Man Jubilates, Welcomes Baby After Carrying ‘Pillow Baby,’ For Years

 

A heartwarming story of faith, perseverance, and ultimate joy has emerged from Nigeria as a couple celebrates the arrival of their long-awaited biological son, a year after embarking on a remarkable journey symbolized by a “pillow baby.”

Shared on the couple’s joint Twitter page, @stalwart_lovers, known for chronicling their faith-based lifestyle and relationship experiences, the video captures the profound moment as the husband joyfully cradles their newborn son.

The couple, who tied the knot in June 2020, made a conscious decision to defer parenthood until 2022, eagerly anticipating the arrival of their first child. However, as months passed without conception, they faced the disheartening prospects of infertility.

Undeterred by challenges, the husband embarked on a symbolic gesture of faith in 2023, donning a pillow on his back as a representation of their future child, trusting in divine providence for fulfillment of their desire.

Their journey took a turn when, in May 2022, they received a divine revelation promising the gift of a son. Armed with unwavering faith and trust in God’s timing, they remained steadfast in their belief that their prayers would be answered.

In February 2023, the husband recorded a poignant video with the pillow baby, expressing his conviction that he would one day replace it with their real child nestled against his back.

Now, a year later, their faith has been rewarded as they cradle their newborn son in their arms, a testament to the power of belief and the fulfillment of God’s promise.

Reflecting on their journey, the couple shared, “We had been married since June 2020 but started trying by January 2022… In May 2022, we received a word from God that He was going to give us a son… One year later, the Lord has done it finally and we are holding our promise in our hands.”

Mr. Ibu’s family neglected him to fight for money – Actress Doris Ogala

 

Actress Doris Ogala has blamed the late comic actor, Mr. Ibu’s untimely death on his bereaved family.

Mr. Ibu’s family members were seen at the hospital where his body was being transported to his hometown in Enugu for burial.

Among those present were his sons, Valentine Okafor and Daniel Okafor, and other members of the family.

Reacting to the incident, Doris stated that the late actor suffered so much, saying that amid his decaying body, he was still trying to stay strong, claiming that most people around him did him dirty.

She wrote: “Ahhhh this man suffered. Amid his decaying body. He was still strong. Ahhhhhh god. Most people around this man did him dirty. Chai. God bless @ladyjasminec.”

In another post, she noted how the family left him alone and were fighting for his property while he was still alive.

“Mr. Ibu’s body leaving the mortuary in Lagos to Enugu accompanied by his first son Valentine Okafor, kai this world… these people left this man alone. And what was more important to them was dragging money. Moving about in the police station… chai. It’s well. @ladyjasminec god saw your heart and suffering… it’s well.”

Govt takes minimum wage talks to Nigerians in zones

 

Ongoing talks on the new national minimum wage will take a break from the boardroom.

On Thursday, the discussions will be taken to the public for the contribution of professionals and other Nigerians.

Six cities across the geo-political zones will host discussions to enable Nigerians from all walks of life to contribute to the proposal.

The current minimum wage is N30,000, which went into effect in April 2019.

The Federal Government in January constituted a 37-member Tripartite Committee to negotiate and agree on the new minimum wage.

The committee is made up of federal and state officials as well as private sector players.

Thursday’s discussion will take place in Yola, Northeast; Kano, Northwest; Abuja, Northcentral; Uyo, Southsouth; Enugu, Southeast, and Lagos, Southwest.

Ministry of Finance said yesterday that the essence of the meetings is to gather diverse perspectives and recommendations.

The Southwest zonal public hearing will be held in Lagos at the LTV Blue Roof Arena in Ikeja.

It will be chaired by the Minister of Finance and Coordinating Minister for the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.

Expected at the event are government officials, business leaders, labour union leaders, and the public.

A diverse panel will lead the discussions.

Among them is Osun State Governor Adeleke Ademola (representing state governments).

Adeleke is a representative of the governors on the minimum wage tripartite committee.

Employers will be represented by Omo-Lamai Grace (manufacturers association) and Muhammed Nura (Small and Medium Enterprises).

Labour will be represented by Adeyanju Adewale (Nigeria Labour Congress) and Shuaibu Afusatu (Trade Union Congress).

They will be joined by Minister of State Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.

The Tripartite Committee will submit a recommendation on the proposed minimum wage.

The minimum wage was reviewed from N18,000 to N30,000 on April 18, 2019, and signed by former President Muhammadu Buhari into law.

The reviewed wage is expected to take effect on April 1, 2024.

Following the removal of subsidy on petroleum products, labour has been calling for a wage increase.

One of the demands of labour is an upward review of the national wage to N200,000.

It has, however, said its proposal would be influenced by the “country’s inflation figure and present realities.”

Onyejeocha said the committee has so far held two meetings and discussions are ongoing.

TUC President, Festus Osifo, said the tripartite committee was broken into sub-committees with each given specific assignments.

The reports of the sub-committees will be submitted to the larger house for deliberation.

By its tripartite nature, the committee is made up of persons from Labour unions, the public sector (federal and state governments) and the private sector made up of the largest private employer group, the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA), Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), Nigerian Association of Chambers of Commerce Industry Mines and Agriculture (NACCIMA) and Nigerian Association of Small and Medium Enterprises (NASME).

AKWA IBOM: CHRAN Applauds lawmaker for distributing palliatives to constituents; Vows to expose hoaders

 

Rights Advocacy group in Nigeria under the auspices of Center for Human Rights and Advocacy Network (CHRAN) has applauded the National Assembly lawmaker representing Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency in the House of Representatives, Abuja, Hon. Patrick Umoh PhD for distributing presidential palliatives to constituents in Akwa Ibom state.

In a press statement signed  by the CHRAN Director and Secretary, Otuekong Franklyn Isong and Barr. Christopher Ekpo and made available to newsmen in Uyo on Monday, described Dr. Patrick Umoh's gesture to his constituents in Ikot Ekpene/Essien Udim/Obot Akara Federal Constituency as an intervention which came at a time others were resorting to refutations on hunger issues by a cross section of Akwa Ibom people.

The advocacy group vowed to continue to track the presidential rice, even as it monitored the distribution of the palliative by Hon. Umoh.

The Center noted that, Hon. Umoh palliatives distribution exercise, which took place at the weekend 1st March, 2024 at Ikot Ekpene Federal Constituency, was peaceful and successful.

The group noted that apart from the palliative rice, the federal lawmaker also met with the family heads (Mbong Ekpuk), youths and persons living with disabilities (PWD) from the three local government areas to merry with them.

The CHRAN stated that 510 bags of rice and a total of N2.3 million were distributed to the people.

Hon. Patrick Umoh, it is recalled celebrated Christmas with his constituents and presented them 300 bags of rice, 3 cows and the sum of four million ( N4m) Naira.

CHRAN however, urged other National Assembly members from the State, who are yet to distribute the palliative rice and other items to borrow a leaf from the federal lawmaker and be transparent and accountable to their constituents.

The CHRAN further stated that it was sanguine that the President Tinubu Palliatives had been received by all the National Assembly members on behalf of their constituents, and so urged them to distribute same to their constituents to mitigate the looming hunger in the land.

CHRAN also threatened to expose other National Assembly members from the state, who have not distributed the palliatives to their constituents stating that, it has reliable information that palliatives worth N57.8 billion had been approved for members of the National Assembly by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for onward distribution to their constituents and that same had been released and shared to all members of the National Assembly.

The CHRAN also stated  that it has been reliably informed that N200 million worth of rice was given to Senators as palliatives for their constituents, while N100 million worth of rice was given to members of the House of Representatives as palliatives for constituents.

It would be recalled that, the Presidency while showcasing Tinubu’s scorecard in palliatives disbursement to Nigerians, had revealed each Senator got N200 million worth of palliatives for their constituents, while each member of the House of Representatives received N100 million worth of palliatives for their constituents.

Food Subsidy Initiative: Gov. Umo Eno's Altruistic Leadership in Action

Henshaw NYONG.

A famous philosopher and expert in management, Robert K. Greenleaf, once said, 'Good leaders must first become good servants.' In today's Nigeria, the Governor of Akwa Ibom State, His Excellency, Pastor Umo Eno represents this idea. This Cleric-turned Politician is the type of leader Greenleaf talked about because his actions, projects, and programmes since assuming office have shown that he is a rare leader that is eager to serve the people of Akwa Ibom and cares about their well-being.

It is disheartening to note that since the government at the centre announced the removal of fuel subsidies, the country has faced significant economic challenge. This decision has exacerbated the situation, leading to skyrocketing prices of goods and commodities, resulting in unprecedented levels of hardship not experienced or heard of since Nigeria's independence. In fact, across the entire nation, families are grappling with the inability to afford basic necessities including food, with many unable to even afford one meal a day.

Akwa Ibom State is not exempt from these hardships. I am aware of a family with five children who are rationing their meals. If three eat today, the remaining two must wait until tomorrow and make do with only water to survive. As I said, this situation is not unique to my state; it is prevalent across Nigeria as we speak.

Eureka! In the midst of this dire situation, Governor Umo Eno's announcement of the proposed Akwa Ibom State Bulk Purchase Agency offers a glimmer of relief and hope for the impoverished in the State. Of course, the timing could not be more opportune, as this laudable initiative aims to provide essential food items to the most vulnerable segments of Akwa Ibom's population at subsidized rates. More over, with the Agency situated within the Governor's Office, under Governor Umo Eno's direct oversight, there is a sense of confidence that this commendable programme will be effectively managed and executed.

It is important to stress that while some Governors in other States merely talk about solving the problems of their people, Pastor Umo Eno is actively taking steps to help the people of Akwa Ibom, particularly during these challenging times. The details outlining how the food subsidy programme in Akwa Ibom will operate divulge Governor Umo Eno's genuine concern for the welfare of Akwa Ibomites, especially those who are impoverished.

During the first Sunday service in March at All Nations Christian Ministry International, where he worshipped with his wife, Deaconess Patience Eno, and several state functionaries, the Governor shared an uplifting news. He informed how his administration has finalized plans to utilize the State Government's Social Register to distribute food vouchers; making sure that the assistance reaches those most in need while preventing misuse of the programme.

The Governor therefore warned mischief makers, to desist from attempting to thwart government's good intention to stabilize the cost of staple food in the state, announcing that, anyone caught, would face the full weight of the law.

However, I believe that the success of this very laudable initiative hinges on collective effort and support from all stakeholders, especially the wealthy in the State. It is imperative that all hands must be on deck to safeguard the integrity of the food subsidy initiative and prevent any attempts to thwart the Governor's well-intentioned efforts. In doing so, we would not only support Governor Umo Eno's altruistic leadership, but also contribute to the realization of his broader vision for Akwa Ibom as encapsulated in his ARISE Agenda.

Therefore, as we eagerly anticipate this relief which will definitely reach all the nooks and crannies of Akwa Ibom, let us all stand behind this rare leader who is akin to a blessing from God during such challenging times. Yes, it is crystal clear that Governor Umo Eno is devoted to serving Akwa Ibom, and serving with integrity, compassion, and unwavering dedication.

NYONG is a writer on contemporary issues from Uyo.

CHRAN Urges AKSG to Upgrade COE, Calls for Unity Between Mgt, Union

 

The Center for Human Rights and Advocacy Network (CHRAN), a renowned good governance advocacy group in Nigeria, has urged the Akwa Ibom State Government to reconsider the status of the Akwa Ibom State College of Education, Afaha Nsit, Nsit Ibom Local Government Area, with the aim of elevating it to university status.

CHRAN Director, Otuekong Franklyn Isong, conveyed this message during an advocacy visit to the College on Thursday, February 29, 2024.

The group, according to the press released jointly signed by Otuekong Isong, the Director and

Comrade (Barr.) Christopher Ekpo, the Secretary, expressed concern over the declining student population at the College, which has been losing students to universities due to its offering of a three-year National Certificate of Education (NCE) programme, as opposed to the four-year degree programs offered by universities.

CHRAN noted that while the College is empowered to award degrees under certain conditions, it currently requires affiliation with a university, as specified in the relevant legislation.

The group commended the College's management, under the able leadership of the Provost, Prof. Daniel Udo, for fostering relative peace within the institution. They also acknowledged the efforts made in resolving past disputes with the trade union, urging both parties to collaborate to advance the College's mission.

However, CHRAN highlighted the absence of a master plan for the College, which has resulted in haphazard development. They also raised concerns about the poor state of internal roads, lack of perimeter fencing, and inadequate power supply.

Responding, Provost, Prof. Daniel Udo expressed gratitude for CHRAN's visit and outlined efforts to maintain a conducive learning environment. He clarified past misunderstandings with the trade union and assured continued prioritization of staff welfare and infrastructure development.

The release indicated that following discussions, CHRAN members were given a tour of the College's facilities by the management team, including Deputy Provosts Dr. Jeremiah Iweh and Dr. (Mrs) Edo Ekanem, Registrar Barr. Augustine Udoibit, Director of Works Architect Anietie Ukpanah, and Bursar Dr. Emmanuel Akpan.

Thanksgiving: IKOT EKPENE SEN. DIST. YOUTH LEADERS DONATE 5M TO CHURCH, ASSURE SUPPORT FOR ARISE AGENDA

Following Governor Umo Eno's sweeping victories in both the gubernatorial election and subsequent legal challenges, coupled with his administration's impressive achievements since taking office, youth leaders and stakeholders of Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District gathered for a Thanksgiving service at church yesterday, Sunday, March 3, 2024.

The significant Christian gathering, held at the Redeemed Christian Church of God on 5 Queens Street, Ikot Ekpene LGA, attracted prominent figures from the 10 LGAs of the senatorial district and was graced by the presence of the State Chief Executive, represented by Sir Monday Ebong Uko, the Dean of the College of Commissioners.

The extensive list of attendees included Member, Essien Udim State Constituency in the AKHA; Prince Ukpong Akpabio, Commissioner for Labour and Manpower; Hon. Aniefiok Nkom, Honorary Special Adviser to the Governor and former lawmaker; Sir Udo Kierian Akpan represented by Hon Ntuen, Chairman, Akwa Ibom State Environmental Protection and Waste Management Agency (AKSEPWMA) who doubles as the Director, Youths, MPM, Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District; Deacon (Dr.) Prince Ikim, Transition Chairman of Ikot Ekpene LGA, Sir John Cleton, Transition Chairman, Ikono, Hon. Kingsley Akpan, Transition Chairman, Ika, Barr Utibe Nwoko, Comrade Ibrikam of Obot Akara, former member of Ini State Constituency, AKHA; Rt Hon Emmanuel Bassey, SSA Youth Matters, Hon Ini Akpan, SSA Humanitarian Affairs, Prince Nsikak Umoekpo, SSA to the Governor; Deacon Ndianabasi Udom, Chapter Chairmen of PDP as well as PAs and SAs to the Governor across the 10 LGAs amongst others.

Addressing the gathering, the Convener, Dr. Ikim, noted that the event was necessary to return glory to the giver of life and the one who crowns kings; the Almighty God, for making his servant, Pastor Umo Eno, assume the mantle of leadership as Governor of Akwa Ibom.

He continued, "Today, we have gathered for two primary reasons: firstly, to express gratitude to God for Governor Umo Eno's numerous victories and to seek divine guidance and support for his administration. Akwa Ibom State is indeed blessed to have a man of God serving as its Governor, and it is imperative that we continue to lift him up in prayer along with his ARISE Agenda, wishing for its resounding success.

"Secondly, we seize this momentous occasion to acknowledge and appreciate this rare leader who, by the grace of God, represents the Governor on this occasion: Sir Monday Ebong Uko. There were challenging moments before the elections, yet this exceptional leader encouraged, motivated, and instilled hope in us, inspiring us to rally behind our dear Governor. Today, we stand here in gratitude, able to say, 'Thank you, God,' for his unwavering support and guidance."

Various leaders, including Sir Ebong Uko, speaking as the Commissioner, member representing Essien Udim State Constituency, Hon Prince Ukpong Akpabio, SSA Youth Matters, Hon. Ini Akpan, among others, besides donating generously to the church, took the opportunity to enumerate the Governor's significant achievements within just nine months in office and solicited support for his programmes and projects across the 31 Local Government Areas of the State.

In his address, the State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, eulogized the Ikot Ekpene Senatorial District Youth Leaders/Stakeholders Forum for their support before, during, and after the general elections.

Pastor Eno, speaking through his Commissioner for Youth and Sports, Sir Monday Ebong Uko, specifically thanked the youth leaders for their faith in God and their prayers for his administration. He assured the people of the State that his administration would always strive to bring prosperity to all sections of the State, as encapsulated in his ARISE Agenda.

He used the occasion to express gratitude to the Redeemed Church of God (King of Glory Parish) for hosting the event and made a substantial monetary donation to the church.

Earlier, the chairman of the planning committee, Evang Christopher Jerry, assured the Governor of the continuous support of Christian Youths at all times.

Meanwhile, the service, themed "Our Generation Arises With Thanksgiving," drawn from Jeremiah 30 vs 18-21, featured impactful teachings, song ministration, and prayers for the Governor, the first Akwa Ibom family, Government and the good people of Akwa Ibom State.