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New Book: “Women Unbound”

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Book Title: Women Unbound

Author: Udunma Ikoro

Publishers:  Communique Resource Hub.

Pages: 221

Reviewer: Emeaba Onuma Emeaba

Time there was when women were stampeded into remaining anonymous in plain sight. Somehow, the women chewed the inside of their lower lips, remained quiet, suppressed their emotions, and pretended not to exist. Everyone, including the chauvinistic cadre that concocted that faux-pas became the worse for it. Acceptance of that incongruity engendered unnecessary misunderstandings that resulted not only in the stifling of serious potentials, but also in the bringing about of nightmarish endings and unfulfilled promises for the significant other.  Up front, society lost the most capable, competent, and reliable co-worker; and everyone suffered, Udunma Ikoro seems to say in, “a woman is a natural influencer born with the capacity to lead and impact anyone and everything.”

The Intentional Woman by Ikoro—who brings to her subject a writer’s tenacity and a teacher’s propensity for moulding a classroom full of wide-eyed children into shape—is a generous, unsettling, and somewhat visionary work that resembles that of Dale Carnegie: a series of mini-lessons on the virtues encapsulated in the iconic “‘I can’ is the parent of ‘I did.’”

Ikoro, not only makes the book resound with instructional savoir-faire, but she also has assembled a large corpus of real-life anecdotes to back up her assertions. And, serving as a de-facto manifesto for women in general, (and men, if you want to know the truth), the word “book” does not sound right to describe it. The insight she has to offer in this excellent motivational book takes full advantage of the opportunities that Ikoro presents to the reader when she resorts to the use of the been-there-done-that class of people—some of them unnerving and disconcerting—who have had it rough but are able to forcefully, positively bounce back, in many respects.

Motivational authorities have talked themselves hoarse drumming it into us that we should overcome limiting factors against our upward mobility; to fight to bring our potentials to the fore. Sadly, that truism seems to be simply meant for the men, excluding the women in our society. The rest of us, inadvertently inveigled by generational gaffes, have buoyed the anomaly because it was so reassuringly convenient; and life goes on. Not anymore, says Udunma Ikoro, who has swung into guru territory, too. Becoming the latest in the ranks of motivational pundits like Oprah Winfrey, Tony Robbins and the good old Dale Carnegie, she has argued that the woman should not only think outside the box, but must also climb out of the box, in order to be able to do what she is created to do: be the best partner she is meant to be.

Pleasant, poised, empathetic, but this intricate book which resembles a medicinal concoction for what ails the woman of today, works on many other levels. She seems to observe her atmospheres’ world in a series of distinct, almost palpable imageries. It is suffused with a medley of literary language—from the past, from the bible, from glib anecdotes, through motivational patter, brief biographies, and on to first-person reflections.

In The Intentional Woman, Ikoro tells us, rather compellingly, that we may have measured accomplishments using different considerations and criteria, but that such success can only happen if certain of our women, some of whom are brilliance personified, bring to bear a willingness to discover those core latent talents simmering inside them. The book, which is dedicated to “every girl child, lady, woman who has desire to be more” maintains that we set aside our fears and take a leap of faith even if we have to defy certain “taboos” that tend to stultify our ability to go forth and conquer.

Ikoro argues that “In the journey of life, you must attain self-discovery; ascertain values in order to have a clearer view of your purpose in life.”  She offers a truck-load of riff on the things to do that she believes stand ready to nudge anyone who dares, along. She is at her most persuasive on the narrower motivational spiels like “In building your mind-set, stop the fear in you,”  and has dwelt, untiringly on definite themes, for example, “to be intentional is about being deliberate, working towards a purpose, being thoughtful in your choices or being proactive.”

Using real life (her life) scenarios, the book takes us through the necessary steps needed for women (and the rest of us) to unbridle our latent talents. She says we should unveil ourselves by discovering who we are; find our gifts to reveal our talents; forget whatever anyone says to the contrary of who we are; throw in some education that is at par with our self-development; and go out there to kick behinds as we claw ourselves up to a cloud nine position; which we deserve.

This book is packed. The writer Udunma Ikoro, currently the lead creative director, Communique Resource Hub, and Professional Communication Educational and Book Project Consultant, proposes we assume intentionality and not think of it as a “cliché,” but as “being purposeful in life, actions and words.” She tells appealing episodic stories, which serve to lucidly clarify multifaceted biblical allusions and anecdotes as they relate to the topic, and presents surprising perceptions into the nature of extraordinary performance: noting, for example, that profound successes are often driven by a spell of let-down and the encountering of hurdles along the way.

In eleven segments—instead of chapters—of elaborate prose, Ikoro takes an entirely different tactic to make her point. She insists that “…nobody owes me anything, nobody owes me my joy, my space, fulfilment, and anything.” Then backs that up, when she adds, “I owe myself my greatness.” In the process, she manages to write the book in such a way that it is difficult to be turned into a bouillon cube made of many ingredients. This is a tricky trapeze walk, but she is able to pull it off by weaving a motivational narrative that points to one thing: Women; go out there and get it—full stop.

Geared towards counselling, teaching, and straight up cautioning, this is a profoundly thought-provoking and significant book because Ikoro—the youngest motivational authority of our time—has performed a mystical showmanship on paper such that you could almost scratch-n-sniff the motivational frankness that is its strength. One leaves this book impressed with the way in which the author manages to haul examples and facts at the reader insisting they take the one step that would change their current ruts. The book is bound to entertain, even as it touches those hitherto untouchable topics that women are so pre-programmed to shy away from. Every girl child (nay, everybody) should read this book.

To obtain copies, email the author directly: udunmaikoro@gmail.com.

Emeaba, the author of “A Dictionary of Literature,” writes dime novels a la Onitsha Market Literature sub-genre.

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Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s Legacy and the Case for Regionalized Federalism in Contemporary Nigeria

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“We have won the civil war. Yes, indeed. But to win the war for peace, we must recognise the real enemies. Otherwise, all our efforts would be totally misdirected and dissipated. As far as I can understand, the aggressors against peace and stability in Nigeria are abject poverty, hunger, disease, squalor and ignorance. They are more devastating in their ravages, more insidious, more thorough, and more resistant in their operations than armed rebellion. They are the enemies which must now be crushed, and crushed ruthlessly” – *Chief Obafemi Awolowo*

Chief Obafemi Awolowo, a revered leader in Nigeria’s history, exemplified principles of progressive governance, economic empowerment, and social justice during his time. Imagining him as the president of Nigeria today prompts reflection on how his visionary leadership would shape sustainable solutions for the country’s challenges. One prominent lesson from Awolowo’s legacy is his advocacy for regionalized federalism, a concept that decentralizes power to the regions to promote equitable development and effective governance. As Nigeria grapples with pressing issues of national unity, economic growth, and social cohesion, the resurgence of regionalized federalism emerges as a compelling argument for fostering inclusive governance and addressing diverse societal needs.
These words of Chief Obafemi Awolowo remain as relevant today as they were when they were first spoken. To truly achieve lasting peace and stability in Nigeria, we must address the root causes of conflict and focus on eradicating poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance. These are the real enemies that threaten the well-being of our people and undermine our efforts for progress.
By prioritizing efforts to alleviate poverty, improve access to education and healthcare, and create opportunities for economic growth, we can build a more just and equitable society where all Nigerians can thrive. It is only by tackling these underlying issues that we can truly achieve a lasting peace that benefits all members of our society.
Let us heed the wisdom of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and work together to crush these enemies of peace and stability. Only then can we build a brighter future for generations to come.
In today’s digital age, the words of Chief Obafemi Awolowo resonate even more strongly as we grapple with new challenges and opportunities in our quest for peace and stability in a democratic society. The enemies of peace and stability that he identified – poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance – have taken on new forms and complexities in our increasingly interconnected world.
In the digital age, poverty is not just about lack of material resources but also about lack of access to digital technology and opportunities for economic advancement. The digital divide exacerbates inequalities and limits the ability of marginalized groups to fully participate in democratic processes. Addressing digital inclusion and ensuring equal access to technology is crucial for promoting peace and stability in a democracy.
Hunger and disease also remain pressing issues in a digital age where misinformation and disinformation can spread rapidly, affecting public health and exacerbating food insecurity. A lack of access to reliable information and healthcare services can undermine efforts to promote health and well-being, hindering democratic progress and stability.
Squalor, in the context of today’s digital age, can refer to the proliferation of online hate speech, cyberbullying, and other forms of online harassment that contribute to a toxic online environment. Addressing these issues is essential for fostering a culture of respect, tolerance, and inclusivity in a democratic society.
Ignorance, in the digital age, is not just about lack of education but also about the spread of misinformation and disinformation online. Promoting digital literacy and critical thinking skills is essential for safeguarding the integrity of democratic processes and countering the influence of false information and propaganda.
The principles espoused by Chief Obafemi Awolowo remain as relevant today as they were in his time.
In conclusion, the principles espoused by Chief Obafemi Awolowo remain as relevant today as they were in his time. To win in a democracy in the digital age, we must continue to prioritize efforts to address the root causes of conflict and inequality, including poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance. By embracing the opportunities of the digital age while also addressing its challenges, we can build a more peaceful, stable, and inclusive society for all.
Furthering, in today’s digital age, the issue of poverty has taken on new dimensions as technology plays an increasingly central role in shaping economic opportunities and social mobility. The digital divide, which refers to the gap between those who have access to technology and those who do not, exacerbates existing inequalities and limits the ability of marginalized groups to fully participate in democratic processes. Without access to digital tools and resources, individuals and communities are at a significant disadvantage in terms of accessing information, education, and economic opportunities. Addressing digital inclusion is crucial for promoting social equity, economic empowerment, and ultimately, peace and stability in a democracy.
Hunger and disease continue to be pressing issues in the digital age, with new challenges emerging in the form of online misinformation and disinformation. The rapid spread of false information online can have serious consequences for public health as well as exacerbate food insecurity and malnutrition. In a world where online platforms play a central role in shaping public discourse and health outcomes, efforts to combat misinformation and promote access to accurate, evidence-based information are essential for safeguarding public well-being and promoting peace and stability in society.
Squalor in the digital age encompasses a range of online behaviours that contribute to a toxic and polarized online environment. From cyberbullying to the spread of hate speech and disinformation, the digital space can be a breeding ground for hostility and division. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort to promote digital civility, respect, and responsible online behaviour. By fostering a culture of inclusivity and empathy in the digital realm, we can work towards creating a more harmonious and peaceful society both online and offline.
Ignorance in the digital age poses a unique challenge as the proliferation of misinformation and disinformation online can undermine the integrity of democratic processes and erode public trust in institutions. Promoting digital literacy and critical thinking skills is essential for equipping individuals with the tools they need to navigate an increasingly complex information landscape. By empowering individuals to discern fact from fiction and make informed decisions online, we can mitigate the spread of false information and uphold the principles of transparency, accountability, and truth in a democratic society.
Essentially, the principles articulated by Chief Obafemi Awolowo provide a timeless and invaluable framework for addressing the root causes of conflict and instability in the digital age. By acknowledging and confronting the challenges of poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance in today’s interconnected world, we can forge a path towards a more equitable, informed, and peaceful society. Embracing the transformative potential of technology while also acknowledging its pitfalls, we can harness the power of the digital age to foster a more inclusive and prosperous democracy for all.
Sustainingly, to develop sustainable solutions for addressing the complex challenges of poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance in the digital age, it is essential to adopt a holistic and multi-faceted approach that addresses the root causes of these issues. The following thought processes can guide the development of effective and lasting solutions:
1. Collaborative and Inclusive Problem-solving: Recognizing that no single entity or sector can address these challenges alone, it is crucial to foster collaboration and partnerships among governments, non-governmental organizations, businesses, and communities. By engaging diverse stakeholders in the problem-solving process, we can leverage collective expertise, resources, and perspectives to develop comprehensive and inclusive solutions.
2. Data-driven Decision-making: In the digital age, data plays a critical role in informing policy decisions and monitoring progress towards sustainable development goals. By collecting and analyzing relevant data on poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance, we can better understand the underlying causes of these issues and identify targeted interventions that are most effective in addressing them.
3. Technology and Innovation: Harnessing the power of technology and innovation can provide new opportunities for addressing long-standing challenges. From mobile applications that deliver healthcare services in remote areas to online education platforms that expand access to learning opportunities, technology can facilitate more efficient and scalable solutions for combating poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance.
4. Capacity-building and Empowerment: Empowering individuals and communities to take ownership of their own development is key to ensuring sustainable and lasting impact. By investing in education, skills training, and entrepreneurship programs, we can equip people with the tools they need to improve their livelihoods, access healthcare services, and participate meaningfully in democratic processes.
5. Monitoring and Evaluation: Regular monitoring and evaluation of interventions are crucial for measuring progress, identifying challenges, and adapting strategies as needed. By establishing robust monitoring and evaluation mechanisms, we can ensure that resources are effectively allocated, outcomes are achieved, and lessons learned are incorporated into future programming.
6. Long-term Vision and Commitment: Achieving sustainable solutions for addressing poverty, hunger, disease, squalor, and ignorance requires a long-term vision and commitment to positive change. By setting clear goals, timelines, and benchmarks for progress, we can maintain momentum, inspire collective action, and drive towards a more equitable and prosperous future for all.
By adopting a strategic and forward-thinking approach that integrates these thought processes into our development efforts, we can pave the way for sustainable solutions that address the root causes of conflict and instability in the digital age. Building on the wisdom of Chief Obafemi Awolowo and embracing the transformative potential of technology, we can work towards a more inclusive, resilient, and peaceful society for generations to come.
Nonetheless, if Chief Obafemi Awolowo were the president of Nigeria today, it is likely that he would prioritize policies and initiatives that promote national unity, economic development, and social welfare. As a visionary leader, he was known for his commitment to progressive governance, economic empowerment, and social justice.
One of the key lessons that can be drawn from Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s leadership style is his emphasis on regional development and decentralized governance. He championed the concept of regionalized federalism, which advocates for greater autonomy and decision-making power at the regional level. By devolving certain powers and resources to the regions, this approach aims to promote equitable development, local accountability, and effective service delivery.
In the current context of Nigeria, there is a growing argument for a return to regionalized federalism as a means to address the country’s diverse socio-economic challenges and foster greater political stability. By allowing the regions to have more control over their resources, governance structures, and development priorities, regionalized federalism can empower local communities, promote healthy competition among regions, and drive inclusive growth.
Furthermore, regionalized federalism can help to address longstanding issues of marginalization, inequality, and ethnic tensions by allowing each region to tailor its policies and programs to meet the specific needs of its population. This approach can foster a sense of ownership, accountability, and inclusivity among citizens, as they have a greater say in the decision-making processes that affect their lives.
In adopting regionalized federalism, Nigeria can draw inspiration from Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s legacy of visionary leadership, strategic planning, and commitment to social progress. By embracing this model of governance, the country can tap into the unique strengths and capabilities of its diverse regions, unlock their full potential, and build a more cohesive and prosperous nation for all.
In conclusion, Chief Obafemi Awolowo’s hypothetical presidency in contemporary Nigeria underscores the importance of embracing regionalized federalism as a viable path towards sustainable development and national unity. By drawing on Awolowo’s principles of progressive governance and decentralization, the country can chart a course towards empowering regions, fostering local accountability, and addressing deep-rooted challenges through tailored policies and programs. As Nigeria navigates complex socio-economic dynamics and calls for a return to regional autonomy amplify, the principles and lessons from Awolowo’s leadership provide valuable insights for shaping a more inclusive, responsive, and prosperous future for the nation. Embracing regionalized federalism stands as a beacon of hope for Nigeria’s journey towards holistic and sustainable solutions that benefit all citizens and regions alike.

♦ Professor Ojo Emmanuel Ademola is a Nigerian Professor of Cyber Security and Information Technology Management, and holds a Chartered Manager Status, and by extension, Chartered Fellow (CMgr FCMI) by the highly Reputable Royal Chartered Management Institute.

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Nigerian Appointed First Female Chancellor of the University of Birmingham

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Nigerian, Sandie Okoro OBE has been appointed by the University of  Birmingham as its new Chancellor. With her appointment, she becomes the first female to be appointed chancellor by the university since its establishment over 100 years ago.

Okoro, a lawyer and diversity expert is currently the Group General Counsel of Standard Chartered where she leads the Bank’s Legal, Group Corporate Secretariat, and Shared Investigative Services functions.

Okoro will succeed Lord Bilimoria of Chelse CBE who will step down after 10 years in the role on July 10.

Speaking on her appointment, she said:

I am truly honoured and delighted to be appointed Chancellor. It’s a fantastic opportunity for me to give a little something back to the amazing University that has given so very much to me and my family.

“The wonderful University of  Birmingham is the alma mater to three generations of the Okoros, my mum, me and my son. So my connection to it is very special indeed. I have followed the University’s outstanding progress very closely since my days there as a student on a full grant back in the 1980s – its dedication to impactful research, its focus on creating an inclusive environment for talented, minority students and educational excellence are themes very close to my heart.

Okoro, an alumna of the University of Birmingham is a graduate of Law and Politics qualifying as a barrister at the City, University of London. She has held roles as Head of Legal for Corporate Services at Schroders, Global General Counsel at Barings, and General Counsel for HSBC Global Asset Management. Okoro was also Senior Vice-President and General Counsel, and Vice-President for Compliance, for the World Bank Group.

She is a 2024 officer of the Order of the British Empire (OBE) and an Honorary Bencher of the Middle Temple.

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Black teen in Georgia awarded over $14m in scholarships, accepted at 231 colleges

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An 18-year-old low-income student has just defied the odds by achieving an extraordinary feat in her pursuit of higher education.

Madison Crowell, from Hinesville, Georgia secured her acceptance into an astounding 231 colleges and universities across the nation. She has also been awarded an impressive $14.7 million in scholarships to support her academic journey.

Crowell’s remarkable achievement is not only a testament to her academic prowess but also to her unwavering determination and resilience in the face of adversity.

Growing up in a low-income community, she explained she was driven by a desire to showcase the possibilities available to students like herself.

“I wanted to apply to as many schools as I did because I want to show the kids here in Liberty County that it’s possible to get accepted into schools […] that you think might be out of your reach but is definitely in reach,” she told Good Morning America.

Despite facing challenges along the way, Crowell remained steadfast in her pursuit of higher education. With the support of her parents, Sgt. 1st Class Delando Langley and Melissa Langley, she embarked on college tours and road trips from a young age, preparing herself for the journey ahead.

Now, as she prepares to embark on her college adventure, Crowell’s hard work and determination have paid off. She has chosen to attend High Point University in High Point, North Carolina, where she will pursue her academic aspirations under a full tuition scholarship.

In response to her incredible achievement, High Point University President Dr. Nido Qubein extended a warm welcome to Crowell, recognizing her potential to achieve greatness.

“We welcome you to our HPU family”, he said. “You’re going to do exceptional things right here at The Premier Life Skills University, where we call everybody to be extraordinary. The sky is not the limit […] and when you come here to High Point University, we know you’ll be a leader. We know you’ll make amazing things happen. We’re here to resource her, cheer you on and celebrate you victory.”

Despite her overwhelming number of acceptances, Cromwell revealed she hadn’t been accepted to other top schools and urged other students to persevere.

“I know what it’s like to be deferred from a dream school and you don’t know if you’re gonna get the chance to apply again or you’re not going to be accepted again,” she said. “I just want to make it known that nothing is impossible and that the sky is not the limit and that you want to keep pushing for greatness.”

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