The House of Igbinedion today officially launched The Chronicles of a Legend, a commemorative book detailing the extraordinary life and legacy of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion, the Esama of the Benin Kingdom. The high-profile ceremony, held in Benin City, brought together an impressive lineup of dignitaries and national figures from across Nigeria.

Among those in attendance were former Senate President Bukola Saraki, former Delta State Governor James Ibori, Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi, and the Emir of Kano, Aminu Ado-Bayero, as well as representatives of the federal and Edo State governments.

The publication honours Igbinedion’s trailblazing contributions to Nigeria’s development, particularly in education, transport, banking, and entrepreneurship. A respected pioneer in these sectors, the Esama’s ventures—such as the establishment of Igbinedion University, Okada, and the country’s first private airline—remain milestones in Nigeria’s private sector history.

In his remarks, Peter Obi called for deeper national appreciation of Igbinedion’s impact.

“We live in a country that often fails to celebrate its true heroes. Chief Igbinedion built the first private university, pioneered private airline operations, and was among the first recipients of a banking license. These are legacies that deserve more than honorary titles—they require national support,” Obi stated.

He went on to advocate for a shift in the criteria for national awards, urging that honours such as GCON be directed toward individuals with proven contributions to enterprise and job creation.

“The people we should be celebrating are those building the nation through productivity, not just us politicians,” Obi added, pledging an annual donation to the Esama’s endowment fund for the next decade.

James Ibori, who presented the book, also made a generous pledge of ₦100 million to Igbinedion University, dedicating ₦50 million to establish an endowed chair in Economics and the other ₦50 million to institutional support.

“He gave us education at all levels—nursery to university. What more can one man do for humanity?” Ibori said.

The event also featured remarks from George Akume, representing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, and Dennis Idahosa, representing Governor Godwin Obaseki, both reaffirming Igbinedion’s place as a national figure whose legacy transcends state boundaries.

The Chronicles of a Legend serves not only as a biography but as an enduring symbol of visionary leadership, philanthropy, and private sector innovation. It celebrates a life dedicated to nation-building and sets a benchmark for what it means to lead with purpose and impact.

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Addis Ababa, Ethiopia 19-year-old Hasset Dereje has been crowned Miss World Africa and first runner-up at the Miss World 2025 pageant held in Hyderabad, India.

Dereje is the first Ethiopian to reach this level in over two decades.

Dereje, who is currently studying chemical engineering at Addis Ababa Science and Technology University, showcased her intelligence, talent, and beauty throughout the competition.

19-Year-Old Ethiopia’s Hasset Dereje Crowned Miss World Africa

Miss Ethiopia Hasset Dereje just made history. Crowned 1st Runner-Up at Miss World 2025 — and now holds the title of Miss World Africa. A proud moment for Ethiopia, and for the entire continent.

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Her “Beauty With a Purpose” project, which focused on mental health awareness and education in rural Ethiopia, impressed the judges and highlighted her commitment to making a positive impact.

As Miss World Africa, Dereje has vowed to use her platform to promote a new narrative for Africa, highlighting the continent’s rich culture, innovation, and resilience. She aims to shift global perceptions and showcase Africa’s strength and beauty.

Dereje’s win has sparked national pride in Ethiopia, with many celebrating her achievement on social media.

Her message after the competition, in which she thanked her family, aunt, and supporters, has been widely shared and admired.

**JCI Abuja Unity and DO TAKE ACTION Partner to Empower Children with Special Needs through MOA Inclusive Spelling Bee Competition and Art Exhibition**

Junior Chamber International, JCI Abuja Unity is set to host the Morufat Olabisi Aniso Inclusive Spelling Bee Competition, a groundbreaking event that puts ability over disability.

The competition, scheduled for May 30, 2025, at Novare Central Mall, Wuse Zone 5, Abuja, will feature 19 children with special needs showcasing their spelling skills and confidence.

The event in partnership with DO TAKE ACTION aims to promote inclusion and celebrate the talents of children with disabilities, often left behind in academic competitions.

Over 60 participants, volunteers, parents, and partners are expected to attend and cheer on the young contestants.

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The competition is named in honor of JCI Senator Morufat Olabisi Aniso, the charter president of JCI Abuja Unity, a champion of community inclusion and empowerment. Her legacy serves as a symbol of excellence, empathy, and empowerment.

The event starts at 10:00 AM on May 30, 2025.

By hosting this competition, JCI Abuja Unity seeks to spell hope, inclusion, and a better tomorrow for children with special needs.

Junior Chamber International (JCI) is a global organization of young active citizens who are committed to creating positive change in their communities.

Afrobeats superstar Wizkid’s highly anticipated “Morayo Live Tour” in North America has hit a snag, with four out of 11 scheduled dates reportedly cancelled.

The affected venues include State Farm Arena in Atlanta, Madison Square Garden (MSG) in New York, Scotia Bank Arena in Canada, and CFG Bank Arena in Maryland.

Despite the setback, the tour is still set to proceed in European cities, including Germany, Netherlands, and France. Fans are eagerly awaiting updates on the status of the North American leg, which is slated to kick off soon.

May 2 was a day of fun and excitement as the former First Lady of Kogi, Rashida Bello marked her 40th birthday in the presence of family members, friends and numerous people whose lives she has touched.

The celebration in Abuja saw guests give beautiful testimonies and speak glowingly of the kindhearted nature of the celebrant.

They attested to how she has been a mother figure to several persons, touching their lives in many positive ways, and lifting them to actualize their full potential.

The celebrant who was full of thanks said it feels so wonderful to mark 40th birthday with amazing and incredible family and friend, adding that her heart overflows with joy and excitement.

“”Today, with a grateful heart, I thank God for the journey of life, the lessons, the laughter, and even the tears.

“The love and support has been great treasures. Thank you all for being the vibrant hues in life’s journey. Here we are, marking four decades!”, she said.

The former First Lady has been lauded for her efforts in initiating programmes that will impact the lives of less privileged persons in her community by offering them scholarships, opportunities to learn trade and engage in meaningful means of livelihood.

Often seen as humble, accommodating and caring, she is very people in the ranks of young people and women whose lives she has greatly impacted.

The colourful birthday was an opportunity to shower her with gifts and kind words which she said she so much cherishes.

See the stunning beauty of an Ex-First Lady who turns 40yrs