Opinion

A Toast To Constance Saronwiyo At 75

Published

12 years ago

March 19, 2014

The story of Dr Constance
M’Maneh Sira Saronwiyo at seventy five is a tale worth telling because of its intrinsic historical, motivating and developmental values. It is indeed, the moving account of a prime mover in the educational enterprise, an outstanding teacher/lecturer, an administrator par excellence, a promoter of science education, a nation-builder, selfless philanthropist, a social mobiliser and above all an “excellent pathfinder” of the “League of Women First” in Ogoni and Rivers State.
As Carr correctly contends in his book, What is History? Published in 1961, the role of great man (woman) in history should not be underestimated or denied.
Born on the 9th March 1937 at Bien Gwara in Babbe Clan of Khana local government area of Rivers State, to chief Hon . fihto M.A. Saronwiyo, first Ogoni legislator to Eastern House of Assembly and Sylvana Korneh Saronwinyo, she is a crown Princess as her grand father was the first Gbenemene of Babbe clan. A proud mother of four boys (though the third one died at the age of 24 in 1997) and four grand children was married to Late Dr. George Azubuike Wigwe of Umule, Aba. But she lacked the muscles to fight against the “Sirah Culture” imposed on her by, the custom of Ogoni. Her parents protested and cornpelled her to observe it by dropping her husband’s name and adopt her maiden name.
The young Constance was attended several primary schools, from 1946 to 1952. She also attended Archdeacon Crowther Memorial Girls School Elelenwo (1953-1957), Nigerian College of Arts, Science and Technology, Enugu (1958- 1961); Fourah Bay College, Freetown, Sierra Leone (affiliated to University of Durham, England, U.K) (1962-1966), College of Medicine, University of Benin 1975-1977, capping her academic exploit with a Ph.D in Chemical Pathology from University of Ife (Now Obafemi Awolowo University) in 1981.
That Dr. Constance M.S. Saronwiyo rose to be a reputable achiever” which was -very rare in her days especially as a woman is not surprising. Preponderance of evidence indicate that she was not only a high-flier who led her class mates throughout the period of her search for the “golden fleece”.
Hence, the White missionary teachers’ scholarships for her secondary and tertiary education as it was clear that she was not a gift to be thrown away on the flimsy ground of culture. It would be recalled that it was the Ogoni culture during the days of Constance not to train girl child beyond primary school. She triumphantly emerged on the Educational ladder as the first Ogoni girl to attend secondary school in 1953 and the first Ogoni female graduate in 1966.
Dr Constance M.S. Saronwiyo, determined with the zeal and zest to meaningfully contribute to the advancement of mankind, started her eventful work career in 1958 as a teacher in Primary School. She also taught In Anglican Girls’ School, Ovom, Aba as a Science teacher till the outbreak of the. Nigerian. Civil War (1967- 1970) and the Birabi Memorial Grammar School (B.MG.S) Bori after the Nigerian Civil War to 1971. In 1971, she was appointed the foundation principal of the First Girls’ Secondary School in Ogoni land, Marian High School, Bane. She also served in the then Rivers State College of Science and Technology as a foundation Chemistry lecturer. She later picked up an appointment with the University of Ife (now Obafemi Awolowo University) Medical School to teach Anatomy.
In these capacities, she left an enviable track record as a thorugh and competent teacher/lecturer, remarkable administrator and an astute, exemplary and fine researcher. For instance, a s pioneer woman science teacher east of the Niger, she established science laboratories in Post Primary Schools of then Eastern Region. Even as a foundation Principal of the First Girls’ school in Ogoni, she devoted her energies to the growth of women’s education in Ogoni in particular and Rivers State in general.
Due to her leadership acumen, she was entrusted with numerous positions of trust and responsibility in several emerging institutions across the new state. For example, she was appointed in 1971 to serve as a member in the Emeritus led first Board of 1972.
Again, when the first Argungu Festival was held in then Sakata State and the First Arts Culture Festival was held in then Kaduna State in 1972, Dr. Constance was appointed by the Military Governor of Rivers State, Alfred Papapreye Diete-Spiff (28 May 1967- July 1975), to’ lead the state contingents. Rivers State came first. As a result of this uncommon feat she has raked into her kitty, she was again relied upon to represent Rivers State in the National Council for Arts and Culture which was later called the Committee for Nigeria’s participation in the famous FESTAC ‘77. She was the head of the Popular Dressing Committee for three years, she masterfully and artistically crafted the Nigerian dressing akin to the popular Ogoni Bogo-koo art and Nigeria clinched the first prize of gong (now Gold Medal) in the festival.
Her legacies as a university don are also worthwhile and worthy of emulation. She made ground breaking researches and have them published in the Tropical Medicinal Journal, a well celebrated scholarly Science Journal to deepen the frontier of knowledge. Such prominent scholarly works include, “Contraceptive values of Indigenous Plants”, “Indigenous Herbs in Breast Cancer control”.
Owing to her exceptional performance and a landmark role in human capacity building, Late Chief (Senator) Melford Obiene Okilo upon assuming office on 1st October, 1979 appointed her a special duties commissioner in charge of Higher Education, Science and Technology, scholarship and Women Affairs from 1979 to 1982 and later given the portfolio of Economic Development and Planning, a position she held until .the Military seized power on 31st December, 1983. Even when the appointment coincided with her travelling abroad for her fellowship, the humble, unassuming and fine scholar accepted the appointment. She, therefore, have a place in history as the first female to be appointed into the exalted office of Commissioner in Rivers State (both old and new).
We must note that she convinced the governor: on the urgent need to upgrade the College of Arts and Science to a University status and the Rivers State College of Education to the status of a degree awarding institution. The college of Arts and Science was upgraded and named University of Science and Technology, the Premier University of Science and Technology in Nigeria.
Likewise, the Rivers State College of Education became a degree awarding institution (affiliated to the Premier University in Nigeria, University of Ibadan). All these took place during her tenure.
It also has to be noted that she used her revered position of Commissioner of Economic Development and Planning which oversees labour and employment in the State to better the lot of women.
It is worthy to add that in order to compliment government’s efforts and her desire to impact positively on humanity, she established the first private school in Ogoni land in 1980. The School, Tuanu Daycare Centre, situated at Bori, no doubt contributed hugely to the educational and man power development of Ogoni in particular and Rivers State in general.
As recognition of her star and pioneering roles, Constance Saronwiyo was honoured by the late King Mark Tsaro Igbara with the prestigious chieftaincy title of Tuago Pya Neewa_(meaning First Eagle Lady) in 1982. She truly demystified the saying that “women’s education ends in the kitchen” and proved beyond all reasonable doubt that “when you educate a woman, you educate the nation”.
The life of the widely travelled Tuago Pya Neewa at Seventy Five has been a packed full one. She has played different institutional roles in the society leading largely to human capacity development, enlightenment, and liberation of all mankind. She had served the Federal Government on Committees of Experts for National/Economy /Planning (1981-1983) the National Council on statistics and Rivers State Elders Council. She is presently a member of the University’s 11th Governing Council.
A selfless philanthropist and great humanist, Sira SAronyiwo has brought light, hoe and succor into the darkest homes today through a private scholarships scheme floated to assist the downtrodden in the society. Empowerment of Rivers women through co-operative societies and Micro Finance Agencies.
She has also served on Diocesan Boards and represented several Dioceses as General Synod delegates of church of Nigeria Anglican Communion 1991-2003. Thus, we cannot afford to deny her a place of honour in history or”Hall of Fame”. But to celebrate and appreciate her for her sterling leadership qualities especially now that there are many leaders but practically too little leadership to show.
On this beautiful note we join her these of her beloved family friends, well wishers and the good people of Rivers State to felicitate with this rare icon and great achiever of our times as she clocks 75.
N-Ue teaches History at the Ignatius Ajuru University of Education, Port Harcourt.

Samuel Uebari N-Ue

Opinion

Beyond Physical Intimacy In Relationship

Published

3 weeks ago

June 17, 2026

The Tide

Quote:”Love is not sustained by sharing the same bed or displaying affection in public; it is preserved by the daily investment of trust, understanding, empathy, and meaningful conversations. Two people can be physically close yet emotionally distant, because lasting relationships are built not merely on intimacy, but on the consistent nurturing of hearts that remain genuinely connected.”

In an age where relationships are often measured by appearances, social media posts, and outward displays of affection, many couples are discovering a painful truth: physical closeness does not always translate into emotional connection. Two people can share the same bed, hold hands in public, and even maintain a seemingly happy home, yet remain strangers to each other’s deepest thoughts, fears, dreams, and struggles. This reality is captured in the thought-provoking message that emotional intimacy goes far beyond physical intimacy. While physical attraction may ignite a relationship, emotional connection is what sustains it. When emotional bonds weaken, relationships begin to suffer quietly, often long before any visible signs of trouble emerge.

One of the greatest misconceptions about love is the belief that affection alone is enough to keep a relationship healthy. In reality, genuine love requires much more than romantic gestures and physical presence. It requires understanding, communication, trust, empathy, and the willingness to be vulnerable with one another. Without these elements, couples may coexist rather than truly connect. Many relationships today are experiencing a silent crisis. Couples are spending more time together physically but less time engaging meaningfully. Busy schedules, work pressures, financial challenges, digital distractions, and personal ambitions have reduced many conversations to routine exchanges about bills, children, responsibilities, and daily survival. The deeper conversations that nurture emotional intimacy are gradually disappearing.

As a result, many partners feel unseen, unheard, and misunderstood. They may be present in the relationship physically, but emotionally they feel isolated. This emotional distance often creates frustration, resentment, and loneliness. Ironically, a person can feel more alone in a relationship lacking emotional connection than when they are physically alone. The danger of emotional disconnection is that it rarely announces itself loudly. Unlike dramatic conflicts or public scandals, it develops gradually. It starts when couples stop sharing their feelings openly. It grows when assumptions replace communication. It deepens when one partner feels consistently ignored, dismissed, or taken for granted. Over time, the relationship loses its warmth and vitality.This explains why some marriages and relationships that appear perfect from the outside eventually collapse unexpectedly.

Observers are often shocked because they only saw the physical togetherness, not the emotional distance that had been growing for years beneath the surface. Relationships do not usually break down overnight; they deteriorate through the accumulation of unresolved emotional gaps. Building emotional intimacy, therefore, requires deliberate effort. It is not a one-time achievement but a daily commitment. Emotional connection is built through consistent acts of attention, kindness, and understanding. It develops when partners genuinely listen to each other without judgment. It grows when people feel safe enough to express their fears, disappointments, and aspirations without fear of criticism or rejection. Trust plays a crucial role in this process. Emotional intimacy flourishes in an environment where honesty is valued and confidentiality is respected. When trust is broken, emotional walls quickly rise.

Rebuilding those walls requires patience, sincerity, and a willingness to heal together. Another important ingredient is empathy. Every individual wants to feel understood. Sometimes partners do not necessarily need solutions to their problems; they simply need someone who listens and acknowledges their feelings. A relationship becomes stronger when both individuals strive to understand each other’s perspectives rather than merely defend their own positions. Quality time is equally important. In a world dominated by smartphones and endless digital distractions, couples must intentionally create moments of genuine interaction. Simple activities such as sharing a meal, taking a walk, discussing personal goals, or praying together can strengthen emotional bonds significantly.

These moments communicate an important message: “You matter to me.” Respect also forms the foundation of emotional closeness. Partners who consistently speak respectfully to each other, even during disagreements, create a healthier environment for intimacy to thrive. Emotional connection cannot flourish where there is constant criticism, ridicule, or contempt. Perhaps the most important lesson is that emotional intimacy is not built by grand gestures alone. It is cultivated through small, consistent actions repeated over time. A thoughtful conversation, a sincere apology, a word of encouragement, or a genuine expression of appreciation can have a profound impact on the health of a relationship. Ultimately, the strength of any relationship lies not merely in physical proximity but in emotional accessibility. The question is not whether two people occupy the same space, but whether they truly know and understand each other.

Lasting love is sustained when hearts remain connected even amid life’s challenges. As society continues to grapple with increasing relationship difficulties, couples must remember that emotional intimacy is not optional; it is essential. Physical attraction may bring people together, but emotional connection keeps them together. It is built daily through communication, trust, empathy, respect, and intentional effort. When emotional intimacy is nurtured, relationships become more resilient, fulfilling, and meaningful. And when two hearts remain genuinely connected, love does not merely survive—it flourishes

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi

Opinion

Yahoo Culture And Nigeria’s Moral Fabric

Published

3 weeks ago

June 17, 2026

The Tide

Quote “A society that celebrates wealth without questioning its source gradually breeds a generation that despises hard work, glorifies fraud, and ultimately destroys itself from within.”

Nigeria’s battle against insecurity is not limited to terrorism. Another destructive force—popularly known as “Yahoo”—has steadily eaten into the nation’s moral and social fabric. Internet fraud, which has become synonymous with “Yahoo” in local parlance, poses a grave threat to Nigeria’s image, economy, and future. The activities of internet fraudsters have tarnished the country’s reputation globally. As a result, many law-abiding Nigerians abroad or seeking legitimate opportunities overseas often face suspicion and discrimination because of the notoriety created by these criminal elements. Originally, Yahoo was merely the name of an internet search engine created in 1994 by Stanford graduates Jerry Yang and David Filo. In Nigeria, however, the term has evolved into a culture driven by greed and materialism. It has become a disturbing subculture with its own language and values.

Expressions such as “mugu fall, guy man chop” celebrate the exploitation of unsuspecting victims, portraying fraud as intelligence and deceit as success. Yahoo boys are notorious for flaunting their ill-gotten wealth. They parade expensive cars, spend lavishly, and often display arrogance towards elders and society. Their extravagant lifestyle has even been blamed for rising rents and increased cost of living in cities such as Port Harcourt. Following crackdowns in Delta and Edo states, there have been concerns over the growing presence of these elements in Rivers State. What is particularly disturbing is that many of these young men and women, some as young as teenagers, have no legitimate source of income yet live in luxury. Their actions have ruined businesses, impoverished victims, and in some cases pushed people into depression, heart attacks, and suicide.

Yet, they continue to operate openly with frightening confidence. The prevalence of Yahoo culture reflects the deep moral decay in society. Sadly, some families not only tolerate the illicit activities of their children but celebrate and pray for their success. Anyone who condemns the practice often becomes the target of abuse and ridicule. A Port Harcourt-based pastor once experienced fierce backlash from Yahoo sympathisers after speaking against the menace. Nigeria’s permissive environment has unintentionally allowed the practice to flourish. Weak institutions, compromised law enforcement, and families unwilling to question the source of sudden wealth among unemployed youths have all contributed to the problem. The virtues of patience, diligence, and integrity are steadily being replaced by greed and a desperate desire for quick riches.

Perhaps one of the greatest casualties of Yahoo culture is education. The value of years of hard work and academic excellence has been diminished. Many young people now dismiss formal education as a scam, while apprenticeship and vocational training are increasingly looked down upon. The obsession with easy money has encouraged school dropout rates and undermined the culture of honest enterprise. An even more disturbing dimension is the emergence of what many describe as “Yahoo Phase II”—a phenomenon associated with ritual practices and occult beliefs. Although stories surrounding these practices are often difficult to verify, reports of ritual killings, organ harvesting, and other horrific crimes have heightened public fears. Young people seeking wealth at all costs are said to subject themselves to bizarre and inhumane instructions from self-styled spiritualists, resulting in unimaginable tragedies.

Regardless of the myths and realities surrounding these claims, one fact remains undeniable: the pursuit of wealth without values has devastating consequences. Society is increasingly witnessing cases of substance abuse, mental instability, and mysterious deaths among youths whose lives are built on criminality and desperation. Nigeria cannot afford to remain indifferent while a generation is consumed by greed and moral bankruptcy. Combating Yahoo culture requires more than arrests and prosecutions. Families must instill values of honesty and hard work. Religious leaders, educators, and community leaders must consistently promote integrity. Government institutions must strengthen the rule of law and ensure that crime does not pay. Above all, society must stop celebrating wealth without questioning its source. No nation can attain sustainable development when fraud is admired, hard work is ridiculed, and criminality is rewarded.

The future of Nigeria depends on raising a generation that values character above riches and integrity above material possessions. If this dangerous culture is left unchecked, the consequences will be severe. But if the nation collectively chooses the path of morality, accountability, and industry, there remains hope that the tide can be reversed and the country’s dignity restored.

By; Confidence Adoo

Opinion

Good Health Through Socrates’ Prescription

Published

4 weeks ago

June 8, 2026

The Tide

Quote: “In an age of advanced medicine and endless health information, the greatest prescription may still be the oldest one: know yourself. True health begins when we understand our bodies, emotions, habits and choices.”

The 21st century has ushered in extraordinary progress in science, technology and medicine. Diseases that once claimed millions of lives can now be prevented or treated. Information is available instantly, while fitness applications, health trackers and modern healthcare facilities have become part of everyday life. Yet, despite these advances, many people continue to struggle with physical illnesses, emotional stress, anxiety, depression and lifestyle-related diseases. This contradiction raises an important question: Why are people becoming increasingly unhealthy in an age of remarkable medical advancement? Part of the answer may lie in the timeless wisdom associated with the ancient Greek philosopher Socrates: “Know thyself.” Though spoken more than two thousand years ago, these words remain profoundly relevant today. They remind us that genuine wellbeing begins with self-understanding.

Knowing oneself goes beyond knowing one’s name, occupation or social status. It involves understanding one’s body, emotions, habits, strengths, weaknesses and aspirations. It means recognizing how daily choices affect physical, mental and emotional health. In many respects, self-knowledge forms the foundation of healthy living. One of the greatest health challenges today is the tendency to ignore warning signs until serious problems emerge. Many people neglect symptoms such as persistent fatigue, poor sleep, chronic stress, unhealthy eating habits and lack of physical activity. Because they are disconnected from their bodies, they fail to recognize that their health is gradually deteriorating. A person who truly knows himself pays attention to these signals. Such an individual understands which foods nourish the body and which habits undermine health. They recognize when rest is necessary,

when stress levels become dangerous and when professional medical attention should be sought. Self-awareness encourages preventive action long before illness develops. The same principle applies to mental and emotional health. Modern life is filled with pressures. Social media often encourages unhealthy comparisons, while economic challenges, family responsibilities and workplace demands create enormous psychological burdens. Many people suffer silently because they have not learned to understand or manage their emotions. Knowing oneself means recognizing emotional triggers, vulnerabilities and sources of stress. It involves identifying feelings of anxiety, sadness, anger or frustration before they become overwhelming. Self-aware individuals are more likely to seek support, adopt healthy coping mechanisms and maintain emotional balance.

Self-knowledge also promotes discipline. Many of today’s health problems are linked to lifestyle choices. Excessive consumption of processed foods, alcohol abuse, smoking, substance misuse, physical inactivity and poor sleeping habits contribute significantly to disease burdens around the world. Most people are aware of these risks. The challenge is often not a lack of information but a lack of self-understanding. Individuals who understand their motivations, weaknesses and tendencies are better equipped to resist harmful habits and develop healthier routines. In this way, self-knowledge becomes a powerful tool for self-control. Socrates also taught that “the unexamined life is not worth living.” While philosophical in origin, this statement has practical implications for health. Examining one’s life encourages honest reflection. Are we eating wisely? Are we exercising enough?

Are we sleeping adequately? Are we managing stress effectively? Are we maintaining healthy relationships? These are not merely philosophical questions. They are essential components of a healthy lifestyle. Honest answers can reveal habits that require improvement and inspire positive change. Ironically, while technology has made health information more accessible, it has also made self-understanding more difficult. Many people spend hours following social media trends and public personalities while paying little attention to their own health. They know more about celebrities than they know about their blood pressure, sleep quality or emotional wellbeing. A healthier society will require more than modern hospitals and advanced medications. It will require citizens who actively seek to understand themselves. Preventive healthcare begins with personal awareness.

Parents, educators, religious leaders, healthcare professionals and policymakers all have important roles to play in promoting self-awareness. Young people should be taught not only academic subjects but also emotional intelligence, self-reflection, healthy lifestyle habits and personal responsibility. Ultimately, Socrates’ ancient wisdom remains as relevant today as it was centuries ago. A person who understands himself is more likely to make healthy decisions, maintain emotional stability, build resilience and seek help when necessary. The journey to good health does not begin in a hospital, pharmacy or gymnasium. It begins within. As the world continues to confront complex health challenges, perhaps the most powerful prescription requires no expensive technology or medication. It is the enduring wisdom that has stood the test of time: know yourself. In understanding ourselves, we discover one of the surest paths to healthier, happier and more meaningful lives.

By: Sylvia ThankGod-Amadi