Entertainment
Ogbakor Ikwerre Celebrates Unique Culture, Tradition
The unique cultural heritage and ancient tradition of the Ikwerre ethnic nationality in Rivers State was recently showcased to the world amidst , fun, gliz and glamour at the 2020 edition of Ikwerre day celebration which attracted the who is who in Ikwerre land, including traditional rulers and other distinguished guests across the country.
The historic and memorable event which witnessed amazing cultural performances was held last Saturday, March 21st, 2020 at the Captain Elechi Amadi Polytechnic Rumuola, Port Harcourt, under the chairmanship of former Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Rivers State, Hon Frank A. Owhor.
The well attended event saw the parade of various colourful masquerades and cultural troupes, traditional dances, folklore, traditional wrestling contests as well as other backup from across the country including the cultural troupe from the Mzough U Tiv from Benue State as well as other side attractions.
In his address at the event that was graced by a humongus crowd, the president-general of Ogbakor Ikwerre world wide, Prof. Emenike Nyeche Wami said: “Ogbakor Ikwerre cultural organisation as the apexumbrella organisation of the Ikwerre ethnic nationality constitutionally instituted the annual Ikwerre Day celebration as an occasion for our people to remain ourselves who we are and to give the outside world a peep of what constitutes the inner most core of Ikwerre culture and personality.
“Ikwerre day therefore, is an institutionalised annual fiesta, a period of home coming, cultural renewal and reflection intra and inter ethnic strengthening of releationships with a view to sustaining our relevance in the comity of ethnic nationalities. It is essentially, a spectacular cultural convocation of Inde Iwhuru Oha (people of Ikwerre) by the Ikwerre and for the Ikwerre people in line with the spirit and letter of the constitution of Ogbakor Ikwerre.
“Ikwerre day seeks to showcase, preserve and enhance our cultural heritage, such as language, folklore, customs, agricultural engagements, arts and crafts, music and dancing, sports especially our highly cherished Egelege (wrestling) and so on!!
Major highlights of the event were confirmant of Ochi Oha Ikwerre XIII on Prof Augustin M. Onyeosu and his admission into this prestigious cultural class, following his meritorious service during his tenure dance as the president general of Ogbakor Ikwerre world wide from 2013 to December 2016.
Recognition of four monstrous sons and daughters of Ikwerre nation who have excelled, distinguished themselves and brought honour to the Ikwerre nation namely: Madam Edna C Nwofor, First Ikwerre female graduate, Chief Sir Mike Elechi, Chairman/CEO Vintage Farms and Products Ltd, Sir (Dr) Charles Wami, Chairman/CEO Charkins Maritime Academy and Miss Francisca Ijeoma Onuma first Ikwerre female pilot.
Awards were also given to the champions of the ‘Egelege’ wresting competition, they are the new (Isiburu wresting champion) of Ikwerre land, Mr Increase Assor from Esilara branch, while Emeka Omodu from Opa branch and Morrison Obi from Kio branch who took 2nd and third positions respectively as well as prizes to participated teams etc.
By: Jacob Obinna
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.
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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