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Dignitaries at the Book Launch of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion Dignitaries at the Book Launch of Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion

Events

‘The Chronicles of a Legend’: Igbinedion Book Launch Attracts National Leaders

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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 Esama of the Benin Kingdom, Chief Gabriel Osawaru Igbinedion

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.

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“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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Entertainment

Seyi Vibez Wows 55,000 Fans in Epic Lagos Stadium Spectacle

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Seyi Vibez Wows 55,000 Fans in Epic Lagos Stadium Spectacle

Nigerian street-pop sensation Seyi Vibez cemented his superstar status on Saturday, August 23, 2025, as he headlined a sold-out concert at Tafawa Balewa Square, Lagos, thrilling more than 55,000 fans in attendance.

The landmark show, staged in celebration of his 1 billion Spotify streams milestone, featured a 44-foot-high, 360-degree stage design the first of its kind in Nigeria giving fans an immersive experience from every angle.

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Seyi Vibez powered through an electrifying setlist of his chart-topping hits, including “Shaolin,” “Chance (Na Ham),” and “Different Pattern,” with fans echoing every lyric in unison.

The night reached fever pitch when rap legend Olamide Baddo made a surprise appearance, marking his first-ever stadium performance, sending the crowd into a frenzy.

Fans and industry watchers have hailed the event as a historic moment in Nigerian music, blending innovation, street authenticity, and global-scale production to spotlight Lagos as a hub of African pop culture.

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Enugu State

Obasanjo, Malema, over 20,000 Lawyers Converge on Enugu for 2025 NBA Conference

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Prof. Chidiebere Onyia

 

… Enugu is set, home of hospitality, love, peace – NBA President, Osigwe

.. Gov Mbah prepared Enugu ahead – SSG, Onyia

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Enugu, the capital of the old Eastern Region, is a beehive of activities as former President Olusegun Obasanjo, firebrand South African politician, Julius Malema, and over 20,000 lawyers converge for the 2025 Annual General Conference (AGC) of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), which formally opens on Sunday.

Earlier on Saturday, NBA President, Mazi Afam Osigwe, led thousands of lawyers in a health walk across major roads in the capital city, as more lawyers and guests continued to pour into the historic city.

The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Chidiebere Onyia, assured participants of a memorable experience, noting that Governor Peter Mbah had long prepared the state for large events like the NBA’s AGC.

Speaking to newsmen, Osigwe, who relished the thrilling moments already being experienced in Enugu, said the city was a befitting venue for the theme of the conference, “Stand Out, Stand Tall.”

“Enugu is the capital of the South East region and also the home of hospitality, beauty, and peace. That was why we chose Enugu State to host our conference after moving from Port Harcourt.

“So, we are here in Enugu to enjoy the best that the people have to offer and also have a conversation about building Nigeria and making it an economic giant in Africa. Enugu is set, we are so excited.

“Our keynote speaker, Julius Malema, is on the ground in Lagos and will touch down here tomorrow (Sunday). Chief Olusegun Obasanjo, the former president who will chair the opening ceremony, will also be on the ground tomorrow.

“We are all set, we are so excited. We are going to make this a never-to-be-forgotten experience, the type that will make you want to come back every time for a conference in Enugu,” he told reporters.

Also speaking to journalists, Prof. Onyia said the government of Dr. Peter Mbah had strategically prepared Enugu to host conferences like that of the NBA and many others.

“The Enugu State Government under Dr. Peter Mbah, in its design and thinking around tourism, hospitality, and economic growth, had already factored in most of what you are seeing in preparation right now.

“Even without the NBA’s plan to come, we had already started planning what would happen if the NBA came here, if the Nigerian Society of Engineers came here, or others,” he stated.

He recalled: “Not too long ago, Enugu Air was commissioned; not too long ago, our 100 CNG buses and five modern transport terminals were commissioned. The reconstructed and revamped Hotel Presidential was also unveiled, just to name a few. We want to ensure that when people come here, they move around easily, feel safe, and even love to live here. We are grateful to the NBA for choosing Enugu and believe that they will have a memorable experience during their stay.”

Meanwhile, one of the lawyers already in the state, Barr. Favour Abraham from Minna, Niger State, said she was looking forward with excitement to a memorable experience in Enugu.

“This is my second time in Enugu. I came here for the NBA conference in 2005. So, it has been 20 years. Today, it is a beautiful city. At least from the airport, we had Enugu State CNG buses actually waiting for us. The people here are hospitable. I can say Igbo people are very warm and welcoming. Enugu has changed, and it is a beautiful city.

“So, we are here to explore, attend our conference, gain more skills and knowledge, and then enjoy Enugu to the fullest. We have beautiful things like okpa, isiewu, abacha and more. At least we are coming from the North, and we would love to explore the city,” she added.

Another first-time visitor, Daisy Ovrawah from Delta State, said she was “expecting something totally different.”

“I like the airport, the town, and the CNG bus that brought us from the airport to the International Conference Centre. It was very convenient. I love the ICC. This is very beautiful. I am impressed; I like what I am seeing,” she said.

Barr. Godswill Onyegbu, a participant from Abuja, said he was looking forward to “a very highly coordinated conference.”

“We just got to the conference and the NBA bus brought us to the venue. I commend the governor for the CNG bus. Also, on our way, I could see that Enugu was very clean,” he said.

Hon. Munirat Suleiman, Magistrate of the Customary Court of Appeal, Abuja, praised the registration process as seamless.

“Having attended several NBA conferences that had a lot of glitches, with problems collecting materials and registering, I am impressed that this Enugu experience has been stress-free. So far, so good, and I am enjoying the beautiful city of Enugu, the Coal City,” she said.

Highness Rufus Olarewaju Ajayi from Ekiti, who was in Enugu in 2001 for the Oputa Panel, said: “Since I came here last night, I think I am highly impressed by what I have seen so far.”

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Events

‎Made In Abuja Creative and Entertainment Industry Conference and Award MACEICA 2025 Rescheduled to October 24–25

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‎The Made In Abuja Creative and Entertainment Industry Conference and Award MACEICA 2025, 2nd Edition, originally scheduled for October 10–11, 2025, has been rescheduled to October 24–25, 2025, at the Ballroom CBD, Abuja, Nigeria.

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This change ensures optimal planning and participation, allowing us to deliver a world-class event that amplifies Abuja’s $14.82 billion creative economy potential. 

‎Endorsed by the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC), MACEICA 2025, themed “Decoding Abuja’s Creative and Entertainment Ecosystem; Trends, Opportunities, and Challenges,” will unite 2000–4000 creatives, industry leaders, and policymakers.

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MIA

Featuring the Industry Conference, Fashion Runway, Creative Women Fireside, Made In Abuja Awards, and Business Pitching Competition (₦500,000 top prize), the event fosters dialogue, recognition, and investment. With free registration at miaaward.ng, MACEICA ensures inclusivity for youth (70% of attendees, aged 18–35) and women (50%), supported by our partners. 

‎The new dates allow for enhanced programming, including potential appearances by icons like of the Industry. The Business Pitching Competition deadline is extended to September 30, 2025, giving entrepreneurs more time to submit innovative ideas. 

‎“We’re thrilled to reschedule MACEICA 2025 to October 24–25 to ensure a transformative experience,” said Gabriel Ubochi, Head of MACEICA 2025 Organizing Team. “This change strengthens our commitment to empowering Abuja’s creatives and fostering 2.7 million jobs.” 

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‎Join the Movement!

‎Apply: Join our team and be part of something amazing!

‎Tickets: Get yours now for an unforgettable fashion experience!

‎Collaborate: Let’s work together to create something new and exciting!

‎Showcase: Spot on- Exhibition Stand -Display your brand logo on our runway and reach a wider audience!

‎Join us to shape Abuja’s creative future! Register for free at miaawaed.ng, follow #MACEICA2025 on social media for updates. 

‎Contact: 
‎Gabriel Ubochi, Head, MACEICA 2025 Organizing Team 
‎info@miaaward.ng, madeinabujainfo@gmail.com | +234 7031 511 503 
‎miaaward.ng | @maceica2025 

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Events

Ethiopian Teenager Hasset Dereje Crowned Miss World Africa

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Hasset Dereje Crowned Miss World Africa
Hasset Dereje Crowned Miss World Africa

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.

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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.

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.


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Abuja

JCI Set To Host Inclusive Spelling Bee Competition to Empower Children with Special Needs in Abuja

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The Judges during JCI Abuja Unit’s Morufatu Olabisi Aniso (MOA) Spelling Bee Competition, 26, June 2024
The Judges during JCI Abuja Unit’s Morufatu Olabisi Aniso (MOA) Spelling Bee Competition, 26, June 2024

**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.

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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.

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