Journalists Donate Sanitary Items to 50 School Girls

  ...advocate against SGBV

Priscilla Akpanettot

A group of Journalists in Akwa Ibom State were part of advocates joining the global campaign against Sexual and Gender based Violence.

The group known as The Pen Girls visited Methodist Girls Secondary School, Utu/Ikpe (jointly owned by Essien Udim and Ikot Ekpene Local Government Areas) on Thursday, December 7, 2023, being the 13th day of the global advocacy.

Speaking at the visit, leader of the Pen Girls, Comrade Priscilla Akpanettot explained that the advocacy was necessary to raise awareness on the spate of violence perpetrated against women and girls by those who should protect them. 

copies of the VAAP Law and Training Manual on GBV for Schools

She reminded the school girls of their dreams and career prospects, and charged them to guard those ambitions tenaciously by protecting their bodies from defilers and reporting any threat to life to relevant authorities.

Corroborating Akpanettot’s position, Comrade Mary Ekere urged the girls to break the culture of silence if and when molested or threatened. She told them that that the dangers of a closed mouth could include depression, mental illness, emotional withdrawal, loss of concentration and eventual death. She then listed a number of contacts the girls could call in cases of emergency, while assuring them of a swift response.

Speaking on the various forms of gender-based violence, Comrade Ekemini Akpan pointed at a number of offences committed against women, such as rape, genital mutilation, incest and the likes. She exposed the school girls to the ways in which the violations can occur, and advised them to be vigilant and wise with those they share the same physical space with.

Leader of the Pen Girls, Comrade Priscilla Akpanettot

She however warned them to desist from indecent dressing, stressing that like uncovered food, an uncovered body attracts flies.  

Lastly, Comrade Amadie Udoakpan told the girls of the Laws jurisdicting gender-based violence. “The fine for rape is 14 years in prison. Genital mutilation is 4 years imprisonment with a fine of N200,000. Stalking is 2 years in prison and a fine of N500,000, so do not keep quiet and allow the culprit go scot-free. Report them to the authorities and protect your right to a bright promising future”, she admonished.

Copies of the Simplified VAPP Law, Referral Pathway booklets and GBV training manual were given to the School for the girls’ use, while 50 bag packs containing sanitary items were distributed to the girls.

Comrade Akpanettot presenting a copy of the VAAP Law to the Principal, Mrs. Affiong Inua

Responding to the gesture, the visibly elated Principal, Mrs. Affiong Inua commended the Pen Girls for bringing the advocacy to her school. She remarked that it has been ages the School had such visits and requested for subsequent visits. She also promised to ensure that what was taught the girls and contents of the educational materials will be incorporated into their academics.

Earlier in her address of welcome, she informed that Methodist Girls Secondary School founded in 1956 by the Women Fellowship of Methodist Church Nigeria, Ikot Ekpene; was established to groom the girl-child beyond the widely held belief back then that a woman’s place lies in the kitchen.

“The School has produced many prominent women who have proven that there’s no profession a woman cannot attempt”. She therefore called on members of the public make the School their choice, saying it is open to girls from any religion and denomination.

The Head Girl giving a vote of thanks

The Head Girl in her vote of thanks prayed God to bless The Pen Girls, and assured that they will uphold what they have been taught.

The 16 Days advocacy against SGBV which began on November 25, 2023 and ended on Sunday, December 10, 2023 was themed “Unite! Invest to Prevent Gender Based Violence Against Women and Girls.”

Deputy Governor for NUJ Federated Chapel Symposium

The Deputy Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Senator  Akon Eyakenyi, PhD is set to join the Chairman Comrade Nsibiet John and members of the Federated Chapel on the symposium day of the Chapel's 2023 week.

Dr. Akon Eyakenyi is billed to declare the event open.

The Chairman of the Central Planning Committee Ekomobong Peter who disclosed this to newsmen said, with the confirmation of attendance of the number 2 Citizen of the State, the Chapel week for 2023 can best be described as the gathering of intellectual stars.

The event which will hold on Friday 10th November, 2023 at the NUJ Press Centre shall begin at 10:00am and will be Chaired by Rep. Martins Esin who represents Oron Federal Constituency at the Green Chambers of the National Assembly.

The event which has as its theme, Navigating the Socio Economic Challenges of Post Subsidy Era in Akwa Ibom State shall be dissected by a set of six analysts including Dr. Victor Ekpenyong, founder of Kenyon International West Africa Limited, Kings Udoidua National PRO of PENGASAN, Mrs Funmi Idongesit- Nkanga Wife of Former Military Administrator of Akwa Ibom State, Odiko MacDon, Police PRO Akwa Ibom State, Cletus Ukpong- Regional Editor of Premium Times and Hanson Johnson founder of StartInnovation  Hub Nigeria Limited shall be moderated by Otobong Billy a seasoned broadcaster and journalist per excellence.

The Chapel invites Comrade Amos Etuk Chairman NUJ Akwa Ibom State Council, leaders of the Union and the public to attend.

Federated Chapel Donates Sanitary Equipment to AKSEPWMA

 

...Laud Agency on committed dedication to Waste Evacuation

Priscilla Akpanettot

The most vibrant Chapel in the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Akwa Ibom State Council, has donated sanitary equipment to the Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency.

Federated Chapel on Saturday, October 28, 2023, made the donation to the Chairman of the Agency, Obong Prince Ikim, who was supervising the monthly sanitation exercise at Nnung Oku junction, in Ibesikpo-Asutan.

Presenting the equipment, the Chairman of the Chapel's 2023 Press Week Committee, Comrade Ekomobong Peter lauded the Agency for being committed to its objective of sanitizing the State, and enjoined members of the public to support their activities.

"This is one Agency that doesn't need much introduction because of the role they play in environmental sustainability practices", he said. 

"Federated Chapel has a duty to collaborate with this Agency hence our support". 

"I challenge everyone to appreciate the objective of this Agency and contribute where necessary in ensuring that Akwa Ibom is not just a destination but a destination with a review of being clean, healthy and sustainable", he appealed.

Responding, Obong Prince Ikim commended the Chapel for identifying with the Agency. He  called on environmentalists, corporate bodies and public spirited individuals to tow the line of the Chapel, saying that that the task of keeping the environment clean is a collective one. 

Items donated to the Agency were spades, safety boots and safety gloves which were immediately put to use.

The presentation of equipment was a feature of the Federated Chapel's 2023 Press Week which holds from Monday 6th to Sunday 12th of November, 2023.

The event will feature a visit to the Correctional Centre on Monday,a tour of facilities within the State on Tuesday, a Symposium on Friday, a football Match between the Chapel and College of Personal Aides to Governor Umo Eno (COPA) on Saturday and will culminate in a Thanksgiving Service on Sunday.

Members of the Press and public are invited to be part of the Week.

NUJ Receives New COOPA Exco, says Traditional, Digital Journalists must Synergise for Development

 

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Akwa Ibom State Council, on Wednesday, played host to the leadership of the Conference of Online Publishers in Akwa Ibom State (COOPA), led by the Chancellor, Mr. Utitofon Ukpong.

Chairman of the Union, Comrade Amos Etuk, who received the new COOPA Executive at the NUJ Secretariat in Uyo, congratulated members of the organisation on their successful 2023 Conference/Election held recently in Eket.

Flanked by the State Working Committee of NUJ, Etuk while acknowledging the dominance of the new media, expressed the Union's readiness to partner with COOPA and quelled insinuations of a cold war between the NUJ and online publishers in the state.

"There was a time when the traditional media used to feel threatened about the dominance of the social media, but we had this Conference four years ago in Abeokuta where we started creating awareness that rather than have a division against the social media, let's embrace it and also encourage our members to be strategic in having a strong online presence."

"Today, I am excited that we have a lot of NUJ members who have blogs and are active too on the social media. We don't know what it will be in the next ten years, but we try to encourage ourselves that today, the social media has the space", he said.

"Be reassured that COOPA and NUJ will be partners. We have never been rivals or seen ourselves as enemies. We just needed to streamline a lot of things for us to have that synergy. Now that the synergy has come and the NUJ Constitution has recognised Online Publishers, there is need for us to work hand-in-hand for the growth of this noble and well-respected profession", he said.

Comrade Etuk urged the new COOPA Chancellor to prioritise the training of members and particularly saluted the ingenuity of the immediate-past Chancellor, Comrade Ifreke Nseowo who he noted led the group to limelight.

"The same hand of fellowship that we gave to the immediate past Chancellor, Ifreke Nseowo, is the same hand of fellowship that we'll give to you. We are even giving you stronger because we want you to succeed."

"Your responsibility is that you have to move COOPA out of Lagos and out of Nigeria. You have to start looking at the West African hubs and engage with colleagues from other sub-regions on how you can develop yourselves. Wherever you feel NUJ can give you that support, I want to tell you that we're always ready at every point to support", he added.

Earlier, the Chancellor of COOPA, Mr. Utitofon Ukpong, appealed for a cordial working relationship between the NUJ and COOPA, especially,  in the area of capacity development as well as defence of members against intimidation or harassment in the course of their official duties.

Ukpong further appreciated the Union for its support over the years and made a case for the restoration of the 'Online Publisher of the Year Award' in the NUJ Press Week Awards, to give a sense of belonging to some Journalists registered with both organisations.

Prayers were offered for the success of the new COOPA Executive.

African Entrepreneurs are beating the Innovation Pathway - Capital Luxury Group CEO

 

……splashes $20,000 for Becoming  Pitch Deck Challenge 

Africa has seen a surge in entrepreneurial activities in recent years, with a wave of innovators and visionaries rising up to tackle challenges and create sustainable solutions. These African entrepreneurs are not only making a name for themselves but are also setting an example for others to follow.

One area where African entrepreneurs are excelling is in the technology sector. They are leveraging technology to develop innovative solutions that address the unique challenges faced by the continent. For example, in Kenya, M-Pesa revolutionized mobile banking and digital payments, allowing millions of people who previously had no access to formal banking services to send and receive money securely and efficiently. This innovation has since spread to other parts of Africa, improving financial inclusion and boosting economic growth.

Another sector where African entrepreneurs are making waves is agriculture. Africa has a rich agricultural heritage, but it has historically been plagued by issues such as insufficient access to markets, inadequate infrastructure, and climate change. However, entrepreneurs are using technology and innovative approaches to transform the sector. For instance, Farmcrowdy, a Nigerian startup, connects farmers with investors who provide them with the necessary resources to increase their productivity. These resources include funding, training, and access to markets. This model not only boosts agricultural productivity but also provides investors with a return on their investment.

Energy is another area where African entrepreneurs are driving innovation. Many parts of the continent still lack access to reliable and affordable energy sources. However, entrepreneurs are finding creative ways to address this challenge. For example, Solar Sister, a social enterprise operating in several African countries, trains and supports women entrepreneurs to sell affordable and clean solar lighting products in their communities. This not only provides communities with access to clean energy but also empowers women economically.

Furthermore, African entrepreneurs are also leading the way in sectors such as healthcare, education, and e-commerce. They are leveraging technology and local knowledge to develop solutions that meet the specific needs of African consumers. This not only drives economic growth and job creation but also improves the quality of life for millions of people across the continent.

Capital Luxury Group, a leading transit, logistics, real estate, auto and music company has been unveiled as the headline sponsor of Hajem Becoming Series Pitch deck competition by the duo of William and Meflyn AnwanA  currently being deployed  in Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda, Egypt and South Africa on the www.becomingseries.ng online and offline platforms. 

The company is noted for such social impact projects and initiatives aimed at touching the lives of people and creating positive social change.

According to Mr Edidiong Udoidiong the Ceo of Capital Luxury Group, “This is a good time to encourage the entrepreneurial spirit of young Africans as our continent is at economic crossroads. Our young entrepreneurs are going to be the ones that will beat the path to prosperity and we must help them. I can’t wait to see the innovative ideas that will be pitched.

The first phase of the pitch deck competition runs till 30th  October 2023 after which the second phase kicks in where selected entrepreneurs would pitch their business ideas to Angel investors and venture capitalists in virtual and physical sessions.

During the Pitch Deck competition, young African entrepreneurs stand a chance of winning cash prizes, training facilitation for business funding, seed funds , business linkages etc . Capital Luxury Group is in pole position as it is splashing $20,000 in training facilitation and business funding.

Undoubtedly, Capital Luxury Global Resources, a multifaceted and prestige company with a commitment to providing unlimited luxury products and services is driving a new narrative in the business ecosystem in Africa.

Capital Luxury is committed to the concept of social impact for societal development and human index raise as they wholeheartedly embrace the conscientious responsibility in human capital development by partnering with educational institutions, non-profits, governments, etc in training and implementing development programs, thereby ensuring that individuals have access to career opportunities, training facilitation and business linkages to further position their businesses  etc.

 Their focus on nurturing talent and potentials strengthens the foundation for societal advancement and core functionalities targeted at emphasizing and uplifting marginalized communities to empowering individuals.

Social impact goes beyond monetary gains. It encompasses the positive changes in communities and individuals' lives that result from targeted initiatives. Capital Luxury recognizes the significance of social impact in uplifting communities, empowering individuals, youths , women and creating a more equitable society. 

African entrepreneurs are blazing a trail of innovation and demonstrating their potential to create lasting impact. They are leveraging technology, adopting innovative business models, and tackling pressing challenges to create solutions that are transforming their communities and industries. With the right support and conducive business environment, African entrepreneurs have the potential to continue driving innovation and contributing to the continent's sustainable development.

In today's world, organizations are not just expected to be profit-driven entities; they are also seen as agents of change and drivers of social impact. Their commitment to driving social impact serves as a catalyst for societal advancement tells a story.One such organization, Capital Luxury has emerged as a leader in integrating social impact as a core functionality in their operations.

NGO Unveils Jackfruit Value Chain

 

...Seeks Govt. Support/Sponsorship

Priscilla Akpanettot

A Non-governmental Organization has unveiled Jackfruit's value chain products to encourage the consumption and usage of the fruit by persons of all ages. In the Value Chain are seedling, fruits, nuts, roots, chips, smoothie juice, Jackvita (Swallow), flour and the Jack supplement.

The NGO, named WINCO (Women in Nature Conservation) is an indigenous women-led organisation dedicated to environmental conservation  regeneration, restoration, Agro-forestry renewable epergy, capacity building and mentoring  of future conservation leaders.

According to its Chief Executive Officer, Mrs. Emem Umoh who spoke at the maiden exhibition of the Jackfruit on Thursday, October 12, 2023; the NGO deemed it timely and necessary to organize the first ever exhibition of Jackfruit value chain products to showcase to Akwa Ibomites, Nigerians  and Africans its untapped potentials.

She described Jackfruit (Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam) as a widely cultivated fruit in tropical and sub-tropical areas worldwide, with a characteristic flavor, delightful taste and highly versatile function ranging from food and medicine to the provision of several value-added products. 

"In spite of the many benefits the plant offers, Jackfruit is underused, undervalued and underutilized. It has not been sufficiently incorporated in the general food system, partly because of gaps in processing, distribution and knowledge about utilization methods and nutritional and nutraceutical value, and no other organization in Africa and within Nigeria is adding value to Jackfruit", she lamented.

Briefing members of the Press on the fruit's potentials, the Jackfruit Fair convener listed 10 health benefits of the fruit to include:  boosting the immune system, protection against cancer, aiding healthy digestion, maintenance of a healthy eye and skin, lowering blood pressure, boosting energy, treatment of asthma, prevention of anaemia, strengthening of the bones as well as the maintenance of a healthy thyroid.

"Jackfruit is an excellent source of vitamin C, a powerful nutrient which helps protect against viral and bacterial infections. Vitamin C helps to boost immune system by supporting the white blood cells function. One cup of jackfruit can supply the body with a very good amount of this powerful antioxidant".

"In addition to containing vitamin C, Jackfruit is also rich in phytonutrients, such as lignans, isoflavones and saponins, which are have anti-cancer and anti-aging properties. These phytonutrients may help eliminate cancer-causing free radicals from the body and slow the degeneration of cells that can lead to degenerative diseases".

"Jackfruit is also known to contain anti-ulcer properties which help cure ulcers and digestive disorders. In addition, the present of high fiber in the jackfruit prevents constipation and helps in smooth bowel movements. These fibers also offer protection against colon mucous membrane by removing the carcinogenic chemicals from the large intestine (colon)".

"Jackfruit contains vitamin A, a powerful nutrient which is known to maintain a healthy eye and skin. It also helps prevent vision-related problems such as macular degeneration and night blindness".

"The potassium contained in jackfruit has been found to be helpful in lowering blood pressure and thus reducing the risk of heart attack as well as stroke".

"Jackfruit is considered as an energy boosting fruit due to the presence of simple sugars like fructose and sucrose which give you an almost immediate energy boost. Although jackfruit is an energy boosting fruit, it contains no saturated fats or cholesterol, making it one of the healthy fruits to savor".

"The root of jackfruit has been found useful in helping those who suffer from asthma. To treat this condition, you need to boil the jackfruit root and drink it. Alternatively, you may use the extract of jackfruit root orally to treat asthma".

"The iron in jackfruit helps to prevent anemia and also helps in proper blood circulation in the body".

"Jackfruit is rich in magnesium, a nutrient which is important in the absorption of calcium and work with calcium to help strengthen the bone and prevent bone related disorders such as osteoporosis".

"Copper plays an important role in the thyroid metabolism, especially in hormone production and absorption. Also, copper is required for the synthesis of phospholipids, which are needed for the stimulation of TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone). Therefore, correct levels are vital to prevent thyroid problems, and jackfruit is loaded with this important micromineral", she explained.

"Jackfruit is also rich in important nutrient like Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Calcium, Potassium, Iron, Thiamin, Riboflavin, Niacin, Magnesium and many other nutrients", she added.

"When the Jackfruit is opened, you will find the bright yellow pods (when ripe) which can be eaten raw or cooked. When unripe its flesh is green, and it can be made into a delicious vegetable dish", she disclosed. 

Regretting that the fruit production and value addition are relatively under-developed despite the fruit tree’s availability and high yield potential, high nutritional value, nutraceutical and techno-functional properties, Mrs. Umoh stated that the Fair

was the ideal forum to promote aggressive development of Jackfruit plantations locally and regionally, saying it would provide ecosystem services, promote sustainable livelihoods, provide employment, enhance food security and build climate resilience. 

"This exhibition will serve as a platform to engage, educate, train, empower, and provide sustainable livelihood options to Akwa Ibom people, Nigerians and Africans with comprehensive insight into the potentials and versatility of Jackfruit",  she informed.

On their own, the CEO alongside her team has trained eighty four (84) women from three (3) communities in Essien Udim Local Government Area where she comes from, and  inaugurated a 200-hectare plantation of Jackfruit trees, in collaboration with the Community Heads, as part of efforts to enhance livelihood and build resilience.

She therefore called on African leaders, policy makers, financiers, indigenous leaders, women leaders, practitioners and the private sector to support the innovation. 

Meanwhile, the Jackfruit campaigner has called on the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, Governor Umo Eno to adopt Jackfruit plantation development as part of the ARISE strategic action plan. 

She explained that the Governor's involvement in the project would go a long way in enhancing his agricultural development plans in the rural area, and donated 500 seedlings of the fruit as takeoff for any private or Government establishment who would key into Jackfruit farming.

"As an NGO, we are contributing our quota to the development of of our dear state by providing this platform where women and  young people could acquire some skills that could make them self-reliant. That's why we are trying to build cottage industries in one of the villages in the state. To achieve this we need industrial dryer and cutting machines and these are the areas we will need the government and other spirited individuals to come in to assist and provide some level of support to help us achieve these dream", she canvassed.

The Jackfruit Fair was graced by Prince Ukpong Akpabio, represented by Lady Imelda Otong; the Commissioner for Environment and Mineral Resources, represented by Barr. Iquo Abia; State Comptroller of the Federal Ministry of Environment, Dr. Ntoide; Director, Climate Change of the State Ministry of Environment, Mrs. Ini Umoh and a representative of FeyRep, Mrs. Aniefiok Jackson.

For Sponsorship, Partnership and Patronage on any of the value chain, Mrs. Emem Umoh can be reached via: 08060564026

AKHA Clerk Endorses 2023 NAWOJ National Conference

 ...Says it will contribute to Quality Legislative Reportages

Mary Ekere

The Clerk of the Akwa Ibom State House of Assembly, Mrs Nsikakabasi Orok has endorsed the 2023 National Conference of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists, NAWOJ billed for November, 2023 at the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja

The Clerk who received some Executive and members of the Association in her office, Assembly Complex today, Thursday said participation at the event and knowledge to be gathered, especially by Legislative Reporters will impact on the quality of legislative reportages to be churned out thereafter.

"I applaud NAWOJ for organising the National Conference and members of the State Council for considering to attend Abuja Conference which will add to their wealth of knowledge and in turn, impact on the quality of reportages that will be churned out about the Legislature.

"I have heard so much about NAWOJ and known it for a long time right from my school days. I am happy with NAWOJ activities and especially, as you have chosen to celebrate yourselves this period.

"My doors are always open to you and I will support you as much as I can in your activities", Mrs Nsikakabasi Orok said.

The Clerk had also appreciated Mercy Obot -a member of NAWOJ writing for the Crystal Express for listing her as one of the 36 Amazons during the symbolic celebration of the State's Creation Anniversary. 

Speaking earlier, Chairman of NAWOJ, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Nsikak Okon said the familiarisation visit was necessary to "seek collaboration between the Clerk and NAWOJ in order to foster the continuous growth of the society.

"NAWOJ is made up of Women Journalists from various media outfits who, aside from writing compelling stories and informing the public also project and advocate for women, girls and the less privileged in the society. We also task ourselves to give back to the society. So far, we have organised several advocacies and sensitisation programmes for girls, boys and the society as a whole".

The NAWOJ Chairman had also intimated the Clerk of the Association's event for December, 2023 and the National Delegates Conference slated for November, 2023 at Abuja and sought sponsorships for members especially, Legislative Reporters reporting the Assembly.

In attendance at the courtesy visit, the Deputy Clerk, Mr had acknowledged the activities of the Journalists by escalating the programmes of the House positively to a wider audience simultaneously, causing the House to be heard and seen. He solicited for more as they journey forward.