Entertainment
ECOWAS Lauds Rivers’ Success In Hosting Pageant … Honours Alpha Blondy, Jimmy Cliff As Peace Ambassadors
Although the 2009 Miss ECOWAS peace Pageant has come and gone, the memories of that historic night at polo club premises in GRA axis of Port Harcourt last Sunday remain ever green in the minds of those who were opportuned to be there. Apart from being a night of beauty, glitz and razzmatazz, it was well attended as all West African nations under the umbrella of ECOWAS came together to show case our cultural heritage and beauty as well as to celebrate peace in diversity.
In his address at the beauty pageant, the President of ECOWAS Commission Dr. Mohammed Ibn Chambas noted that ECOWAS is not all about beauty, glitz and pageantry, but about peace, unity and togetherness of member states showcasing the culture and uniqueness of the states with many languages but one goal.
Dr. Chambas described Rivers State as a wonderful state, stressing “we want the world to know that with the present government, entertainment, tourism, youths and sports are the key to development.” He commended Governor Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi for his warm hospitality and successful hosting of the regional beauty pageant for the second time.
He said one of the objectives of the pageant is to ensure peace in diversity which is the only way to move the region forward and sustain ourselves in this period of global financial crisis. The President also advocated for a borderless West Africa where every West African will feel at home in any country they may be. Alpha Blondy and Jimmy Cliff who thrilled the over 3000 people in attendance with their hit songs of yester years were honoured as ECOWAS Peace Ambassadors for their promotion of peace and the African Culture through their songs. When it was time for 2 Face Idibia and Dare Art Alade to mount the stage, the crowd went wild with joy and excitement as they sang along with the music stars particularly 2 Face’s rendition of ‘my African queen.
Ghanaian cultural troop Wuta and Sherifa as well as little H, a 12 year old Nigerian music sensation also thrilled the audience with their captivating performances.
The masters of ceremony Yibo Koko from Nigeria and Bee Arthur from Ghana also did a wonderful job by adding fun and class to the event.
It was indeed a night to remember especially with a Nigerian, Miss Joy Obasi Ngozika winning the prestigious crown after defeating 22 other contestants from various West African countries.
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.
Entertainment
Monarch Pledges Good Governance, Team Spirit To His People
-
Oil & Energy4 days ago
Troops Recover N637m Worth Stolen Crude, Arrest 36 Suspects
-
World3 days ago
Breathtaking New Paintings Found At Ancient Roman City
-
Politics16 hours ago
Nigeria Not Ripe For Diaspora Voting -NBA Chieftain
-
Rivers11 hours ago
IYC Demands Apology Over Arrest Of Soboma Jackrich
-
Maritime4 days ago
Nigerdock Assures Host Communities On Robust Relationship
-
Sports4 days ago
Ghana Legend Names Okocha Africa’s Best
-
News3 days ago
NDLEA Recovers 900,000 Opioid Pills, 1,347.4kg In Seven States
-
News12 hours ago
Army Detains Two Soldiers Over Alleged Theft In Dangote Refinery