Entertainment
Housing Experts Decry Labour Cost
Experts in the housing sector have expressed concern over the rising cost of labour and the dearth of artisans in Nigeria. A cross section of the experts told our correspondent in Lagos that the scarcity had become a national problem which required the attention of the federal and state governments. Mr Femi Olomola, a former chairman of Nigerian Institute of Town Planners (NITP) in Lagos, said that good artisans were few in the country. He said that the rising cost of labour was worrisome, adding that one was not even sure of getting quality work after paying highly for services. “The dearth of manpower in the housing sector is a big problem in Nigeria. We do not have good carpenters, electricians, masons, bricklayers and even labourers. “This has assumed a national problem that requires government’s attention,’’ he said. According to him, associations in the construction industry cannot do much about the situation because they cannot influence the school system. Mr Femi Shodunke, Vice President of the Nigerian Institute of Architects (NIA) in Lagos, noted that charges for labour were not regulated and so the charges varied and were always on the high side. He said that the cost of labour currently varied between N1,500 and N2,000 per day compared to N500 and N600 in the past. “This also depends on how one source the labour. As of now, one bargains on ability to pay,’’ he said. Chief Charles Adebiyi, the Managing Director, Charles Adebiyi and Company a firm of estate surveyors and valuers, said that the dearth of artisans needed urgent attention by the government. He said that good artisans were aging as many of them were in their 60s while young people were not available to replace them. Adebiyi said that the situation had resulted to the closure of the Federal Ministry of Works training schools and non-functional technical schools to train technicians and artisans. According to him, the federal and state governments need to resuscitate the training schools and hand them over to private individuals to manage. Adebiyi said the rising cost of labour was due to the economic situation in the country. “There is inflation; prices of basic necessities of life are on the increase, including house rents. “The artisans have to charge to survive but whether they do a good job to justify the payment is another thing altogether,” he said.
Entertainment
Stephanie Linus, First Black Recipient Of Lennox K. Black Prize
The Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine is a prestigious accolade awarded by Thomas Jefferson University, recognising outstanding individuals.
The actress was honoured with the Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine by Thomas Jefferson University in America in recognition of her outstanding contributions to social activism and impact through her work.
This remarkable achievement, they said, highlights her dedication to societal well-being and marks her as the first Black recipient of this distinguished award.
The Tide Entertainment reports that the Lennox K. Black International Prize for Excellence in Medicine is a prestigious accolade awarded by Thomas Jefferson University, recognising individuals who have made significant contributions to the medical field, promoting scientific discovery and advancements.
Named after Lennox K. Black, a Canadian manufacturing executive known for his philanthropic efforts and service on various boards, including Thomas Jefferson University, the prize celebrates excellence in medical innovation and global contribution to health and medicine.
The actress is renowned for her activism and impactful work in areas concerning women’s health and rights, including her efforts to combat issues like fistula and gender-based violence.
According to the award organisers she has been instrumental in bringing about social change through her films and campaigns. They added that her work extends beyond borders, affecting lives and policies internationally, embodying the spirit of the Lennox K. Black International Prize.
On receiving the award, Stephanie expressed her gratitude and reaffirmed her commitment to using her platform for social good.
“This recognition goes beyond me; it is for all the women and girls fighting for a healthier, safer world. It amplifies our message and our work. It strengthens my resolve to continue advocating for gender equality, social justice, and improved maternal and reproductive health in Africa,” she said
Susan Aldunge, Interim President of Thomas Jefferson University, admired the actress, saying, ‘‘Your ability to educate while humbly addressing the cultural obstacles impeding progress for young women is commendable. Your intelligent, personal take on the necessary human rights changes has deeply impacted all lucky to encounter you. Congratulations once more on this well-deserved award and the acknowledgement of your efforts.’”
Ms Aldunge further said that Thomas Jefferson University, a leader in medical education and research, hosts the award to underscore its mission of improving lives through innovation in health care.
‘‘The university is proud to honour Stephanie Linus, whose work aligns with Jefferson’s values of creativity, collaboration, and compassion in pursuing excellence in medicine and beyond.
“Awarding the Lennox K. Black International Prize to Stephanie Linus celebrates her achievements and signals a broader recognition of the importance of social activism in medicine and health,” she added.
“Her pioneering efforts continue to inspire and effect change, paving the way for a healthier, more equitable world’’.
Stephanie, who was named Chairperson of the Nigerian Official Selection Committee (NOSC) for the Best International Feature Film (IFF) category of the Oscars in August 2023, is best known for her 2015 advocacy movie ‘Dry’, which tells the story of a 13-year-old girl whose parents marry her off to a 60-year-old man, with devastating consequences.
Entertainment
‘I’ll Continue To Ask For My Balance’ – Phyna reacts.
Ilebaye’s revelation came just after Phyna had publicly called out the organizers for withholding some of her prizes.
Phyna, who revealed this to Newsmen insinuated that Ilebaye broke the gender code by announcing that she got her full prize money.
She also stressed that she would continue to demand for her balance, stating that she worked hard for the money during the show’s 72-day duration.
“I believe I should at least get what I worked so hard for 72 days. You all suddenly remembered your alert screenshots and IG Live………… Common……one among others is 1BTC which is over 80m in today’s market.
“To those who got their money in full
I’m happy for you. As a poor man’s child, let me ask for my money and other items remaining.,” She added.
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