demographic. The United Nations reports that 70% of sub-Saharan Africa is under 30, and by 2050, over a third of the world’s youth will reside in Africa. Experts predict that the continent’s wealth lies in its young, predominantly female population, making them prime investment prospects for the future.

Nigerians featured on the list

1. Adedamola Oyinlola Adefolahan (Fireboy DML), 28, Nigeria
   Singer-songwriter
   Industry: Entertainment 
2. Victor Osimhen, 25, Nigeria
   Footballer and Striker for Super Eagles
   Industry: Sport (Football)
3. Tobi Amusan, 26, Nigeria
   Track and Field Athlete
   Industry: Sport-Athletics
4. Ruth Erikan James, 29, Nigeria
   Founder, Veekee James
   Industry: Fashion
5. Josiah Akinloye, 29, Nigeria
   Founder and CEO, Mainlogix Technology
   Industry: Automation and Technology

“For a decade, we have unpacked the unmistakable potential and story of Africa’s youth. And Forbes Africa’s 10th 30 Under 30 list too has ambition and adrenaline packed into this special issue. These purpose-minded 20-something achievers are on the way up, overcoming the odds in their quest to become tomorrow’s titans and billionaires, making a huge difference in the countries, companies, and communities they serve,” Forbes Africa, Managing Editor, Renuka Methil.

To get featured on the list, applications need to be submitted via official channels. Part of the rigorous reporting and vetting process also involved going through social media profiles, police clearance reports, reference letters from financial institutions, and testimonials from colleagues, collaborators, business partners, and employees of the short-listed nominees.

Background checks were conducted on potential candidates, which included reviewing documentation to ensure there are no criminal records, troubling lawsuits or bankruptcy, and/or allegations of crime, misconduct, sexual harassment, abuse, or fraud.

Imagine this, a working class Woman or man who is so diligent in his or her work, one day comes to work looking so sad and angry. There are so many factors but most of the time it’s a relationship problem.
An unhealthy relationship, affects other aspects of our life and it’s very important to be in and maintain a healthy relationship.
Relationship is a very important aspect of life, we all have different aspects of relationship whether it’s dating or friendship relationship. And maintaining a healthy relationship is very important for our overall health. Not just our health, a healthy relationship is important for our happiness and peace of mind. It’d important for other aspects of our lives and other relationships as well.

Ways to Maintain a Healthy Relationship

Communication:

Communication is a very important aspect of any relationship, especially if you want to maintain a healthy one. You cannot have a healthy relationship without an effective communication. Let’s imagine something else. A girl is mad that her boyfriend forgot her birthday day party, though it was wrong of him but if she told him, he’d feel very bad and make up for it, which will put a smile on her face. But if she decided to keep quiet she’d be angry and at a point it would affect their relationship. Communication is important, sitting down to discuss goals, to discuss plans and talk about what their partner did that annoyed them is a good way to maintain a healthy relationship. A healthy relationship needs effective communication for it to work.

Trust:

Love is very important for a healthy relationship but trust is something that will keep that relationship healthy and going. You need to trust your friends and they need to trust you too. You need to be able to be free with them and be honest with them only if they’re willing to be free with you and be honest as well. Honesty builds trust, if your partner knows the truth or your motive behind what you do, trust will be present. Lieing to your partner or friend is an easy way to break trust and love without trust is nothing. If you want to build trust in any relationship, make sure you’re honest. Another way to build trust in a relationship is to make sure you don’t pretend. Don’t pretend to be perfect when you’re not perfect. Don’t pretend to know book, if you don’t. Just be you around your partner. Let him know that you’re that crazy girl.

Love:

A healthy relationship needs effort and one can’t give that effort to someone they don’t like. If you enter a relationship with someone you don’t like, you won’t be interested in effective communication or trying to be you around the person. Don’t become friends with someone who you don’t like or don’t like vibing with. It will end up being an unhealthy relationship.

Respect:

Respecting your partner, friends or family members is very important to maintain a healthy relationship. You need to have mutual respect for the person you’re in a relationship with. How do you respect someone you’re in a relationship with? Just saying I respect him or her, is not enough. Respecting someone means; You understand the person’s boundaries. When she says I prefer you call before coming over, do well to call before coming over. If he says he doesn’t like when someone wears slippers to his room, as small as it is respect that.

Empathy:

try to understand the feelings and point of view of the person you’re in a relationship with, that’s a sign of respect. You need to understand that you cannot have the same mindset with the person, this shows you respect the person and still wants the relationship to work.

Quality Time:

In any aspect of a relationship, spending time with the person is a huge factor in making a relationship work. You can’t be in a healthy relationship with someone and you don’t go out with the person or do fun things with the person. Spending Quality time with the people you love, will help a lot in maintaining a healthy relationship.

Independence and interdependence:

Because you’re in a relationship with someone doesn’t mean you should loose yourself and who you are. A healthy relationship involves growing as an individual and also helping each other to grow. Don’t give up your goals and aspiration for someone. Be you and let who you are be what attracts the person. And grow together, help each other be the best version of themselves.

Deal with Personal Issues:

If you have attachment issues, deal with it before you enter any relationship so that it would be healthy and you won’t have regrets. If you have commitment or trust issues do the needful and deal with it. Don’t enter a relationship when you’re not mentally ready, if will lead to heartbreaks and regret.

Affection and Appreciation:

Always remember to appreciate your partners once In awhile. Remind them how special they are to you. Give them gifts and understand their love language. Do what makes them happy and that’s something that brings about a healthy relationship.

Forgiveness and Apologizing:

The thing is, sometimes we humans don’t realize that simply because you don’t see anything wrong with it, doesn’t mean that it didn’t hurt the other person. If you hurt someone you love, try and understand why it hurts the person and apologize for it. It might not be a big deal to you, but it hurt the person and because it hurt the person, apologize. And forgiveness is key too. Learn to forgive your partner or friend because everyone will hurt you, intentionally or not intentionally. So learn to move on from hurt. If you refuse to forgive a partner, then you’d always have lines of breakups because you find it hard to forgive, no one is perfect, not even you. In conclusion, maintaining a healthy relationship is work, so love the person to go through that work together. A healthy relationship makes one happy and in peace, so it’s worth fighting for.

By Favour Awana

Hard drugs have a very uncommon way of manipulating human behaviour, including digging up graves. Unfortunately, you heard that right. The government of Sierra Leone recently declared a state of emergency over the rising zombifying drug called kush.

Kush is a mixture of cannabis, fentanyl, tramadol, formaldehyde, and ground-down human bones. The use of the drug is rapidly increasing, not just in Sierra Leone but across West Africa as well, including Guinea and Liberia. Sierra Leone President Julius Maada has labelled the drug a “death trap.”

Despite its harm, including psychotic breaks or even death, its victims—young men and women—have become so addicted to the drug. Sights of unkept young adults with bruises and swollen feet are rapidly rising. Addicts of this drug are now desecrating corpses just for a puff, and who benefits from this? The suppliers.

Why human bones? The human bones in the mixture are theorised to contain the needed amount of sulphur. Others include cannabis, fentanyl, and tramadol, three of which are highly addictive, and formaldehyde, which can cause hallucinations. Human bones are ground and added to the mixture.

According to reports, Kush has reportedly resulted in the deaths of hundreds of young males and organ failure when induced. Hundreds more are admitted. The only psychiatric hospital in Sierra Leone, the Sierra Leone Psychiatric Hospital, has reported that from 2020 to 2023, there was a nearly 4,000% increase in admissions related to Kush, totalling 1,865 (BBC). “Psychologically, there is this is dependence- where the patient becomes dependent on the substance such that they cannot do anything without using the Kush. First thing in the morning they have to make sure they refill with the Kushand then later on as the day goes by, they continue the use,” Dr Jusu Mattia.

“Our country is currently faced with an existential threat due to the ravaging impact of drugs and substance abuse, particularly the devastating synthetic drug kush,” President Bio said. The country is alert for grave diggers.

Protecting people from this drug is the mission of Warri Boys Social and Welfare Society, which is launching a one billion naira appeal for fundraising to build a multipurpose complex in Warri and, among other things, fight drug abuse. Date: 27th, April, 2024