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Men from various sectors have stepped forward to take an active role in the fight against gender-based violence, as the Male Feminist Nigeria (MFN) Project was launched in Pankshin, Plateau State, on Tuesday.

The event, organised by the Kozaki Transformation and Development Foundation, brought together stakeholders including traditional rulers, religious leaders, transport union executives, barbers, and other key actors united in the mission of promoting male engagement in ending gender-based violence.

The stakeholders’ engagement meeting, which marks the advancement of the MFN Project across North Central Nigeria, focused on engaging men as allies in promoting gender justice and challenging harmful societal norms.

In his address, Akighir Caleb Akighir, Communication Officer of the MFN Project, emphasised the need to confront entrenched patriarchal ideologies.

He warned that negative masculinity is damaging not only to women and girls but also to men, who are often confined by unrealistic and harmful gender expectations. Expanding on this, Manfred Akpen, Program Officer of the MFN Project, delivered a keynote presentation titled ‘Becoming a Male Ally: From Conviction to Consistency.’ He called on men to go beyond symbolic gestures and instead demonstrate consistent action in advancing gender equity within their communities.

The participants embraced the message, expressing readiness to become ambassadors of male feminism in their communities. Representatives from transport unions, barbers, local academic institutions, religious and traditional councils, and community-based groups pledged to actively promote positive masculinity and help dismantle violence-supportive norms.

Kashim Basil, a Catholic priest and the Coordinator of JDPC Caritas, welcomed participants on behalf of Isaiah Ter, also a Catholic priest and a lawyer who is the Executive Director of the Kozaki Foundation, while prayers were offered by Fr. Gogwim to open the session.

The engagement marks a significant milestone for the MFN Project in Plateau State, North Central Nigeria and sets the tone for further expansion across the region. As the initiative gains ground, Pankshin now serves as a critical hub in a growing movement for male-led advocacy against gender-based violence.

The Institute of Change Management (ICM) has called on Nigerian businesses to prepare for a future defined by the convergence of people, processes, and technology, noting that successful organisations will be those that approach digital transformation with intentionality and agility.

Nat Osewele, president/chairman of the council of ICM, during his address of welcome at the 2025 ICM Annual Conference themed, ‘Navigating to the Future: Synchronising People, Processes and Technology for the Next Era of Change,’ said the gathering was more than a meeting of professionals but a launchpad for transformation.

‘This conference reflects our collective commitment to shaping the future with intention, innovation, and integrity,’ Osewele stated.

He emphasised that the future is not to be feared but designed, while urging change leaders to build cultures that embrace agility, collaboration, and continuous learning.

During a panel session on ‘digital transformation and organisational agility,’ industry leaders highlighted both opportunities and challenges facing Nigerian firms.

Morolayo Igeleke, country marketing manager at UPS, stressed that successful transformation depends on leadership commitment.

‘It starts from the top,’ he said. ‘The shoulders of implementation begin with leadership, and everyone else will pick from it.

‘To invest in digital transformation as a leader, you must be digitally literate, set visions and timings, and grow incrementally. Mindset change is very difficult, but with execution and time, things will change,’ Igeleke noted. Folorunsho Aliu, group chief information officer of Dangote Industries Limited, said agility is not just speed but alignment with an organisation’s realities.

‘A lot of people are jumping to AI because it’s the real thing, but you can’t digitise processes if your business is still running on paper,’ Aliu stated. ‘You must evaluate your stage, set the right foundation, and grow organically. There is no need to rush just to catch up with everybody.’

He added that small businesses may find it easier to embed digital systems from scratch, while larger organisations must take a more structured approach.

The panel agreed that Nigerian businesses must prioritise continuous learning, workforce audits, and communication when adopting AI. Small pilot projects, investment in digital literacy, and ethical considerations were also identified as critical success factors.

Obiageli Nwobi, managing consultant at HR Allied Services Ltd, noted that AI is already embedded in everyday work.

She stated that there is an urgency to prepare today’s workforce for an AI-driven future. ‘AI has come to stay. Many of us already use it daily without realising it – from personalised recommendations to research tools.

‘The workforce of tomorrow will not only be assisted by AI, it will be shaped by it. The focus is shifting from jobs to skills, and success will depend on human-AI collaboration.’

It was noted that AI is increasingly taking over repetitive jobs, but new roles are also being created, from AI ethics officers to process improvement engineers.

‘Our jobs are not disappearing; they are evolving.’

The Senator representing Lagos East Senatorial District, Mukhail Adetokunbo Abiru, has commended Nigerians for their resilience and steadfastness as the nation marks its 65th Independence Anniversary.

In his Independence Day message, Senator Abiru emphasized that Nigeria’s rich diversity must continue to serve as a source of unity and strength, rather than division. He urged citizens to reject divisive rhetoric, intolerance, and actions capable of undermining national cohesion, stressing that the country’s future rests on the collective resolve of its people to work together in peace and progress.

Abiru, who chairs both the Southern Senators’ Forum and the Senate Committee on Banking, Insurance and Other Financial Institutions, also called for increased support for the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. He noted that the President’s bold reforms are gradually yielding the desired outcomes.

The Senator’s statement reads: ‘Today, as we mark the 65th Independence Anniversary of our beloved nation, I join millions of compatriots in celebrating Nigeria’s resilience and enduring spirit. Despite the economic, social, and political hurdles before us, our dear nation remains a beacon of hope on the African continent. ‘Our diversity – with over 250 ethnic groups and more than 500 languages – is our greatest asset. Under the green-and-white flag, we must continue to strengthen our unity, guard against actions that deepen our national fault lines, and renew our collective commitment to nation-building.

‘I equally appeal to all Nigerians to continue to stand solidly with our esteemed leader, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, as he provides bold and focused leadership that is clearly redirecting our country toward enduring sustainable development and economic growth.

‘The administration’s major policies have already begun to yield positive results. The harmonization of the foreign exchange market, among other laudable reforms, has helped to curb spiraling inflation, boost investor confidence, and lay the groundwork for a stable economic environment where enterprises can thrive – ultimately leading to shared prosperity.

‘This is not the time to give up on Nigeria. It is precisely at moments like this that our unity, resilience, and patriotism matter most. With determination and a shared sense of purpose, I am confident that we will emerge as a stronger and more prosperous nation – not just for ourselves, but for generations to come.’

The United States Embassy in Nigeria has reassured Nigerians that visa and passport services will continue to run despite the ongoing partial shutdown of the US government.

In a statement issued on Wednesday via its official X handle, the embassy explained that while its social media accounts would not be updated regularly during the funding lapse, essential consular services remain operational.

‘Due to the lapse in appropriations, this X account will not be updated regularly until full operations resume, except for urgent safety and security information.

At this time, scheduled passport and visa transit services in the United States and at U.S. Embassies and Consulates overseas will continue during the lapse in appropriations as the situation permits,’ the embassy stated. The clarification came after widespread concerns among Nigerians that the shutdown in Washington might disrupt visa processing, affect student travel, and delay other consular services.

The shutdown began after US lawmakers and President Donald Trump failed to reach a compromise on a federal budget deal. At the centre of the dispute is Democratic Party pressure for expanded healthcare funding, which Republicans have resisted. Trump, defending the shutdown, said the deadlock could help him cut back on Democratic-linked programmes.

While the shutdown will not affect critical services such as the military, postal operations, or welfare schemes like Social Security and food stamps, it is expected to place a heavy burden on federal workers.

The Congressional Budget Office estimates that as many as 750,000 federal employees may be sent home daily without pay until a funding agreement is reached.

This marks the first government shutdown since the record-breaking 35-day closure nearly seven years ago, also under Trump’s administration.

Since 1976, when the modern budget process was introduced, the US has experienced 21 shutdowns, most of which were resolved before causing widespread disruptions.

The embassy advised Nigerians to rely on official sources for consular information during the shutdown.

‘Nigerians are encouraged to visit travel.state.gov for the latest updates on visa appointments and passport processing,’ the notice added.

Kano State Governor, Abba Kabir Yusuf, has announced new opportunities in school feeding, healthcare, and foreign investments for the state following Kano’s participation at the 80th Session of the United Nations General Assembly (UNGA80) High-Level Week in New York.

The governor, who was represented at the event by the Emir of Kano, His Highness Khalifah Muhammad Sanusi II, and the Director-General of the Kano State Investment Promotion Agency (Kan-Invest), Muhammad Naziru Halliru, said the engagements created fresh avenues that will boost human development and economic growth across Kano.

One of the major outcomes was the discussion on school feeding programmes. Emir Sanusi met with Kenyan entrepreneur and founder of Food4Education, Wawira Njiru, to explore collaboration aimed at expanding school feeding in Kano. The talks also involved the possibility of accessing African Development Bank funds already earmarked for African school feeding initiatives. Governor Yusuf explained that such a move was vital in tackling malnutrition among pupils, keeping children in school, and raising academic performance. He stressed that investing in children’s nutrition was an investment in Kano’s future, since well-fed children are more likely to stay focused in class and become productive citizens.

The delegation also highlighted Kano’s healthcare needs and reforms during engagements with global stakeholders. At the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation Goalkeepers Event, the team presented Kano’s challenges in maternal health, immunisation, and access to primary healthcare. Governor Yusuf emphasised that forging global partnerships in the health sector was crucial to addressing service delivery gaps, especially in rural communities. He explained that the administration was already working to expand health facilities, ensure steady drug supply, and recruit more healthcare professionals to meet the growing needs of the people.

On the economic front, Kano showcased its vast investment opportunities at the Global Compact: Unstoppable Africa and the Cavista Holdings/Corporate Council on Africa Summit. The state presented itself as a potential hub for global investors by stressing its market size, agricultural resources, and skilled workforce. Yusuf revealed that the state government would soon unveil a five-year multi-sectoral investment strategic plan that would serve as a roadmap for attracting foreign direct investment, expanding job opportunities, and increasing internally generated revenue. He declared that Kano, being Nigeria’s most populous state, was positioning itself as the leading investment hub not just in Northern Nigeria but in the entire country. The governor commended Emir Sanusi for representing Kano with distinction at UNGA80. He said the emir’s international recognition, experience in economic matters, and global contacts gave the state an advantage during its engagements. Sanusi, a former governor of the Central Bank of Nigeria and a respected voice on financial inclusion, was well received at the various side events, where he reinforced Kano’s commitment to reforms and global cooperation. Yusuf described the emir as a strong ambassador for the state whose presence elevated the quality of the conversations held with international partners.

According to the governor, Kano’s participation in UNGA80 is in line with his administration’s broader vision of linking the state to global networks of development, investment, and innovation. He maintained that Kano could not rely solely on internal resources to meet its pressing challenges in education, healthcare, and the economy. Instead, it must embrace global partnerships that can provide funding, technical expertise, and new ideas. He noted that the results of these efforts were already showing in the interest expressed by international partners and organisations that engaged with the Kano delegation.

Observers believe Kano’s involvement at UNGA80 could prove to be a turning point if the discussions lead to concrete outcomes. The possible partnership with Food4Education, for example, could have a major impact on thousands of children in public schools by improving access to meals and encouraging attendance. Similarly, the state’s pitch at international investment summits may attract new industries that would create jobs, stimulate commerce, and reduce poverty.

Yusuf assured the people of Kano that his administration would not allow the outcomes of UNGA80 to end as mere conference appearances. He pledged that all commitments made in New York would be followed up and converted into tangible results for the benefit of the state. He added that his government was not interested in attending global meetings for photo opportunities but was determined to bring back solutions, partnerships, and investments that would directly improve lives.

Uba Sani, the executive Governor of Kaduna State, has approved the 100 per cent implementation of the revised 2024 CONMESS and CONHESS, worth over ?518 million monthly and ?6.2 billion annually, a move that ended more than a decade of stagnation in health workers’ pay and restored dignity to medical practice.

Health sector unions in Kaduna State, through a joint press conference, have commended Governor Uba Sani for what they described as historic reforms that have transformed the state’s healthcare system. These were the Nigeria Medical Association (NMA), Association of Resident Doctors (ARD), National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), Medical and Health Workers Union of Nigeria (MHWUN), Association of Medical Laboratory Scientists (AMLSN), and the Joint Health Sector Union (JOHESU).

The unions hailed directives for local councils to begin payment of 60 per cent CONHESS for primary healthcare staff, automatic employment of 2025 Kaduna State University medical graduates as House Officers, and the reintroduction of a three-year bond system for state-sponsored medical students and resident doctors. They also praised infrastructural strides, including a new 300-bed specialist hospital, renovation of 15 general hospitals, revitalisation of 200 primary healthcare centres, construction of oxygen plants and baby-care units across senatorial zones, procurement of advanced equipment and ambulances, and annual recruitment of 1,800 health workers.

‘Governor Sani has restored confidence, strengthened retention, and positioned Kaduna as a model for others to emulate,’ the unions declared.

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has praised the Imo State governor, Hope Uzodinma’s impactful governance during the launch of Governor Uzodinma’s book, ‘A Decade of Impactful Progressive Governance in Nigeria’, held in Owerri, Imo State, on Tuesday, September 30, 2025.

President Tinubu commended Uzodinma for his initiatives on the three signature projects of his administration that were commissioned, which include a 52km Owerri-Mbaise-Umuahia road, the Assumpta Cathedral Twin Flyover and Emmanuel Iwuanyanwu International Conference Centre and above all, for authoring a book that chronicles the achievements of the party in the past 10 years.

‘With this book, Governor Uzodinma has given Nigeria a gift. No nation will forget its own journey and no leader will forget the beauty of stewardship,’ he stated.

President Tinubu expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, pointing out that the nation has recorded great improvement since the leadership of the APC. ‘Nigeria is no longer where it was 10 years ago,’ he noted.

He recalled that APC as a Party began the work of stabilising the economy under the leadership of former President Muhammadu Buhari (late), stating that since then, the country has continued to move for the better. Tinubu said that his administration has in the second quarter of 2025, grown the Nigerian economy by 4.23% with the inflation rate falling to 20.12% in 2025, indicating a relief to the people.

He therefore appealed to Nigerians to remain patient, resilient and assured that the nation is changing for the better with the external reserve standing at 42.03%, the highest since 2019.

In his remarks, the Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, commended Governor Uzodinma for transforming Imo State with critical infrastructure, conveying his admiration for the governor’s efforts in putting together a book that chronicles the APC’s achievements and generally, for his vision for Imo State.

Governor Uzodinma, in his address at the book launch, reflected on Nigeria’s journey under the APC from 2015 to 2025, highlighting milestones, challenges, and lessons learned, and emphasised that the book is not just a personal achievement but belongs to the APC family and the Nigerian people.

Governor Uzodinma stated that the book is a product of deep reflection and explained ‘progressivism’ in the Nigerian context, focusing on community solidarity, inclusion, and service.

He praised President Tinubu’s visionary leadership and role in forming the APC, and commended the President for economic progress, especially for recording trade surpluses for six consecutive quarters, with non-oil exports contributing significantly.

As the nation celebrates 65 years of independence, Umaru Fintiri, the governor of Adamawa State, has announced the state’s economic turnaround, saying its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) rose from ?6.2 billion in 2019 to ?16.2 billion in 2025, giving credit to fiscal discipline, digital reforms, and improved transparency.

The governor pointed out that independence becomes tangible when good governance is translated into real development.

Delivering his address, he urged citizens to reflect on the nation’s journey while recommitting to the ideals of justice, unity, and development.

He further reminded citizens that while Nigeria has endured decades of challenges from civil war to dictatorship, poverty, and insecurity the true measure of independence lies not in survival, but in progress.

‘Survival is not success,’ the Governor said. ‘Independence without progress is only a symbol. Real freedom is measured by how it transforms everyday lives.’

He emphasised that in Adamawa State, his administration has sought to translate that belief into tangible action. From educational reforms to healthcare revitalisation, from improved infrastructure to job creation, Fintiri detailed a range of initiatives aimed at improving quality of life for residents across the state.

Fintri announced the ongoing recruitment of 12,000 qualified candidates into the Adamawa State Civil Service, including 5,000 in MDAs, 5,000 in Post-Primary Education, and 2,000 in the Health Sector as part of dividends of democracy. ‘This is not just a job drive it is an investment in efficiency, public service, and the future of our youth,’ he stated.

In a direct appeal to the youth, the governor encouraged them to take ownership of the country’s future, declaring, ‘Your time is not coming your time is here.’ He urged young people to channel their energy into building bridges rather than walls, and to let their actions speak louder than their posts on social media.

Fintiri also underscored the importance of unity, especially in a diverse state like Adamawa, where multiple cultures, languages, and faiths coexist.

‘That diversity must never be our weakness it must be our strength,’ he affirmed. ‘A divided Adamawa like a divided Nigeria cannot stand.’

He called for every Nigerian to contribute to building a nation where ‘no one is left behind and nothing is left untouched,’ affirming that true independence must be seen and felt in the lives of everyday people

Earlier,James Iliya, Commissioner of information in his speech states that with the theme of this year’s independence celebration ‘ All Hands-on Deck for a Greater Nation’, is both a reminder and a call to action.

Iliya further pointed out that building a great nation is not the work of one person or one group but a collective effort, stressing that patience and teamwork solve even the hardest problems.

He also commended the government for ensuring that information flows freely, citizens are heard and development reaches every community, investing in education to prepare youths for the future.

Wale Tinubu CON, group chief executive, Oando PLC, has been awarded the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at Africa Energy Week (AEW) 2025, in recognition of his unwavering commitment to building Oando into one of Africa’s foremost integrated energy companies.

The award, one of the most coveted accolades at AEW, is presented annually to industry leaders whose careers have demonstrated extraordinary vision, resilience, and a lasting impact on Africa’s energy landscape. Past recipients have included trailblazers such as Benedict Okey Oramah, president of Afreximbank, who received the Mohammed S. Barkindo Lifetime Achievement Award in 2024; Hage Geingob, former president of Namibia, and H.E. Macky Sall, former president of Senegal, awarded in 2023; and Bruno Jean Richard Itoua, minister of Hydrocarbons, Republic of Congo, in 2022.

In conferring the award, the Africa Energy Chamber cited Tinubu’s ‘dedication to advancing Africa’s energy security, his bold leadership in navigating Oando through periods of uncertainty and transformation, and his pivotal role in demonstrating the power of indigenous companies in driving industrial growth and energy sovereignty across the continent.’ Throughout his career, Tinubu has been a steadfast champion of Africa, charting its own destiny by harnessing its abundant resources for the benefit of its people. A firm believer that anyone can achieve greatness with vision, determination, and the right team around them, he has led Oando from its modest beginnings as a local downstream operator into a multinational integrated energy player with a robust portfolio spanning exploration and production, power, and renewables. His leadership has not only positioned Oando as a continental leader but also symbolized African ambition, ingenuity, and resilience.

The Lifetime Achievement Award is widely regarded as a benchmark of excellence at AEW, reserved for leaders whose contributions have left an indelible mark on Africa’s energy sector. It recognises individuals whose sustained, more than decade-long careers embody remarkable achievements and enduring contributions to the oil, gas, and energy industries. Tinubu’s recognition was a fitting and well-deserved tribute to a leader who has consistently inspired others to believe in the promise of Africa and the power of its people.

In a significant event for cultural diplomacy, the documentary film ‘Uru Igba Boi’ (The Value of Apprenticeship) took centre stage at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA) in Lagos on 19 September. The screening was part of a high-level symposium on Nigeria-China cooperation, organised by the NIIA and the Chinese Consulate, which focused on fostering economic and cultural ties through film. The presence of senior officials from the Chinese Embassy and key stakeholders from the Igba Boi ecosystem highlighted the documentary’s importance as a means for international dialogue.

A Triumphant Project and Its Visionary Creator

This show was a crowning achievement for the film’s producer, Ijeoma T.M. Richards, a seasoned Nollywood figure with numerous acting credits.

For Richards, the project marked a fulfilling return to her first love: documentary filmmaking. She has long aspired to leverage her intellect and talent beyond acting, aiming to tell meaningful stories that illuminate Nigerian culture.

Uru Igba Boi is the realisation of that dream. The one-hour, twenty-two-minute film explores the highly successful Igbo apprenticeship system from Eastern Nigeria, examining its processes and significant influence.

The documentary has received notable recognition, being selected for various international film festivals and earning numerous esteemed awards.

Finalist for best documentary at Toronto International Nollywood Film Festival TINFF, 2025)

Honourable Mention at Hollywood Independent Filmmaker Awards and Festival (2024)

Official selection at the Alpine Frames Film Festival, Switzerland (2025)

Best actress in a supporting role, Nigerian Women Achievers Awards 2025

Official Selection at the I-Represent International Documentary and Bayelsa International Film Festivals (2025) Ijeoma Richards at the Nigeria-China forum.

Capturing a Cornerstone of Entrepreneurship

The documentary examines the Igba Boi system by visiting markets across Nigeria and hearing directly from its beneficiaries. It explores how the system has been fundamental to the Igbo people’s recognition as celebrated businesspeople worldwide.

Ms Richards told BusinessDay, ‘Although I am an award-winning actor and filmmaker who has primarily worked on feature films, documentaries are my true passion. Uru Igba-boi is my first feature documentary project, and it is the first of many more I plan to produce.

She added, ‘What an eye-opening journey this has been for me. My curiosity and desire to unravel and understand how things work is what draws me to documentaries. For a while, I have been fixated on deciding which story to tell, until one day, while I was with my eldest sister, I realised I wanted to know and understand how these quietly successful and focused Igbo businesspeople became who they are and what makes them so confident in their quiet, unassuming ways. I found that the common denominator was the training they all received, which is Igba-boi. The project started in 2023, so it is not new. It is only just beginning to gain traction and attention.

When the idea first came to me and I was satisfied with my initial questions, I shared my thoughts with my eldest sister, Chinwe Ifechigha, who I was with at the time. She said, ‘You should start the project immediately and not waste time, before it grows cold in your mind.’ Then she handed me a book she has on the subject of Igba-boi.’

At the NIIA symposium, the film sparked an expert debate on the system’s role as a driver of entrepreneurship and economic development. Chief Ngozi Emechebe, President of ASPAMDA and a prominent figure in the film, powerfully described Igba Boi as ‘God’s divine intervention for the Igbo race.’

He shared his personal journey, which began at the age of ten, following the Civil War. ‘I saw my dad bury his money because of the ‘only 20 pounds’ policy,’ he recalled.

‘I didn’t want to do boi-boi. I thought I was coming to Lagos for other things. I passed the Common Entrance Examination, and my name appeared on the list published in The Renaissance newspaper.’

Initially reluctant, Emechebe now passionately advocates for the system, noting, ‘You are subject to learning. It builds a culture of hard work. Your master opens his secrets to you. You learn practically. There is also mentorship.’ Ijeoma Richards, CEO Trimm Network/ producer Uru Igba-boi, Ms Yan Yuqing, Consul General of China, Maimuna Abaji Yahaya, CEO Mesba Arts Studios and producer of Traditions, Prof. Efem Ubi of the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs, NIIA.

A System Formalised: Timely Legislative Context

The documentary’s release is especially timely. On 10 September 2025, the Anambra State Igbo Apprenticeship Law came into force, officially recognising and regulating this traditional practice for the first time. The new law establishes a legal framework, including written agreements, a maximum seven-year training period, and a dedicated commission for oversight-modern protections designed to preserve the cultural practice while preventing exploitation.

Barrister Leo Chiegboka, Anambra State Liaison Officer, commended the documentary and described it as timely, considering the recently passed law on Igba-boi. He shared copies of the Anambra Igbo Apprenticeship Law and delivered a speech at the event.

The Filmmaker: Ijeoma Richards

Ijeoma Richards is a Nigerian actress, film producer, and President of the Nollywood Creative Minds Forum (NCMF). An MBA holder from the University of Lagos, her notable acting works include Malaysian Wives (nominated for the 2018 AMVCA) and Unforgivable (2023).

A firm advocate of professionalism, she advises aspiring actors to concentrate on refining their craft-excellent diction and delivery-rather than depending on a ‘pretty face.’ Describing herself as an introvert who enjoys books and quiet company, Richards also co-owns a property business in Lekki. She remains committed to her passion for documentary filmmaking, reinforcing her reputation as a thoughtful and versatile creative force.

Challenges included an accident caused by a careless driver that resulted in a two-month layoff, as well as respondents who initially agreed to interviews but declined at the last minute.

It has been positive overall.

‘The documentary, although there is still more ground to cover, has received impressive acceptance, particularly from the Igbo community. Yes, there has been positive feedback, with people requesting that more aspects of the system be documented. Members involved in the Igba-boi system are very interested in the project and have requested additional screenings. Some business owners from the Igba-boi system attended the recent screening at the Nigeria-China Cooperation Symposium on September 18, 2025, at the Nigerian Institute of International Affairs (NIIA).’

Ijeoma Richards is optimistic. ‘Working on this project has shown me how much we are empowered to tell our own story. We are more focused on the fleeting and losing the privilege of curating the wealth entrusted to us as a people. As for soft power, we need to learn more than a thing or two

from Hollywood. It’s the loudest example of soft power I can give. That industry told the world what to think, and it succeeded tremendously.

‘I’ll say go for it! Tell your own story, your own way, in whatever language you speak. The world has a place for you. And if you don’t, someone with

a camera will come, tell it their way, and you most likely won’t like it.’

You can expect to watch Uru Igba Boi at your convenience soon. Ijeoma Richards states, ‘The next step is distribution, which is already in process.’