NCAC Lagos Organises Pomp Send-forth Party For Outgoing Staff

By Perekeme Odon

The Lagos Zonal Directorate of the National Council for Arts and Culture (NCAC) rolled out the drums to celebrate and honour three freshly retired officers, Mr. Momoh Afegbua, Mr. Francis Asowata and Mr. Lawrence Iyoha who had reached the statutory age of 60 and mandatory 35 years in the Nigerian Civil service.

The occasion was the send forth party in recognition of their meritorious services to the arts and cultural professionals, and the uplifting of the National Council for Arts and Culture. It was a befitting honour and a great appreciation for the retirees.

The colourful and entertaining event, which started with an opening prayer by Pastor Azubuike Ezeiwu and anchored by Mr. Pius Okhakia took place on Thursday, November 11 2020 at the Red Brick Gallery, NCAC Lagos Zonal Directorate, National Theatre, saw staff, friends, and family members of the retirees gathered to bid them farewell amid resplendence.

Speaking at the ceremony in his opening remark, Mr. Victor Dotun Omoniyi, Head, Lagos Zonal Directorate congratulated the retirees for their laudable services to the Council. “This event is a commendable one because these three resourceful staff have served the Council and existing the service at the stipulated time. They have so much committed to the vision of the Lagos Zonal Directorate and have never been found wanting in their dedication to duty. We are going to miss them much”. He stated.

Mr. Victor Dotun Omoniyi

 

 He went on to say, “They are retiring but not tired. Whenever we need their advice and help, they will always be there for us, because I believe there is no vacuum in life. Some have retired, but are still called back to still serve. I will have called them to stay on contract if I had that power and authority. As they are leaving, I pray that they do well in their post-retirement phase”. He asserted.

At the risk of sounding cliché, recognitions through citation brought the staff to life weaving a narrative the way a novel does by the Head of Administration Mr. Edwin Ezenobie who focused on the relationship and contributions of the retirees while in service.

Mr. Larry Iyoha & Mr. Edwin Ezenobie

 Comrade Regent Youmor, a resident business consultant who astonishingly found himself at the NCAC Artistes Village through Mr. Momoh Afegbua urged the retirees to be dedicated and committed to the service of humanity in their future endeavour, and blessed those they are leaving behind to emulate their good works. “I charge the officers to be prayerful, be of good character, and emulate the outgoing officers who have done phenomenally well in the course of their service to the nation”.

Ex-naval officer and a businessman resident of the NCAC Artistes Village, Chief Nze George Ohanunma who made a monetary donation as the transport to the retirees furthermore counseled them to get involved in productive activities during retirement in order not to be bored as well as spend more time with family and friends, travel and save money by undertaking “Do It Yourself” home improvement projects.

“I have retired in two jobs and you could see me waxing. So as you’re leaving service, do not say you’re a retiree and going to sit down waiting for a pension. Please, engage in something productive, and who knows, you may make it bigger than when you were in service. You’re not leaving life but only leaving a place you wrote an application to. They can still seek your advice because no man is an island”. He affirmed.

Mr. Victor Omoniyi, Mr. Momoh Afegbua & Mr. Francis Asowata

There were presentations of gifts from the Radio, Television, and Theatre Workers Union (RATTAWU) NCAC Chapter by its Chairman, Comrade Ben Ewuzieh and the National Auditor, Comrade Olorunfemi Olorunmoru; NCAC Public Relations Department headed by Mrs. Mario Okeke, Research and Documentation Department headed by Mrs. Nneka Akwara, the NCAC Lagos Welfare, and the Arts and Crafts Department which was headed by Mr. Momoh Afegbua.

Goodwill messages from Mrs. Sandra Kalu and Mrs. Ogbolu, Head, Account Department / President, NCAC Lagos Cooperative Cooperation Scheme reiterated the Federal government’s total commitment to the well-being of its workforce during and after service through prompt payment of salaries, allowances, bonuses, gratuity, and pension as well as other incentives. “I’m overwhelmed seeing these jolly good fellows retire. We’re going to miss you all”.

Mrs. Christiana Ogbolu & Mrs. Nneka Akwara

Mr. Lawrence Iyoha who spoke on behalf of the retirees thanked the staff and prayed for God to protect and guide everyone. According to him, “After 35 years of meritorious service to this great Council, your encouragement today has put me on a perfect pedestal, and this love should never cease. We should always keep in touch as family. It is not easy to part from a place where one has been for 35 years as a teenager. Do not see us as different or retired from you because we are retired. Please, do remember that we are family and are very open to contribute to whatever project you are embarking on as long as we are put in the picture because this is our home”. He avowed.

One of the retirees and a professionally trained sculptor, Mr. Francis Asowata of the Arts and Crafts Department said he appreciated the exciting and memorable event put together by the staff of the Lagos Zonal Directorate. “I had no problem working with any one of them because we all lived like one family. I achieved all I did owing to their supports and assistance. If I were to be born into this world again, I will want to work with this set of people”. He went further to say. “In terms of consultancy, my line and door are always open for NCAC. I am very ready to show up anytime I am being called upon 24/7 to give whatever assistance to the growth of the Council because this is a place to be. While here, many may not know the importance, but when one goes out, one would know this is actually a place to be. There are only two places to work in this country; NCAC and others”.

Mr. Momoh Afegbua who put in 27 years of meritorious service with the Council said. “The the event was fantastic with a brilliant presentation from my department, Arts and Crafts and the entire NCAC staff. However, what I met 27 years ago is not what is obtainable today. Things are not working the way it’s supposed to be. The standard of practice, quality of service, and staff welfare packages have fallen beyond zero levels. I don’t want to sound condemning, but I will advise the authority to look inward. I give kudos to Lagos Zonal Directorate for their maximum cooperation to realizing any set agenda, and will beg them to continue with the unity.”

Mr. Ibrahim & Mrs. Salimatu Afegbua

Mr. Afegbua went on to plead with the staff to put in their best in whatever they are doing. “Out of the 12 Zonal Offices, Lagos is the only Zonal Office recognized by Abuja due to the peculiarity of the arts and crafts shop I managed. That legacy should be upheld no matter what. Also in my 27 years of service, I attended 23 National Festival for Arts and Culture (NAFEST) all due to my hard work and diligence. Staff should strive harder without waiting or minding for Abuja’s recognition”.

To end the occasion, a vote of thanks was given by Mrs. Chinelo Nnodebe and closing prayers by Mrs. Bimbo Samson.

Present at the event was the Kerewa sensation, ZuleZoo of Africa and members of the NCAC Artistes Village, Mr. Ibrahim and Mrs. Salamatu Afegbua, Mrs. Iyoha, veteran actor/director, Haji Bello, and all members of staff of the National Council for Arts and Culture, Lagos Zonal directorate.

Hassanat and Hussiena Momoh

Mrs. Joy Okojie, Tunde & Moreno Haniel Omoh

(l-r) Mr. Ezenobie, Mr. Omoniyi, Mr. Momoh & Mr. Asowata

Comrade Regent Youmor & Asowata Jnr.

(l-r) Mrs. Agatha Akwaka, Mrs. Ngozi Okutuo & Mrs. Nnodebe 

(l-r) Mr. Victor Omoniyi, Mr. Momoh Afegbua & Mr. Francis Asowata

(l-r) Miss Mercy Igbafe, Mr. Lawrence Iyoha & Mrs. Nneka Akwara

Mrs. Joy Okojie & Mrs. Sandra Kalu

Mr. Shola Abiodun & Comrade Ben Ewuzieh

MC Pius Okhakia

Mrs. Christiana Ogbolu & Mrs. Nneka Akwara

Young Cash & Friends

Modeling Agent Tunde

(l-r) James Adaji, Samuel Noah & Miss Grace Ezenobie

Mr. Ibrahim & Mrs. Salimatu Afegbua

Mrs. Chioma Okere

(l-r) Miss Grace Ezenobie, Mr. James Adaji & Mr. Sam Noah

(l-r) Ifeoma Oraekwuotu, Mrs. Joy Okojie & Moreno Haniel Omoh

Mrs. Larry-Iyoha

(l-r) Mr. Lawrence Iyoha, Mr. Edwin Ezenobie & Mr. Victor Omoniyi

Mrs. Chinyelu Mark & Mr. Victor Ahuama

(l-r) Mr. Victor Omoniyi, Mr. Momoh Afegbua & Mr. Francis Asowata

Moreno Haniel Omoh & Sandra Kalu

Mr. Shola Abiodun & Mr. Victor Omoniyi

Mrs. Chinelo Nnodebe

Mr. Pius Okhakia & Mrs. Chinelo Nnodebe

(l-r) Grace Ezenobie, Samuel Noah & James Adaji

Mrs. Mario Okeke & Comrade Ben Ewuzieh

Mrs. Joy Ikediashi & Miss Seunniyi Oladokun

(l-r) Comrade Regent Youmor, Chief Nze George Ohanunma & Haji Bello

(l-r) Mr. Ibrahim & Mrs. Salimatu Afegbua & Mrs. Christiana Ogbolu

Mrs. Moreno Haniel Omoh & Sandra Kalu

Comrade Regent Youmor, Chief Nze George Ohanunma & Haji Bello

Mrs. Ngozi & Mrs. Ngozi Okutuo

Mr. Babatope & Mrs. Chioma Okere

(l-r) Shola Denja, Mrs. Mario Okeke, Mrs. Lola & Mr. Olorunfemi Olorunmonu

Mr.  James Adaji & NCAC RATTAWU Chairman, Comrade Ben Ewuzieh

(l-r) Mrs. Nnodebe, Comrade Regent Youmor, Chief Nze George Ohanunma & Haji Bello

Mrs. Mario Okeke, Mrs. Omolola & Miss Mercy Igbafe

Comrade Olorunfemi Olorunmoru & Mrs. Nneka Akwara

Mrs. Mario Okeke & Mrs. Omolola

(l-r) Agatha, Euphemia, Mrs. Chianugo, Mr. Asowata, Mr Iyoha, Aunty Bimbo, Otunba & Mrs. Ogbolu

(l-r) Mr Iyoha, Otunba, Mrs. Bimbo, Mrs. Chianugo & Mr. Asowata

(l-r) Mrs. Bimbo, Mr. Momoh Afegbua & Mrs. Euphemia Ewuzieh

(l-r) Mr. Shola Abiodun, Mr. Momoh Afegbua & Comrade Ben Ewuzieh

Mr. Francis Asowata & Artist Guobadia Monday

Mrs. Chinelo Nnodebe

Mrs. Mario Okeke, HOD CSP Presenting A Gift To Mr. Momoh Afegbua

Mrs. Mairo Okeke, HOD CSP Presenting A Gift To Mr. Lawrence Iyoha

Mr. Edwin Ezenobie & Mr. Victor Omoniyi

Mr Ibrahim & Mrs. Salimatu Afegbua With Mr. Momoh Afegbua

Cutting The Retirement Cake

Mr. Edwin Ezenobie, HOD Admin Presenting A Gift To Mr. Francis Asowata

Mrs. Christiana Ogbolu & Mr. & Mrs Lawrence Iyoha

Mr. Chinedu Agwuatu & Mr Laolu Banjoko

Mrs. Ngozi Okutuo & Miss Mercy Igbafe

Mrs. Stephenie Mbana, Mrs. Osunpidan

(l-r) Mr. David Oyelowo, Mr. Tajudeen Adetoye & Mr. Shola Denja

(l-r) Comrade Regent, Chief Nze & Haji Bello

Mr. Lawrence Iyoha & Mr. Edwin Ezenobie

(l-r) Mrs. Chinyelu Mark, Mr. Victor Ahuama & Mrs. Joy Okojie

Mr. Laolu Banjoko & Mr. James Adaji

NCAC RATTAWU Chairman, Comrade Ben Ewuzieh

Pastor Azubuike Ezeiwu

Mr. Larry Iyoha,  Mr. Edwin Ezenobie & Mr. Victor Omoniyi

Chief Nze George Ohanunma

Comrade Regent Youmor

HOD Account, Mrs. Christiana Ogbolu

 

Mrs. Agatha Akwaka & Mr. Pius Okhakia

Mr. Omoniyi, Mr. Momoh & Mr. Asowata

Osajie Shaggy Don Abraham & Adaeze Ikeh

Mrs. Chineyelu Mark & Mr. Victor Ahuama

Head of Lagos Zone, Mr. Victor Omoniyi & Mr. Momoh Afegbua

(l-r) Ifeoma Oraekwuotu, Mrs. Joy Okojie & Moreno Haniel Omoh

(l-r) Mr. Edwin Ezenobie, Mr. Victor Omoniyi, Mr. Momoh Afegbua

Mrs. Chiamaka Ezenwanne & Mrs. Stephenie Mbana

Mrs. Chiamaka Ezenwanne Filling Mrs. Iyoha's Cup For A Toast

Gabriel Okorie: The Trailblazer Of Nollywood SFX Makeup Design

By Perekeme Odon

Groundbreaking make-up artist, Gabriel Okorie is a Nigerian multiple award-winning filmmaker, actor, art director, production designer, a stunt coordinator, and of Africa’s most decorated makeup artist renowned for special effect make-up designs in the Nigerian motion picture industry; the global African brand tagged Nollywood.

Gabriel Okorie

Gabriel has lived a lot of life with a roster of clients far beyond his years and has been painting famous faces such as Omotola Ekeinde-Jalade, Genevieve Nnaji, Stephanie Okereke-Linus since far before he could start winning awards without parental consent.

Raised in Owerri, the capital of Imo state on the Eastern coast of Nigeria, Gabriel spent his childhood unconsciously creating all kinds of art while always feeling a gravitational pull towards drawing.

With over 26 years of industry experience, Gabriel’s status as one of the pioneer makeup artist in Nollywood is renowned and unparalleled. Having served at the Ogun State Council for Arts and Cultural, Abeokuta with the hope of securing a job with a bank or oil company, he found himself in Nollywood as an actor courtesy of Basorge Tariah Junior whom they served together until he met Zeb Ejiro at the audition of Faces.

Gabriel On A Pose With His Awards & Plaques

“After facing minor roles, one day I attended an audition and was cast to play a lead role in the movie ‘Faces’, but when Zeb Ejiro who was the director of the movie showed up, he signified his interest on someone younger to play the role since the character is meant to be in the secondary school. Afterward that encounter, Zeb Ejiro showed interest in me and introduced me to his brother, Chico Ejiro and his associates. ”

He was engaged in the Chico Ejiro’s Grand Touch Picture family as a production assistant even though he wanted to become an actor, but discovered his strongest point was not in acting and decided to take up makeup since he was good at sketching and hairstyling. Chico Ejiro noticed his drawing and styling skills and immediately sent him for further training to apprentice under the tutelage of the iconic Dagogo Diminas-Jack who recruited him into his professional production design management team, 13 FATMAN & Associates as a makeup assistant in 1995 to horn his skill in an age when the concept of beauty and special effect makeup was still new to Nigeria.

Gabriel has stayed current on the emerging techniques and a force to reckon with in the industry with major classical commercials and documentaries aside lending his magic touch to an array of films like, After School Hours, Lost Kingdom, King Jaja of Opobo, Out of Cage, festival of Fire, and Egg of Life amongst many others. With decades of experience in Nollywood, the list of players who rely on him day in and day out run long.

Gabriel Okorie On A Movie Set Of 'Call The Sun'

The filmmaker who developed an obsessive knowledge of the industry sees every job as a challenge. “I have been lucky enough to be surrounded by lots of talented creative minds, and have come to learn not to see any work as easy because if you do so, you may find yourself performing below expectations. What makes GabaZzini Koncept standout is because we take all genres of production seriously and don’t compromise standards. Even when a script is flat, we try on our best to bring life into it by creating good characterizations through makeup effects.” He declared.

The makeup designer world over is hired by the producer during pre-production and begins by reading the script. “He or she must identify the period, location, mood, and any specific descriptions in the text that must be reflected on the actor’s face; like scars, wounds, or other significant physical features. This is especially challenging when preparing for fantasy, classic, and epic productions comparable to Azima and Egg of Life. Depending on the skills of the designer, a special effects makeup designer may be hired to concentrate on latex work and other facial prosthetics.” He stated.

Gabriel Okorie & Prince Jide Kosoko On 'Posh Battle'

Since his first expedition to climb the Nollywood rock along with his talent and ingenuity, the Isiala Ngwa North, Abia State-born filmmaker who is popularly known as GabaZzini by his colleagues who generously shares his knowledge on filmmaking has gone on to achieve countless national and continental accolades.

His multiple awards include Best Makeup Artist, Pan Africa Movie Award in Ghana (2003); Best Achievement in Make-Up, Africa Movie Academy Awards (AMAA 2007 Azima,), Best Achievement in Make-Up (AMAA 2010 The Child); Best Make-Up Artist, Nigerian Movies Award (NMA 2012), The Mirror Boy, South East Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) Best Make-Up Artist 2010, 2012, 2015, and 2018 respectively. He also won the 2017 Golden Icons Academy Awards (GIAMA) Best Makeup Artist of the Year with the movie Invasion 1876 directed by Lancelot Oduwa-Imasuen. 

The Aladinma Housing Estate Primary School, Owerri alumnus got nominated at the 2013 Africa Magic Viewers’ Choice Award (AMVCA) with The Mirror Boy and missed narrowly to Jacqui Bannermen’s Otelo Burning. He was again nominated at the Best Art Director’s category with Stephanie Okereke’s Dry and Dagogo Diminas’ Stigma at the Best Makeup category in 2016 AMVCA respectively.  

The bachelor’s degree graduate of English Language and Literature of Abia State University, Uturu prominent make-up techniques have made him a favourite amongst the Nollywood crowd who are always inspired by his artistic art & design overflowing with beautiful make-ups put together through innovative creativity and artistic vision with his powerful make-up teams to provide insights into their astounding accomplishments that reveals timelessness in beauty.

Gabriel Okorie & Afro Beats Artist, Jaywon On Set

“The design process is about telling a story, and a makeup artist paints that story in colour. The actor emotes through his or her body and face, but it is the makeup designer’s task to enhance that emotion and help convey the character.” He asserted.

The NUJ graduate and University of Uyo post-graduate diploma in Dramatic Arts advises makeup artists to always endeavour to be creatively responsive to their craft with accepted standards of morality, respectability, and decency in expediting their duties. He indicated that “Costumiers and makeup artists get closer to the cast than any other member of the production staff. Dressing bodies and painting faces is an intimate process that requires someone who is both discreet and polite—it doesn’t hurt to be a good conversationalist (with sweet-smelling breath); stay current on emerging techniques. With time and several credits under your belt, you will make the steps forward from makeup assistant to artist and eventually designer. He professed.

The people that work in the effects industry are truly the artisans of the 21st century because it's based on art and not commerce. If the motivation was commerce and money-making, they sure would not be working in this industry but off working in more lucrative fields. Becoming a special effects makeup artist in Nollywood (or any other filmmaking hub) is a difficult proposition. You, therefore, need to get creative. That’s simply because, more so than in other areas of the film industry, the career path for special effects makeup artists is faced with stiff competition. This is increasingly true in all major cities with a thriving film community, cities like Asaba, Enugu, Owerri, and Jos…but especially Lagos. The sad truth is that there are more makeup artists than there are jobs unlike years ago when we started.

Gabriel Okoro With Actor Zubby Michael On Set

“We're in a very unique and special place in the FX industry. This may not always be the case but for the past 25 years that I've been in business, it has always been the case. If we have too much work on offer we pass it on to our nearest competitor. If we need someone, because we're overextended and need to meet a deadline, I'll ring our nearest competitor. Within the industry, we share staff and expertise.  We work with the considered thought that there are no secrets and within the model and creature effects industry there are publications where you can share all and everything that you've discovered and learned on each new film because it's the cross-pollination of ideas that allows the industry to grow.” He acknowledged.

At the dawn of the millennium in the year 2000, Gabriel gave back to the industry with the establishment of GabaZzini Koncept; a freelance advanced professional creative art and design company on a wild and wonderful roller coaster ride to inspired young and upcoming make-up artists, which has become a vital part of many professional make-up artists’ education.   

“Establishing GabaZzini Koncept 20 years ago is for my own professional development but also to share the knowledge gained over the years to people who are just starting. I'm as passionate today as the day I started out. For me, it has to be fulfilling creatively before anything else. Even if we are in need of work we will turn down opportunities if they are not creatively fulfilling do not offer a creative reward. All I want to do is impart knowledge and create,” he says. “I’m always thinking, what’s the legacy going to be. I want people to look back 20, 50, 100 years from now on my work and think, Damn, that was a time. GabaZzini Koncept will be celebrating its 20 years anniversary in December, and I give God the glory.”

Gabriel Okorie Ad Judas Iscariot On The Set Of 'Our Jesus Story'

Amongst many groups, the Emmanuel Secondary School, Owerri ex-student is a founding member of the Creative Designers Guild of Nigeria (CDGN) in 2002; a guild that oversees the functionality of costume, props, makeup, and property in the Nigerian motion picture industry. He is a member of the Actors Guild of Nigeria (AGN) and Association of Enugu state MC and Comedians.

Some of Okorie’s best-known film work includes Azima (2007), Azubuike Erinugha’s The Asylum (2010), The Child (2010), Obi Emelonye’s The Mirror Boy (2011), Obi Emelonye’s Last Flight To Abuja (2012), Dagogo Diminas’ Stigma (2013) and Stephanie Okereke’s Dry (2015). Others include Genevieve Nnaji’s Lion Heart (2017).

His hobbies are reading, writing, and creating. He is happily married with children.

Gabriel Okorie & Wife

GabaZzini Koncept

Awards & Plaques

 

 

 

 

 

Awards & Plaques

Gabriel On A Pose With His Awards & Plaques

 

 

 

GabaZzini In A Gun Pose Acting

Gabriel On The Set Of All For Love

Gabriel Giving Back To The Industry Through A Master Class Programme

Gabriel In A Pose With His Warriors

Gabriel Costuming Zack Orji

Production Design By GabaZzini Koncept

Gabriel On The Set Of 'Our Jesus Story'

Gentle Jack- Make-Up Design By GabaZzini Koncept

Gabriel Okorie As Art Director On Set Of 'SoulMate'

Gabriel Making Up Ebere Okaro On 'Men's Code'

God Never Takes Bribe: A Review Of Chiringo

By Don Kester Oshioreame

From a sociological perspective, the 22:46 minute short film by Ovunda Ihunwo (DGN), titled Chiringo (My God doesn’t take bribe) is a revisit of Marx’s theory of Class Class Struggle which basically thrives on the principle of social stratification that creates a marked delineation in fiscal, political, social, etc terms amongst people in society. 

Dr. Ovunda Ihunwo (DGN)

The Honourable, Nyemenuka Kpakota (Ovunda Ihunwo) effectively represented the bourgeoisie (political elite, put in specific terms) in society while Chiringo (Juliet Urenna) and her mother (Joy Success) were the proletariats; the plebs, oppressed, deprived, and disadvantaged in society. The story set in Rivers State (Ikwerre) is a simple plot woven around the apparent abuse of power and the advantages that come with it. The honourable ran for office to represent his people and attract development, but would rather deprive an indigent constituent of a scholarship opportunity to medical school and chose to offer his biological son the opportunity at the expense of a brilliant but indigent Chiringo who incidentally, came out tops at the entrance examination. All pleas to do the honourable thing by awarding the scholarship meant for the indigent, fell on deaf ears. In the characteristic manner of many a political elite, they would rather sacrifice merit and excellence on the altar of political party patronage and loyalty. However, in a twist of fortune, replete with Morality Plays, Chiringo eventually qualified as a medical doctor by the sheer resilience and sacrifice of her widowed mother. Then the Karmic law of retributive justice caused the path of honourable Nyemenuka Kpakota and Chiringo to cross again. As the leveler; COVID-19 would not permit many elites to embark on Medical Tourism, as usual, honourable was rushed to a middle-class clinic after a dramatic fainting episode whilst called to give an account of his stewardship in office. Incidentally, Chiringo was the doctor on duty, and the revelation ensues.

As a well-researched and scripted piece of satire, Chiringo probed the very fabric of our social structures; massive acts of corruption, the hypocrisy of the elites, maladministration, dysfunctional institutions, religious hypocrisy, perversion of justice, etc.

In terms of dramaturgy, Ovunda managed his cast for this short movie very well, cutting out irrelevant scenes and characters, which helped to focus on the basic thematic thrust of the story, which is justice. Again, it is relevant to underscore the use of apposite registers (which aided fluidity in language and dialogue) for the characters that in no little way made the script interesting, cerebral and professional. The character of the medical doctor stands out in this regard. It answers the question of research, which is mostly missing in many a script in Nollywood. 

The blend of vernacular and English language coupled with near-perfect subtitling made comprehension engaging and effective.

Ovunda Ihunwo (DGN)

Histrionics was near flawless by both major and supporting actors. Acting reeked of professionalism. The manner characters seamlessly walked in and out of different moods and emotions as the story progressed should be applauded. The chemistry was real and authentic which again calls to question one of the weaknesses that have dog tailed some movies over time; the evidence of lack of depth in characterization and believability in role interpretation owing to lack of rehearsal or the absence of an artistic director. This was not an issue in my view in Chiringo. Kudos must go to Ovunda who himself is not just a distinguished thespian but also a multi-talented lecturer in the University of Port Harcourt, Nigeria.

Visually, the locations though not much, rightly so, were on point; carefully chosen and managed effectively, as it enhanced the storytelling technique employed by the director, which to my mind is the Latin Media Res (in the midst of things). It is an avant-gardist approach to film narrative as it defies traditional persuasions. At the risk of sounding critical, many Nollywood enthusiasts have always pointed to the exotic and synthetic locale and scenic designs employed by many producers and directors alike which makes our visual interpretation somewhat unreal, if not fake. Our location must be in sync with our story. Our production elements must not stir conflict. This was another positive for Chiringo.

In terms of shots, we had a variety of them fitting for the mood of the situations in the scenes. Amazingly, the shots were not repetitive thus becoming boring. The use of flashback was not cliché, i.e. zoom into the face of the subject (narrator) then dissolve into the past event or use the predictable line of transition “This is my story” and at the end; “That was how it happened” the storytelling technique used by the director was fresh and innovative, if not radical.

The flavor of the local music added verve to the entire ambience. That was commendable.

 I wasn’t too sure the costume beneath the doctor’s coat worn by Dr, Chirongo. The pants looked rather too lengthy thus clumsy but the character managed it well by her brisk movement when she had to move around.

However, a major discrepancy in the entire production was a point of medical research especially within the precinct of the COVID-19 health protocol for health workers; it is required of medical personnel attending to patients in the Covid-19 season, to be properly kitted with face masks, hand gloves, also, washing of hands and use of sanitizers should have been prioritized.

Otherwise, Chiringo is an apt chronicle by a committed filmmaker who makes a serious effort at capturing for posterity an important epoch in national history; a time where public servants would rather faint when called to give an account of their stewardship, a time when public officers falsify documents to their own advantage just to renege their responsibility and subvert justice, a time where the elite thinks ill-gotten wealth can fetch them whatever they desire. 

I recommend this flick to everyone. It's a masterpiece.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dOmevbBwrNA

You Can't Put A Good Man Down

By Perekeme Odon

The rich man is a fool who dies without arranging his affairs to assure that his wealth does well during his lifetime and after his passing. The wealthier you become, the more you are giving to others. It's a rewarding way to live.

                                    

We have heard it said before that nothing could keep a good man down. Certainly, nothing can keep God's man down, for the good man knows no limitation of good and no hindrance in his expression of God’s works to others. What is there in the nature of genuine goodness that is irrepressible, unsinkable, and indomitable?

The difference between a rich man and a wealthy man is like the tiny line that separates love and hate. A lot of people don’t realize that being wealthy and rich are similar in relation to humans. Closing on both shows that wealth is not only the accumulation of assets but valuable possession and abundant supply.

A rich man thinks he is smart, but he is a parasite with no intention to create wealth and lacks the ability to help others. His main interest is the possession of money by skimming the system others have created.

This Benin-born Nigerian who journeyed from entrepreneur to becoming a quintessence philanthropist per excellence, shrewd investor, trained commercial pilot, and obviously one of Nigeria’s quiet and self-effacing billionaires was recognised at the 2020 World Day Against Human Trafficking by the National Agency for the Prohibition of Trafficking In Persons (NAPTIP)  as its anti-human trafficking hero.

The webinar event with the theme ‘Break The Chain’ saw him as an outstanding personality who has contributed to the fight against human trafficking in Edo state; furthermore wants the fight sustained and strategies used by relevant agencies reviewed and updated to meet up with global technological advancement.

According to the NAPTIP, “This man availed himself of the opportunity in marking his 60th birthday on the 16th of February 2018 to organise a public lecture on ‘Youth migration, consequences and current realities’

He is a household name and an acknowledged benefactor to numerous people as a prominent entrepreneur who is renowned for his philanthropic works like Warren Buffet, Bill & Melinda Gates, Gordon, and Betty Moore, Mo Ibrahim of Sudan, Jeff and Mackenzie Bezos and Michael Bloomberg in Edo states who have found him as God’s help by putting smiles on their faces through arts, academics and profitable empowerment with no media hypes or reportage. The axiom: charity begins at home is depicted by his respect for cultural values.

He has distinguished himself with his uncommon display of love compared to many wealthy Nigerians who prefer to live in their comfort zones and not give back to society especially to stem human trafficking, which is a threat to human dignity.

He was born in Benin City, Edo State on January 7, 1958, into a privileged family of a reverend clergyman, teacher, and community leader.

Prior to his retirement at the age of 30 as a pilot in 1988; like the proverbial palm tree planted by the riverside, he weathered the Nigerian business storm to conquer challenges in all scopes of air, sea, and land where he served favourably as board chairman and director on innumerable establishments, traversing several business sectors like the agro-allied, telecommunication, power, real estate, petroleum, and banking industries.

In 2012, the American Congress recognized him as Africa Titan for his contributions to Niger Delta in arts and culture with the premiere of the Hollywood movie ‘Black November’ directed by Jetta Amata that he independently bankrolled to raise a voice for the Niger Delta dilemma his Wells Entertainments Ltd.

The man, whose laudable contributions to peace, progress, and visible development of the economy of Edo state cannot be denied, believes the future of Nigeria is in agriculture sold his private jet to invest in a farming project. In March 2016, he established and unveiled a $750 million; 9,000-hectare (27,000-acre) farm intended to create 85,000 jobs in Edo State, youth empowerment, and foreign export.

In 2018, the highly technological advancement project produced its first indigenous fruit of the farm with an estimated tomatoes production of 4, 300 tones per year, and projected revenue of $6 million per year in 2018.

On December 15, 2018, history was made as he officially inaugurated the surreally exquisitely furnished five-star luxury hospitality hotel, majestically situated in the plush of the highbrow Asokoro District of Abuja to combat unemployment and provide an opportunity for fun-seekers, local and international guests that desire outstanding hotel service. He admitted his dream was to replicate such projects across cities of the world so that Nigeria could have a hospitality brand to compete with the likes of Transcorp Hilton and other global brands.

 

Entrepreneurs apply the same rigour and disciplines from the world of commerce to the charitable sector, which suggests there is in fact a science to giving at this level that can be replicated and learned from.

Philanthropy is a broad conceptual term that is fuzzy around the edges and sounds rather grand. But, this man has helped redefine what it means to champion a cause one personally cares about to encapsulate how philanthropy is practised today and reclaim the word for a modern world.

Charitable foundations created by this wealthy man often provide the financial muscle to empower great social and environmental causes. The exploitation of the poor may bring riches, but giving value brings happiness and fulfilment of true wealth. By giving more value than he receives, success has become a measure of the part of his life.

According to him, one doesn’t have to be wealthy to be a philanthropist to help create a better world and make a difference. A lot can be learned from this practised entrepreneur and philanthropic man against some democratized super-rich individuals who might be hard to reach and do little or nothing before the cameras. The power of entrepreneurial philanthropy lies in empowering others to help them and seize opportunities for betterment advancement.

When a society is filled with wealthy people, there is a narrow gap between the have and have not, but when it is filled with rich people, the rich will get richer in the name of inflation that eventually leads to a breakdown of society. If the philanthropic potential of the population in Nigeria is to be realized, government, charities, and businesses need to understand giving as a life-long journey, rather than as a series of unrelated acts.

This man is not like the rich man who makes himself rich and others poor, but a wealthy good man and employer of labour who creates riches and income for others in abundance as his philanthropy speaks loud and volumes and has become a reference point in admonition and encouragement.

His spontaneous benevolent act was witnessed recently as he awarded a scholarship to Master Moses Oseghale, a student of Auchi Polytechnic who designed an aircraft to study aeronautical engineering abroad; and also transformed the life of a woman, an itinerant service supplier N3m to purchase a truck to enhance her business. This happened when she came to supply drinks bought from her and her hired supply trucks broke down. On the instant, he once again displayed his benevolence by giving money to buy her own truck to further enhance her business. This is true wealth in humanity.

There are different perceptions of philanthropy associated with the super-wealthy, but this prominent son of the Benin Kingdom whose love and trust have inspired generously and encompassed the broad concept gestures of benevolence to the lives of students, youths, dressmakers, bakers, tailors, shoemakers, market women, most prominently Artiste of all Arts, filmmakers, musicians, cultural groups, fine Artist, etc, and as many that have come his way thus encouraged young people to draw inspiration from his story and dare things beyond them.

His motivated pervasive influence within the field of philanthropy stems more than anything from his giveaways to charity is often revealed in his personal experiences and personal values to people.

It is a fact that just recently, he joined exclusive benevolent sons and daughters of Edo State to bequeath generously to the Edo state COVID-19 relief campaign fund.

He is a native speaker of the Edo language and a fluent speaker of English. He believes the purpose of our lives is to be happy and stands for the humanitarian concept that stated life without love is like a tree without blossoms or fruit.

                                      

On October 2, 2014, the Bini traditional ruler of Edo state, the Oba of Benin, His Royal Majesty, Omo N'Oba N'Edo Uku Akpolokpolo, Oba Erediauwa gifted Captain Hosa with the ‘Traditional Beads’. The bead is given to sons and daughters of Benin who have distinguished themselves and have been a source of pride.

Captain Dr, Hosa Wells Okunbo is a man with infrequent courage who has made us reflect our belief that by being generous, leaders can substantially improve society, their businesses, and themselves with increasingly effective giving.

He is a happy father of 11 children and the husband of Nosa. He is my benefactor and Chairman, Board of Directors, Wells Entertainment Ltd.