Slide 1: Photograph taken during The Aro Punitive Expedition of 1901. Presumed to be a group of Aro natives/warriors. Photographer: Unknown The Anglo–Aro War was a bitter conflict between the Aro Confederacy and the British Empire from December 1901 to March 1902, and although the battle eventually ended in defeat for the Aro side, the war remains one of the most significant in Nigerian/Igbo history 📑 As far back as the 17th century, the Arochukwu people (popularly known as the #Aro) dominated commerce, politics, and religion in the southeastern hinterland region. Although their active participation in the Atlantic slave trade has been the subject of many heated debates over the decades, their historical influence cannot be questioned. Controlling a powerful oracle (famously called The Long Juju shrine), multiple trade routes, and establishing alliances with several neighboring Igbo and eastern Cross River states, the Aro Confederacy soon became a force to be reckoned with — and a longstanding hindrance to the British colonists. The Aros knew that British penetration into the hinterland would disrupt their dominance; they also saw the advancement of Christianity as a cunning ploy to capture Aro territories. On their part, the colonists claimed to have only pure intentions, merely wishing "to abolish slave trade which is secretly carried on throughout the entire territories belonging to the Aros.” Thus, the British's anti-slavery policy became a convenient platform for their wider imperial agenda, which in turn led to several years of political unrest and failed negotiations, reaching a tipping point when the Aros attacked the British-controlled city of Obegu 🪖 In response, a formal military operation was launched against Aro in November 1901. According to the records, on November 28, Lieutenant H. F. Montanaro led 87 officers, 1,550 soldiers and 2,100 carriers on a counter-insurgency campaign, blowing up the Long Juju shrine in the process. True to their nature, the Aros fought back, commencing a 3-month stand-off with the British which involved a series of bloody battles... [Cont'd in comments ⤵️] #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #ForYou
Thrilled to announce Anetta Mangxaba as one of our esteemed speakers for AMP 2024. Join us for a deep dive into the world of independent community media in South Africa. Despite facing formidable challenges, independent media outlets like Anetta’s Dizindaba, an isiXhosa language publication, persist in delivering crucial journalism work. Gain insights into the stories behind their resilience, the daunting obstacles they confront, and the indispensable role they play in upholding democratic values through their reporting. Don’t miss out on this enlightening discussion at AMP 2024! Save the date and secure your spot now! Register on AMP2024.com. #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
Celebrating our beautiful women of power at the 2024 Liberian Atlanta presidential visit. #explore #explorepage #africanmedia #media #entertainment #like #comment #follow #subscribe
Mapi Mhlangu, a powerhouse with over two decades of media experience, brings her expertise to AMP 2024! As founder and managing director of MInsight Content Creation, she will be part of a dynamic session on the power of niche media. In this session, you’ll learn: How to identify your niche and passionate audience Strategies to build a loyal community around your niche Content creation that resonates deeply with your niche market Innovative revenue models designed for niche media success Don’t miss this chance to learn from Mapi and a stellar panel! Secure your spot at AMP2024.com and unlock the power of niche media domination! #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
Slide 1: A war tower built in the 18th century in Ukpor (present-day Anambra State) by a man referred to as Dike Madueke. According to the Nigerian Arts and Culture Directory, the tower was/is one of the last standing towers of this kind from that century. At the height of the Atlantic slave trade, with violent raids hitting Igboland the hardest during the 18th century, the construction of watch towers became increasingly common, particularly in the northern, lower lying [Igbo] regions. Known as “uno-aja” or “obuna enu” in Igbo language, these fortified towers were generally two or three storeys high with a small doorway on an upper floor which could be accessed with a ladder. According to a research study carried out by renowned archaeologist Anselem Ibeanu in the 1980s, the towers served as both a look-out and a refuge, particularly for women and children, when a settlement was under attack. Some were rectangular in shape and others circular, constructed from concentric mud courses, with small apertures for windows 📌 During a tour of the Awka District in 1910-1911, Northcote Thomas took photographs of these war towers, one of which was located in Awgbu (slide 3). Sadly, none of his field notes survived, and only oral descriptions of the towers remain, as well as a handful of precious images and sketches. However, it's worth noting that Thomas actually captioned his tower photographs as “storehouses”, which implies that these defensive structures likely served a different purpose in a compound once the threat of attack had passed. This gives us valuable insight into how our people protected themselves and their families in times of warfare and turbulence. Have you heard about these towers before? Engage with us in the comments! ⏬ Research resource: reentanglements.com 📷: Center For Memories; @ukpuru #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #ForYou #Trending #Architecture
The future of African storytelling is in bold hands, and independent media is leading the charge. AMP 2024 is thrilled to welcome Lebogang Maphada, senior investment officer at MDIF! Lebogang will be a key voice in a session exploring innovative approaches that are shaping African media. Join us as we delve into: 📚 Fresh narratives and captivating storytelling techniques 💻 The exciting opportunities and pressing challenges of the digital age 🔍 The critical role independent media plays in holding power accountable 🌍 Elevating African voices to resonate on the global stage This is your chance to be part of the conversation shaping the future of African independent media. Secure your spot at AMP2024.com and join us in amplifying Africa’s stories! #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
Considered a touchy subject in historical studies (and understandably so), wars were a common occurrence in various parts of Africa and Nigeria during the pre-colonial era, often taking place when diplomacy and other non-violent tactics failed to resolve serious disputes. Conflicts of this nature were triggered by a variety of economic, political, territorial, spiritual and cultural factors, which sometimes escalated into intra-group, inter-group and eventually, colonial-related wars. Although war should never be encouraged nor glamorourized, much of what we know about warfare in pre-colonial Igboland, for instance, has been skewed by European and Western thought, with very limited research carried out on the environmental and global influences on these wars, the technological and military strategies used, the notable organizational skills of the warriors, or even the production of our ancient weaponry 🛡️ Through Igbo literature and oral history we learn that Ndigbo celebrated a warrior-like society with some of the best trained and highly respected warriors in the region. In terms of armour, they often wore a fibre helmet (okpu agha), which was made out of coarse plant fibres; woven fibre chestplates to protect their torsos, and carried handcrafted shields (ekpeke). Weapons included: bows and arrows (aku na uta); daggers (abreba); composite swords and knives with wooden hilts and iron blades, which became more popular with the rise of Awka blacksmithing; and flintlock guns (egbe or ‘flinte’), which often came with a removable goatskin cover to protect the gun powder from the elements. In civil or intra-village wars (ogu) likely to involve kinsmen, weapons were used with caution, as killing relations was traditionally abhorred. But in inter-state wars (agha or ogu egbe) weapons were more freely used. Certain military codes were also observed which exempted women, children and visiting traders, as well as markets and shrines from attacks. ➡️ Swipe to see some interesting pictures from the 18th-19th century and stay tuned for part 2️⃣‼️ Research resource: www.nigerianjournalsonline.com 📷: @ukpuru; @okwuid #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #trending
The independent media landscape is a battlefield, and standing out can feel like an impossible feat. But what if the secret weapon isn’t going broader, but focusing your energy on a passionate niche? AMP 2024 is excited to welcome Catherine Gicheru, director of the African Women in Journalism project at MDIF, all the way from Kenya! She will be part of a session designed to equip you with the tools to dominate your chosen space. You’ll learn: 🎯 The power of identifying your niche and understanding your most passionate market. 🔍 Proven strategies for building a loyal community around your niche, fostering a space where your audience feels truly seen and heard. 💡 Content creation that resonates deeply, crafted specifically to engage and empower your niche audience. Don’t miss this chance to learn from a media powerhouse and refine your focus for ultimate impact. Secure your spot at AMP2024.com and join the path to niche domination! #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
Deepfakes got you worried? Feeling lost in a sea of misinformation? Dr Meli Ncube, postdoctoral research fellow at Stellenbosch University, is here to help! Join our exclusive masterclass at AMP 2024 and learn: ❌ How to spot a deepfake from a mile away 🌟 Powerful techniques to verify information and expose disinformation 🚀 Strategies to become a fact-checking ️pro Dr Ncube will equip you with the skills to be a champion for factual reporting. Don’ miss this chance to level up your media literacy! Secure your spot at AMP2024.com. #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
📌Media production 🎨🎬Not only do we know media, we know who’s using which media , because we specialize in generating a wide range of creative elements that encompass audio and visual. components.. #filmmaking #intareels #africanmedia #radio #video #mediaproduction
𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮 𝗶𝗻𝗻𝗼𝘃𝗮𝘁𝗼𝗿𝘀, 𝘂𝗻𝗶𝘁𝗲! We’re excited to announce Nolwazi Tusini, programme director of Amplify South Africa, as our facilitator for the session on innovative funding models for community and public good media at AMP 2024! Nolwazi, a champion for independent media, will lead us on a deep dive into the independent media landscape, focusing on solutions for a sustainable future. Amplify South Africa was designed to equip organisations with the tools and skills to: 💰 Craft innovative funding strategies 🚀 Expand audience reach 🔎 Explore new business models Ready to join a community of media changemakers? Reserve your seat on AMP2024.com! Don’t miss this chance to elevate your impact. #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
Our next Collaboration created by @marcmandisoul Dunamis:The Power & the Glory. Casting call. Zimbabwean film to the next level!!!!! #localfilm #zimbabwe #lazisunday #film #africanfilm #africanmedia
16/05/2024 Official Opening of the 3rd African Media Convention under the theme “Enhancing Freedom, Innovation and Environmental Sustainability in a Dynamic Media Landscape”. The Convention was officially opened by the Chief of Staff at the Office of the President, Hon. Mrs. Akosua Frema Osei Opare. #media #pressfreedom #africanmedia #amc2024 #fatimatuabubakar #accraghana
The Anioma-British War, popularly referred to as Ekumeku or Ekwumekwu, took place between 1883-1914, and has been described as one of the most bravely fought campaigns against British rule in the 19th century. The Anioma people saw the socio-economic activities of the English in their region as a threat; an invasion that must be resisted at all costs. Employing their usual brute force, the British attempted to subdue the masses, stoking the flames of what would eventually become the Ekumeku movement ⚔️ Although there are varying interpretations, the word Ekumeku can be loosely translated as "do not talk about it" or "not to be spoken about" in Igbo language – a befitting name, since the movement was shrouded in so much mystery, with members sworn to secrecy about its origins, operational bases and plans. Confidentiality was necessary to ensure the group's survival in the face of better-equipped enemies. However, the Ekumeku’s ability to strike quickly and quietly was a key factor in their success, as they employed local knowledge of the forest environment to launch ambushes on their targets 🎯 Following several violent clashes with the Igbo-speaking locals, the British first invaded Ndoni and bombarded Onicha-Ado on 2 November, 1897. This set the scene for the brewing war. Then on 8 January 1898, the Royal Niger Company launched an attack on the people of Ibusa. This escalated into the first phase of the Ekumeku rising, and despite being ill-equipped and unprepared, the Anioma people vowed to go down fighting. After almost 20 years of warfare, the British sent a powerful expedition to the Anioma kingdom in December of 1904, destroying farms and communities thought to be associated with the #Ekumeku movement. Bent but not broken, the people retreated, and after two years, much to everyone’s great surprise, the Ekumeku resistance made a lethal comeback. Crediting the brave, young warriors, Philip Igbafe writes: "the ability to manipulate their Age Grade system and other associations, building an extensive network of communication throughout the whole of Anioma must be applauded.” [Cont'd in the comments ⏬] 📷: @ukpuru #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory
Independent and grassroots media are the lifeblood of our communities, but they face an uphill battle. Limited resources and a rapidly changing media landscape threaten to silence these vital voices. AMP 2024 is proud to announce Dr Kate Skinner, executive director of the Association of Independent Publishers (AIP), as a speaker. Join us for a critical conversation about innovative funding models that can empower independent media to thrive. Don’t miss this chance to be ignited by Dr Skinner’s expertise on the AIP’s pioneering strategies! Secure your spot at AMP2024.com and be part of the solution! #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
Register for this FREE course on Freedom of Expression in the African Media & Digital Policy Landscape. Explore vital topics like access to information, online freedoms, and combating disinformation. Lessons starts 20 May! Register now: https://www.edx.org/learn/media-law/stellenbosch-university-freedom-of-expression-in-the-african-media-and-digital-policy-landscape Don't miss out! #FreeCourse #FreedomOfExpression #africanmedia
Thrilled to announce that Dhimant Parekh, the visionary co-founder of The Better India, will be joining us at AMP 2024! This computer science engineer and business school graduate, has a truly inspiring story. Together with his wife, Anuradha, they built a media powerhouse that captures the hearts and minds of 200 million Indians every month. Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to hear Dhimant’s insights on: ✨ Building a thriving independent media platform 💡 The power of positive storytelling and impactful journalism 🏢 Innovative revenue models for the African media landscape Register on amp2024.com. #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
#BiafraAwarenessMonth 🔆 Igbo songs and literature are rich with stories of our experiences, struggles, and successes. A significant aspect of traditional Igbo art is ‘abu agha' (our war songs). The impact of these songs in inspiring and uniting the people was evident during the Women's War of 1929. Similarly, records show that war songs were widely popular among Biafran soldiers during the Biafra War. "Land of the Rising Sun" served as the national anthem of the Republic of Biafra, reflecting the spirit of its people. The lyrics capture the love for the land, the motivation to persevere, and the willingness to pay the ultimate price for freedom, all expressed in four poignant verses. In Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie’s "Half of a Yellow Sun," we catch a glimpse of the anthem's influence as it is played in different scenes in the movie, inspiring a sense of renewed hope and determination 🌤️ The Biafran national anthem was based on Nnamdi Azikiwe’s poem, "Onitsha Ado N’Idu: Land of the Rising Sun," and its melody was derived from the song "Finlandia" by Jean Sibelius. Even today, hearing the anthem evokes a flood of memories and emotions for many—reminding them of uncles, brothers and fathers lost to the war, and of grandmothers' tales shared under the starry night skies. Are you familiar with the anthem? Engage with us in the comments ⬇️ 📽️: Stenforms (YT); Half of a Yellow Sun (YT) #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #Biafra
Ms. Irina Misha, representing Ubuntu Tribe, interviews Ray Youssef, CEO of Noones. The AllAfrica Media Leaders Summit is a significant event that brings together key stakeholders in the African media industry to discuss the role of media in shaping the continent's future. The theme for this year's summit is "Re-engineering African Media in Times of Critical Transformation." About: Noones seeks to bring empowerment through financial communication and transactions. Come catch Ray Youssef at the Ubuntuverse with his talk "Bridging Financial Divides: NoOnes’ Role in Creating Accessible Markets." @ubuntu.tribe.one @raycivkit @noones.app @iren.misha @allafricafr @allafricamedia @allafricamedia.fr #Noones #UbuntuTribe #AfricanMedia #FinancialEmpowerment #AccessibleMarkets #allafricamediasummit #togetherwerise
Read our full article on the life and times of Nnamdi Azikiwe to learn about his rapid rise to prominence in the Nigerian political landscape, his family life and the slightly controversial connection he had to the Biafran movement 👀📌 Visit www.nzukobrand.com/articles/azikiwe and feed your curiosity! #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #NZUKONnamdiAzikiweSeries
The second part of our #NZUKONnamdiAzikiweSeries is now available for you to watch on YouTube!! 🎉 This time, we traveled to the Nnamdi Azikiwe Center, also known as Zik House, in Enugu. Commissioned in 2022, the center is home to a vast collection of historical artifacts and rare memorabilia such as handwritten letters, books from Azikiwe’s personal library, historic photographs and speeches, and even a selection of vibrant outfits from iconic moments in Zik’s life stands on display. Join us for an enlightening day at the center, as Nnamdi Azikiwe’s youngest son, Uwakwe Azikiwe, shares stories about his father and takes us on a tour of the establishment! #LinkInBio 🌟Watch NOW on youtube.com/@NZUKOBrand and subscribe to the channel 🌟Be sure to watch, share, like and leave your comments on the video 👀 🎥Producer: NZUKO Brand (@igbohistory) #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #NnamdiAzikiwe
Forget everything you thought you knew about data. It’s time to supercharge your bottom line and ditch the vanity metrics that go nowhere. Dr Clare Cook, the global queen of digital news revenue models (seriously, she’s been on this for 14 years!), is gracing us with a keynote address that will explode the data myths holding African media back. Is your data a locked fortress gathering dust? Are you impressing donors but your bank account isn’t singing? Dr Cook’s got the answers to these burning questions and more. Join us for AMP 2024 in Stellenbosch, South Africa and learn how to turn “data” from a confusing buzzword into your secret weapon for independent media success. Register on amp2024.com. #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
THIS WEEK ON NAKED GOLD ONLINE . COM New Articles with Diaspora News, Global Events & Popular Culture including pieces on #AmandaSeales #Tyla #Sudan #Palestine #KendrickLamar #Congo #Drake #Ghana & More!!!! 📕🌍🌍🌍🚨📝📝 Visit the site today! NAKEDGOLDONLINE.COM • • #diaspora #blacknews #africanmedia #africanews #hiphop #kattwilliams #may #notlikeus #euphoria
For the second part of our mini Nnamdi Azikiwe series, we spent some time at the old Premier’s Lodge of the defunct Eastern Region, and a former presidential residence, which has now been turned into the Nnamdi Azikiwe memorial center in Enugu ✨ While there, we learnt about the contributions that historically black universities (popularly known as HBCUs) made in molding and developing leaders in the struggle for the independence of African countries. Several outspoken anti-colonial activists and prominent politicians in Anglophone West Africa, such as Dr. Nnamdi Azikiwe, graduated from America’s black universities. Not only did he bag a degree from Lincoln University in Pennsylvania (one of America’s first HBCUs and one of the first to award a bachelor’s degree to a person of African descent), he also went on to study at Howard University before proceeding to the University of Pennsylvania and Columbia University in the years to come! Daryl Poe, author of Kwame Nkrumah’s contribution to Pan-Africanism, notes that: “what the HBCUs did for the African liberation struggle was that they took the African intelligentsia and gave them a sense of historical conscience and expectation for equality”. It is therefore not surprising that in the months leading up to independence, and especially in the early days of the African renaissance in the 1940s and 50s, the alumni of HBCUs – like Azikiwe and Nkrumah – not only returned home with a renewed sense of possibility and hope for their country's educational systems, but also held positions of prominence in many African governments 📌 Curious to learn more about Azikiwe’s personal story and rise to prominence in Nigerian politics? Join us for an immersive trip to the Nnamdi Azikiwe Centre! Watch out for the YouTube video dropping this week and don't forget to subscribe to our channel if you don't want to miss it 😉 Swipe to see photographs >>> #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #NnamdiAzikiwe #HBCU
AMP 2024 is honoured to welcome William Shoki, a prominent South African writer and scholar, as a speaker! His insightful work as editor at Africa Is A Country, alongside his contributions to publications like Jacobin, Verso, and The New York Times, solidify him as a leading voice in contemporary African discourse. Join William and a distinguished panel for a deep dive into: • Innovative storytelling: Explore how African creators are using new formats and techniques to share powerful narratives. • Digital frontiers: Discuss the challenges and opportunities presented by the digital age for African independent media. • Independent voices, global stage: Examine the crucial role independent media plays in holding power accountable and amplifying African perspectives on the world stage. Register on amp2024.com. #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia
Founded by Nnamdi Azikiwe and his colleagues on 18 May 1955, but formally opened on 7 October 1960, the University of Nigeria, Nsukka (UNN) is a federal institution located in Nsukka, Enugu State. According to research, Azikiwe set up the Eastern Nigeria Development Corporation and, after a law to establish the university was passed under the joint aegis of the Inter-University Council for Higher Education and the International Cooperation Administration, began solidifying plans for the school. In 1958, alongside a number of respected scholars and educators from around the world, Azikiwe surveyed the vast site at Nsukka, carrying out extensive investigations over the next few months and garnering the necessary support for the project. Said to have been modelled after Michigan State University, the historic Nigerian institution’s foundation stone was laid during the celebration of Nigeria's independence in 1960 📚 Classes began later that same year with an enrollment of 220 students and 13 members of the academic staff, making it the first indigenous and autonomous university in Nigeria, the first university established by a Nigerian Regional Government, and in 1963, the first institution to award Nigerian degrees. It's worth noting, however, that in September 1967, the university was (temporarily) renamed the University of Biafra. We recently explored the Nnamdi Azikiwe Centre in Enugu, discovered more about Zik's educational philosophy, and learnt how one Igbo leader brought his dream of a higher standard of education for his people to life. Stay tuned for more snippets and details from our time at the centre! 👀 #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #Azikiwe #UNN
Honoured to welcome Khadija Patel, a renowned South African investigative journalist, as a speaker at AMP 2024! Her work has been published by major international outlets like Sky News, Al Jazeera, Quartz, BBC World News, and The Guardian. Join Khadija and a distinguished panel for a lively discussion on: 🌟 Innovative approaches shaping African storytelling 🚀 The digital age’s impact on African media 🌍 Independent media’s role in holding power accountable and amplifying African voices globally Don’t miss this chance to learn from one of Africa’s leading investigative voices. Register on amp2024.com. #AMP2024 #AfricaMediaPerspectives #AfricanMedia @foodformzansi
🤨🤦🏾Let’s not give up on them🤣 #kemeticscienceinstitute #kemeticscience #charlotte #supportmelanatedbusiness #discipline #nationbuilding #afroworld #melanin #goddesses #royal #kemet #ancestors #knowthyself #knowledgeispower #Africa #African #africanyouth #blackcommunity #africanhistory #London #africandiaspora #africanmedia #westafricantiktok #westafricancommunity #westafrican #eastafrican #africancarribean #africandiaspora #africanamerican
Our #NZUKOExclusive interview with the lovely Professor Uche Azikiwe is out now on YouTube!!! 😀 Come along as we pay homage to the great Zik of Africa, learn more about his legacy as a family man, and enjoy some never-before-seen photographs as we connect with his widow at their family home in Nsukka, Enugu State! 🌟Watch NOW on youtube.com/@NZUKOBrand and subscribe to the channel #LinkInBio 🌟Be sure to watch, share, like and leave your comments on the video 👀 🎥Producer: NZUKO Brand (@igbohistory)
#NZUKONnamdiAzikiweSeries 💫 Widely regarded as one of Nigeria’s most prominent pro-independence political leaders, Nnamdi Azikiwe frankly needs no introduction. However, outside of politics and his public life, very little is known about the enigmatic statesman who was also a father, husband, brother and friend. Who was Nnamdi Azikiwe behind closed doors? What dreams and fears kept him up at night? What was the quality of his love? In a bid to answer these and other questions about the man behind the name, his legacy and his personal life, we sat down with Professor Uche Azikiwe – a beloved Nigerian scholar, educator, author and the wife/widow of the deceased Igbo leader – in an NZUKO Exclusive interview ✨ Endowed with an enviable combination of versatile skills, Zik, as he was affectionately called, excelled in journalism, oration, sports and politics, going on to become Nigeria’s first and only indigenous Governor-General following independence in 1960, and later, the first president at the beginning of the First Republic from 1963 to 1966. Intelligent, self-assured and always composed in his approach, he deftly straddled the fence between diplomacy and controversy, earning him the respect of millions around the globe. Join us tomorrow on YouTube as we pay a visit to Onuiyi Haven, the Azikiwe family’s residence located in Nsukka, Enugu State, where we take you on an intimate exploration and deep dive into the inner world of the Owelle-Osowa-Anya of Onitsha, the great Zik of Africa! 📍 Haven’t subscribed to our YouTube channel? Tap the link in our bio to do so now! #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #NnamdiAzikiwe #NZUKONnamdiAzikiweSeries #Zik
Enterprising, resourceful and ambitious, the Igbo ethnic group has always been characterized by the people’s need for socio-economic independence. Over the decades, this tenacity has earned Ndigbo a global reputation as being fiercely competitive business people. For the Igbos, wealth creation is seen as a core element in the development efforts of an individual, as generating income is traditionally associated with hardwork and high personal values. Contrary to the materialism and greed that now drives the world, our forefathers saw wealth as an indication of one’s perseverance and business acumen; a testament of one’s ability to strive and thrive. A deep study of the way of life, philosophy of culture and the spirituality of Ndigbo (all referred to as Odinani) provides us with ancient principles and timeless wisdom about wealth creation and legacy building 💫 In Igbo, “muta aka olu” means to learn a skill or handwork. Great value has always been placed on skill and knowledge acquisition in Igbo culture, and as such, the principle of Muta aka olu holds that after a certain age each person in the society should be assigned to a mentor or sent to an institution of training to learn a skill they can rely on in life. Idleness and laziness were frowned upon in Igbo society, and only continuous self-improvement was applauded. This is the principle on which the Igbo apprenticeship system is based; in order to succeed, one must first be willing to learn, be of service, and then pass on that knowledge to others. The principle of “igba mbo” (which literally means "the dance of diligence”) is all about the hustle and grind. Igba mbo encourages each person to remain persistent and steadfast in pursuit of one’s dreams. Since life is a continuous journey, failure and economic struggle are merely seen as a necessary step; never as a reason to give up 🚫 “Igo ofo” reminds us to be upright and fair in all of our dealings, regularly committing our affairs into the hands of God, our ancestors, and all the natural forces assigned to guide us through life... [Cont'd in the comments ⤵️] #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #Money
WATCH. this. _SPaCE #africanmedia #zimbabwe #africanfilm #zimhiphop #zimhiphopawards #zimcelebs #afrobeats
Media Buzzzz!📈 Summer 2024. The Real Kasa Begins. Ooo I’m Ready !!🔥📺 #realkasanation #realkasashow #realkasa #youngpoku #summer2024 #mediabuzz #explorepage✨ #africa #africanmedia
Slides 2 & 3: Photographs of a Chi shrine at Nkarahia (located in the Ikwerre-speaking region of present day Rivers State) with inset imported plates and bottles. Captured by P. Amaury Talbot, 1910s. Few concepts have provoked as much debate among scholars of Igbo ontology as the concept of the chi, not only due to its intricacy as a topic, but also because each person has an intimate relationship with their chi, and therefore, a unique way of understanding and interacting with it. However, as Chinua Achebe once wrote, without a basic grasp of the nature of chi one cannot begin to make sense of the Igbo worldview. For Ndigbo, each human being is composed of body and soul, physical and spiritual. Thus, it is believed that man (mmadu) possesses the spark or creative essence of God simply known as chi. So, while Chukwu or Chineke (the Supreme God) creates and gives life, man is linked to this creator through their personal guardian spirit, who pilots the day to day activities of human beings 🌌 It is said that everyone has their own chi, and no two individuals have the same one. Serving as a mediator between God and each person, chi remains with the individual from birth to death. Because of the emphasis our ancestors placed on the notion of duality, chi was/is often visualized as a spiritual and energetic reflection of one’s human form. In his philosophical investigation of the nature of God, Celestine Mbaegbu explains: “to his personal god, the traditional Igbo man or woman prays as he/she does to other gods. In most of these prayers, the individual asks for long life, material blessings, guidance and above all, for success in life. Individual god (chi) is the final determinant of man’s failure or success”. Since Ndigbo often use metaphors, poetry and proverbs to explain the universe and the place of man in it, popular sayings such as, “ihe chi dere, o dego ya (what chi has written is written) and “onye kwe, chi ya ekwe” (when one says yes, his chi is in agreement with him) go a long way in capturing the significance of #chi... 📸: @ukpuru Resource: jstor.org/chi #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #Reels
🇹🇬Togo has paused its parliamentary elections indefinitely. Amidst the controversial constitution change, the nation’s presidency announces a second postponement this year. Critics also claim that it’s a ploy to prolong President Gnassingbé’s rule, sparking widespread controversy. Head to our bio for the full report and join our WhatsApp channel for more on African news ⬆️ #togo #africannews #togoelections #togolese #africanpolitics #africanstories #africanmedia #okayafrica
Repost • @colette_otusheso As my mentor @herbertowigwe would say “Let’s keep pushing, the journey continues… #creating #AFearlessLegacy #africanmedia At this year’s @nifsummit in Paris. I will be sharing my knowledge and insights into building a successful African media value chain. From the strategic growth of @accelerate_tv #acceleratestudios @accelerate_plus and our recently launched movies channel @acceleratemovies as well as the importance of our ongoing training for young people in TV, Film and the creative sector and our plans for growth, collaboration, opportunities and our huge goals for 2024 and beyond. #NIFSummit #nitvsummitparis #africanmedia #acceleratetv #thejourneycontinues
As my mentor @herbertowigwe would say “Let’s keep pushing, the journey continues… #creating #AFearlessLegacy #africanmedia At this year’s @nifsummit in Paris. I will be sharing my knowledge and insights into building a successful African media value chain. From the strategic growth of @accelerate_tv #acceleratestudios @accelerate_plus and our recently launched movies channel @acceleratemovies as well as the importance of our ongoing training for young people in TV, Film and the creative sector and our plans for growth, collaboration, opportunities and our huge goals for 2024 and beyond. Posted @withregram • @ijayonah MEET OUR SPEAKERS FOR NITV SUMMIT 2024. These seasoned and renowned professionals from the TV, media, and broadcast industry, will be sharing their wealth of knowledge on various empowering topics. From insightful sessions, presentations to engaging conversations, they will be sharing key insights on how to seize global opportunities, monetize content on a global scale, and connect with platforms eager to collaborate with Nigerian producers. Date: April 4-5, 2024 Theme: The Opportunities and Challenges of Repositioning for Digital TV Broadcast, Content Monetization and Distribution Our lineup of speakers: Charles Ebuebu(@charles.ebuebu), Bode Odetoye , Dr. Busola Tejumola (@busola.tejumola), Amb. Dr(Mrs) Hajo Sani , Francis Nebot (@ifind_pictures), Chinnylove Eze (@chinneyloveofficial), Shujah F. , Simon Tchokonte , Colette Otusheso (@colette_otusheso ), Ayo Animashaun (@ayoanimashaun), Olajumoke Yosola Akindeju (@yosolami) , Murphy Anawana (@murphy_anawana), Jacques Van Hollebeke , Soji Frank Gboya (@sojigboya), ljeoma Onah, Christophe Pecot, Renaud Ganascia, Ange YAO , Alexandre Boudet , Karine Barclais , Femi Ogundoro (@femiogundoro), Jacques Barreau , 📡Denis Pagnac , Benoit Provost , Dr. Morayo Afolabi-Brown (@morayobrown ), Jean-Baptiste Julliat, Jude Idada #NIFSummit #nitvsummitparis #africanmedia #acceleratetv #thejourneycontinues
The Pink Foundry has steadily emerged as a growing force in Kenya’s PR industry, boasting an impressive roster of clients including industry giants like L’Oreal, Lipton, Red Bull, and the Gulf African Bank. - Founded by Terryanne Chebet in 2020, this boutique firm is reshaping the communication landscape with tailored strategies and creative storytelling designed to foster meaningful connections with target audiences. Committed to empowering brands through compelling narratives, The Pink Foundry offers a comprehensive suite of services, including strategic communication, strategic events, public relations, and media training. - Leveraging her rich background in broadcast media as a renowned TV anchor and media strategy expert, Terryanne Chebet leads The Pink Foundry with a vision to redefine industry norms. Under her leadership, The Pink Foundry is pioneering new PR approaches, cementing its status as an innovative partner for both corporate and personal brands looking to strengthen their presence on traditional and digital media platforms. - 👉🏾 ᴄʜᴇᴄᴋ ᴏᴜᴛ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ɪɴsᴘɪʀɪɴɢ ᴇɴᴛʀᴇᴘʀᴇɴᴇᴜʀs ᴀᴛ ᴛʜᴇ ʟɪɴᴋ ɪɴ ᴏᴜʀ ʙɪᴏ ✅ ʟɪᴋᴇ, sʜᴀʀᴇ & ғᴏʟʟᴏᴡ @spotlightethio ғᴏʀ ᴍᴏʀᴇ ᴄᴏɴᴛᴇɴᴛ! . . . . . . . . #terryannechebet #thepinkfoundry #africanbrands #kenyanbrands #digitalbrand #africanbrandcreation #kenyanjournalist #kenyanbusiness #digitalafrica #africaninfluencer #kenyaninfluencer #kenya #kenyanentrepreneurs #kenyancontentcreator #africanmedia #africancontentcreator #africanbusiness #africandiaspora #kenyandiaspora #kenyanbusiness #kenyancelebrities #eastafrican #madeinkenya #eastafrica #madeinafrica #spotlightethio
Basketry or basket making, known as ‘ikpa nkata’ in certain parts of Igboland, is widely considered to be one of the oldest crafts known to mankind. However, due to the biodegradable nature of most of the materials used, it is difficult to trace the exact origins of the craft. However, in Igboland, basket making appears to predate any archaeological findings of pottery 💡 Collectively referred to as 'ekete' in some dialects, and ‘ikata’ or ‘ide’ in others, the baskets were predominantly woven by women and came in a variety of shapes, sizes, and textures, each with a specific use. According to research, the flat, oval-shaped type used to dry food items was widely known as 'ngara', while the rectangular type was called ‘avo’/abo’. The avo basket was known as the breadwinner's basket because it is used for carrying yams – a staple crop in Igboland. Popularly used materials included willow (also known as 'igu nkwu' or ‘emere’) and the cane ('apipia' or 'ana'). The palm frond was used because of its strength, flexibility and elasticity. However, obtaining the fronds was not easy, as it involved either climbing the trees yourself or paying others to do this. Using three basic weave styles or patterns – rending, pairing and wailing – the basket makers made use of cutters, locally-made pliers, hammers (nkuni), and knives (mma) to skillfully create these works of #art. Certain baskets were even decorated with local dyes such as uhe, odo, and akwukwo ohia. 📸: Wikimedia Commons #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory
For many centuries, Ndigbo have created and used symbols to communicate compelling messages that represent aspects of their lives and culture. Known by our forefathers as the “fertility tree,” and symbolising fruitfulness and abundance, much has been said about the udara/udala tree in connection to procreation/conception. Our ancestors believed that a woman seeking the fruit of the womb should sit, rest or pray beneath an udara tree, and it was a widely held belief that being presented with the fruit in a dream was a good sign. In fact, research shows that some Igbo communities used to organize a right of passage for their young girls, known as Emume Udara, and Ime Udara for the maidens and newly married daughters of the community. The young women would cook and bring the food to the udara tree, where they would feast, dance, and make merry, calling in the spirit of fertility. The udara tree is considered a communal tree in Igbo culture; it doesn’t belong to one person or family. Moreover, as its name suggests, the udara fruit is traditionally not plucked, but allowed to fall to the ground naturally before being eaten. During our visit to Uzoagba in Imo State last year, our team spoke to a respected community leader, Mr. Eronini, who explained that before gated fences became popular, people were free to wander around and pick any fallen udara they found; whoever touched a fruit first could claim it. Although today people can plant udara trees in their compounds and harvest them as they like, the trees found in public areas are still treated in the traditional way of our people 🌳 Although the sticky fruit is generally enjoyed around the harmattan season, it’s interesting to note that when udara seeds are planted, they often sprout whenever and wherever they like, reminding us that nature cannot be rushed. Rich in vitamin C and fibre, the #udara fruit has often been used in folk medicine, women’s health and traditional healing. We also learnt that in some Igbo communities, cutting down an udara tree is considered a taboo unless certain rites and rituals are performed. What other interesting facts do you know about the udara tree? 🤔 #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory
As of 2024, these #AfricanNations are the MOST popular: The #DemocraticRepublicOfCongo 🇨🇩 #Nigeria 🇳🇬 #CôteDIvoire 🇨🇮 #SouthAfrica 🇿🇦 #Ghana 🇬🇭 #Ethiopia 🇪🇹 In ONE HUNDRED (100) years from now: #AfricanNations of the future will be #SaoTomeAndPrincipe 🇸🇹 #Comoros 🇰🇲 #Lesotho 🇱🇸 #Zimbabwe 🇿🇼 #Algeria 🇩🇿 #RepublicOfChad 🇹🇩 💥 In 2014, I had the privilege to be interviewed by @unveilingafricatv R. I. P. #LUCOOM #AfricanMedia #LMPNYC1
1998-99 Cameroonian jersey #TheHotJem #AfricanMedia #AfricanLifestyle #AfricanLiving #AfricanCelebrities #FIFA #WorldCup #IndomitableLions #Lionslndomptables #Soccer
🎯 Seen on @bellanaija - our Founder @quintessentially_yvonne as she weighs in on her journey in the UAE PR & Comms landscape on @theroadtosuccesspod We'd like to thank Host and Founder of @theroadtosuccesspod @theladymayowa for the opportunity for Yvonne to share her story. Did you know that Mayowa 🇳🇬 and Yvonne 🇿🇼 are the leading media female personalities representing African expats out of the UAE? Cheers to women collaborating! #womeninmedia #womeninpr #uaeexpats #dubaimedia #narrativespr #roadtosuccess #africanvoices #africanmedia #collaboration #collaborationovercompetition #sheleads #sheleadsafrica
🚀 Exciting Announcement! 🚀 📢 We are thrilled to announce Erick Gavala, Representative of African Stream, as a SPEAKER for the Creative Workshop: Content Creation and Anti-Imperialist Media with African Stream! 🌍✨ 🗓️ Date: FRIDAY 22 MARCH, 2024 👨🏫 About Erick: Eric Cavala is a skilled personnel and project manager, known for his ability to turn ideas into captivating television stories. With a rich background in media, Eric has managed the development and execution of various programs, including Sports News Africa, broadcasted across 16 African countries. He has also led news coverage in 36 African countries for esteemed outlets like the South Africa Broadcasting Corporation (SABC) and China Global Television Network. Currently, Eric serves as the Operations Manager for African Stream. 📺 About African Stream: African Stream is a pioneering pan-African digital media organization that operates exclusively on social media platforms. Committed to amplifying the voices of Africans both at home and abroad, African Stream produces cutting-edge, African-centered content. We are incredibly excited to welcome African Stream to our summit and to host this engaging workshop! Don’t miss the chance to learn from Erick Gavala and African Stream at the LSE Africa Summit 2024! 🎥🌟 #LSEAfricaSummit #LSE #lseafricasummit2024 #LONDON #AFRICA #ContentCreation #AfricanMedia 📣🌍
Monday night in Addis. Join us Wednesday at 6PM. #mma #mma4africa #bjj #bjj4africa #brazilianjiujitsu #lionheartinitiative #hyperfly #fitethiopiawi #habeshafitness #warriorking #kaobjj #kao #ethiopia #linkupaddis #linkupaddismagazine #africanmedia #addisababa #wcma
This girl from Mitchell's Plain, Cape Town 🇿🇦 is the FIRST African Scholar to do a Masters thesis on the Representations of Body Positivity in African Media. Please follow your dreams, everybody! And do everything possible to make them come true. ________________________________ HERE IS MY STORY : When I started my Masters thesis in 2018, I already wanted to give up. I spent a year writing and rewriting because my ideas were not received well and were constantly rejected. And as such, in 2019, I was assigned a new supervisor. After being connected with my new supervisor, things started looking positive, and the writing process was flawless. My supervisor was tremendously supportive throughout my journey, and we worked very well together! However, in that same year, I was body shamed by an online fitness store. I was devastated, but it inspired me to PERSIST with my study. The body shaming incident taught me that we need a study like this in South Africa. I wrote my research proposal and submitted it within 6 months. After my proposal was approved in 2020, yip, you guessed it! Lockdown and COVID-19 happened, which delayed me by another year! A whole YEAR. Apart from that, the thesis was really difficult to put together because there wasnt any African based studies that focused on the representations of Body Positivity in African Media. But I pulled through and opened up a new research conversation for aspiring African scholars like me. I never gave up on this dream! I submitted my final thesis in September 2022 and was supposed to graduate in April 2023, but due to another admin mishap, I graduated in September 2023. Still I rise, And here I am... I did it and I'm absolutely happy I came this far. NEVER EVER GIVE UP ON YOURSELF, NO MATTER WHAT LIFE THROWS AT YOU. Once you achieve something that you are proud of, you will forget about all the hiccups and the time it took you to get there. KEEP GOING. KEEP PUSHING! My story doesn't end here... #PhD I'm coming for YOU! 🤩 #graduate #scholar #bodypositive #feministscholar #followyourdreams #africanmedia #dreamsdocometrue #keeppushing #mondaymotivation #mitchellsplain
The story of Mary Nwametu Nzimiro, who rose from petty trader to become a world renowned merchant and one of the first female Igbo millionaires of her time, begins on 16 October 1898. Born to David Onumonu Uzoaru and Ruth Nwanyiafor Onumonu of Umudei village in Oguta, Imo State, her father worked with the Royal Niger Company, and was appointed a Warrant Chief, cementing his high status in society. Mary's mother was a wealthy palm produce trader who was widely recognized as a leading merchant in the old Owerri province. Mrs Onumonu understood that in order to create real generational wealth, she needed to pass down more than just money to her children; she imparted knowledge, directing them on how to interact with foreign traders and where to invest capital. She is said to have opened international bank accounts for her daughters in the 1920s, and provided the first foreign contacts that later gave Mary a good start in her business career ✨ Mary attended the first primary school in Oguta, Sacred Heart Primary School, and was the only girl in the school at the time. She graduated from St. Joseph’s Girls’ Convent in Asaba in 1920 and married Richard Okwosha Nzimiro, an agent of United Africa Company (UAC). By 1921, she had started trading in palm oil, salt and European merchandise. As a young trader, Mary used the benefits of the colonial era – the introduction of a common currency, improved transportation systems and increased urbanisation – to her advantage. When the railway line and seaport in Port Harcourt were constructed, driving business away from Oguta, she steered her enterprise in that direction. While there, Mary added textiles and cosmetics to her trade, first engaging in retail trade, then wholesale and direct importation of goods. She was so successful that by 1948, she had become the principal agent of the UAC for the entire Eastern Nigerian Region, representing the Company in Ghana and Sierra Leone. During a standard sales probe in 1950, Nzimiro testified that her estimated monthly turnover was roughly £6,000 - £8,000! 💷 Lavishly rich, but generous at heart... [Cont'd in comments ⬇️] Resource: www.ajol.info #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory
[Part 2] Due to the continuous nature of the warp thread, the finished length of the Akwete cloth is twice the height of the loom, with one end slightly wider than the other, and one side longer than the other, creating an uneven but unique tension in the fabric. No one can say for certain whether this imbalance was intentional or simply a technical matter, but it certainly adds character to the cloth, making it easier to tie as a wrapper, but also more difficult to replicate. The machine-woven imitations are simply no match for the quality of the original Akwete style. Despite its origins and exclusivity, there were other Akwete weaving centres in the Eastern provinces at Nsukka, Udi and Abakaliki areas; the Nsukka weavers called their fabric Orii. However, Akwete weavers were more inventive as well as receptive to change and innovation, as contact with Europeans had brought about improved quality, patterns and designs, as well as a larger market 🌠 According to researcher Marian Davis, another factor that affected cloth weaving was the importation of broadloom and machine-made yarns into Igboland around 1945. Despite the added expense, Akwete weavers adopted the colourful machine-made yarns in place of local cotton threads in their weaving, keeping their industry alive and producing more vibrant cloths. In order to cut costs, a village cooperative was established in the early 1960s, which signalled a marked departure from tradition and evoked mixed reactions from the women. All the same, when the Textile Museum in Washington, D.C. held an exhibition on the Akwete cloth in 1963, it became even more recognizable globally. This not only increased demand for Akwete cloths, but also increased the number of weavers, as more women took it up as a full time occupation with the establishment of a Textile Training Center at Aba which produced famous weavers like Madam Jorji Nmereji Mgbokwo, whose statue still stands in Akwete today (swipe to see picture) ➡️ 📸: www.bolakoka.com/2021/01/24/the-akwete-textile/ #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #WomensHistoryMonth #Textiles
#WomensHistoryMonth ✨ The Akwete cloth is a distinctive hand woven textile produced by the women of Akwete town in Abia State. Skilfully weaving sisal-hemp, wool, raffia and spun cotton into gorgeous cloths, the history of the craft can be traced to a mysterious woman named Dada Nwakwata, who is said to have received the gift of weaving in a dream during the 19th century. Since palm oil trading was at its peak in Igboland at this time, some believe that Dada actually studied the cloth patterns of items brought in by foreign traders between the 14th and 16th centuries, and adapted the weave structures to create unique designs that suited local tastes. Either way, it’s clear that Dada Nwankata had the magic touch - her work was bold and unusual, and her technique remained a secret until she died. Later, it was a close friend, the only witness to her weaving, that revealed her formula. Passed down from mothers to daughters, it is said that every Akwete woman knew how to weave the geometric patterns of the cloth. They weave on wide, upright wall looms known as Nkwe, with cloths of about 100 to 127 cm (40 to 50 inches) wide. According to studies, young girls begin weaving as soon as their arms are long enough to work the loom. They begin with simple designs in small sections, improving as their arms grow and strengthen. The warp thread that is used is continuous, which creates a solid colour background for the motifs and patterns. The four main patterns in #Akwete cloth include: Etirieti (George), which is a plaid-like pattern made up of stripes and squares; Ogbanaonweya, which consists of an intricate pattern used mostly by the Akwete community; Akpukpa, a vibrant pattern that is favoured amongst foreigners, and Ahia, which is described as a complex design that is controlled by the number of heddles (a cord or wire) that the thread passes through 🧵 Many of the women’s designs were said to come through divine inspiration, and so the weavers were discouraged from copying each other. Instead, when a gifted weaver died, her motifs could no longer be made, and existing cloths containing them increased in value. [Cont'd in comments ⬇️] #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory
🌟 Welcome to AfroHollywoodTv 🌟 New beginnings start now! Join us on our journey! #africanmedia #africans #afrobeats #afro #africanfashion #africanart #africanstyle #africanculture #africandishes #africaninspired
This #InternationalWomensDay, we salute the great Igbo scribes who have written themselves into history: Flora Nwapa, widely known as the mother of modern African Literature; Buchi Emecheta, whose themes of motherhood and women’s empowerment gained her global respect, and Chimamanda Ngozi Adichie, who has quickly become one of the most recognizable names in the literary world 🖊️ We praise the pioneers: Ada Priscilla Nzimiro, widely credited as being the first Igbo female medical doctor; Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, the first woman and first African to lead the World Trade Organization as Director-General; Chinyere Kalu, who paved the way as the first female pilot in Nigeria and inspired a generation of young girls to reach for the sky ✈️ And what shall we say of the amazons? The formidable Dora Nkem Akunyili, who waged war against counterfeit drugs, saving countless lives in Nigeria, while Stella Chinyelu Okoli (the founder and current managing director of Emzor, one of Nigeria’s largest pharmaceutical companies) seems to have taken up the mantle. We honour the likes of Onyeka Onwenu, the “elegant stallion” who sang her way into our hearts and remains a force to be reckoned with. And who can forget Chioma Ajunwa, the first Nigerian to win gold at the 1996 Summer Olympics and who, to this day, remains the only woman to compete at both the FIFA Women's World Cup as a footballer and the Olympics as a track and field athlete! 🥇 As we recognize these and many other exceptional women in the world, we also recognise that every woman's story — whether she goes on to become a world leader or simply the leader of her own life — begins when she is given a fair chance. And so we join the rest of the world in echoing this year's #WomensDay theme... "Invest in women: Accelerate progress" ✊🏾 #InvestInWomen #IgboHistory #NZUKOBrand #IWD2024
Dubbed a living legend, both within the Nigerian entertainment industry and the Igbo community, Pete Edochie is a well-known name. Admired for his easy eloquence and warm charisma, his fatherly words of wisdom and ageless talent, the veteran actor commands respect wherever he goes. Although born in Zaria, Kaduna State, on the 7th of March 1947, Edochie hails from Nteje, Anambra State. Spending most of his early life in the North, he attended St. Patrick’s and St. James Primary School before continuing his education at St. John's College. Edochie received professional training as a broadcaster and in 1967, at the age of 20, embarked on his broadcasting journey, eventually rising to the position of Deputy Managing Director of Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS). Two years later, Pete married Josephine, a colleague at the time, and now his wife of 55 years. In 1985, the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA) undertook an adaptation of Chinua Achebe’s classic novel, Things Fall Apart. Pete, then 38, was recommended for the lead role. Following auditions at the main auditorium of the University of Nigeria, Enugu campus, the crew was confident they had found Okonkwo in him. Though acknowledging the role's challenges, Edochie delivered a masterful performance, earning international awards and the moniker “Ebubedike” to this day. When Nollywood debuted seven years later with Living in Bondage, Pete Edochie joined, appearing in over 100 movies and television shows throughout his career 🎞️🎥 At 77, Ebubedike remains prominent in the media, advocating for the preservation of culture and values, particularly amongst young Igbos. As a father, husband, mentor and a philanthropic man of the people, Pete Edochie is as deeply loved and widely respected as many of us someday hope to be. Happy birthday! Resource: https://dailypost.ng/2023/09/17/ 📸: thewilldowntown.com | YT: Prochens Corner #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #PeteEdochie #Nollywood
Today, we honor Mo Abudu, a trailblazer in African media and a champion of diversity and inclusion. Let’s keep shining a spotlight on remarkable women! #MoAbudu #AfricanMedia #AmachreeBrand
“Meanwhile, Celestine himself sang as he stood coolly onstage in a black turtleneck and a sportcoat, looking like a university professor. The message was clear: this was not necessarily music for dancing — even though the rhythms were compelling enough. This was music for the thinkers.” — Uchenna Ikonne Beginning in the early 1970s alongside his band, The Philosophers National, Celestine Ukwu established a radical shift in the possibilities of Nigerian Highlife by moving away from the typical mid-century style and producing, instead, an experience that was more thoughtful and evocative. To the refined ear, this is more than just music… This is a message. These are lyrics that remind you that there are songs that have a heartbeat. Born in 1940 in Agbor, a quiet town in Udi, Enugu State, Celestine was the son of a music-loving father who often played Igede, Okpa and Ode local music, and a mother who was the lead vocalist and dancer in a local women’s Egwu Amala musical group. His grandparents were folk performers, and his grandfather is said to have played the ekwe odo (xylophone) beautifully. Celestine’s uncle, a respected organist, taught him to play the harmonium, and it is this early musical background that served as a foundation for Celestine 🎶 After obtaining his teachers’ grade certificate in 1958, he joined Mike Ejeagha’s group as a vocalist, then later toured the continent with Congolese guitarist Piccolo's band. Returning after four years to form ‘Celestine Ukwu and The Music Royals’ in 1966, his band re-emerged with a new name, ‘Celestine Ukwu and His Philosophers National’ at the end of the Nigerian Civil War, composing a laid-back, melancholic form of highlife that featured prominent horns and often felt (to the listener) like a warm Sunday afternoon. Described as a poised and soft-spoken gentleman by friends, and considered a poet-musician, storyteller, composer, and oral historian by fans, Ukwu released a few albums in his short lifespan: “True Philosophy,” “Tomorrow is so Uncertain,” “Ndu Ka Aku”, “Ilo Abu Chi”, “Ejim Nk'onye” and “Igede Fantasia.” [Cont'd in comments ⬇️] Resource: muzicfan.com NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #CelestineUkwu
The Ikenga Super Stars of Africa, led by Vincent Okoroego, were a leading Igbo guitar highlife group that burst onto the music scene in 1973 as "The Nkengas". Looking to chart their own course, many of the early Ikenga members actually defected from the Nigeria Sound Makers band, cutting musical ties with bandleader Osita Osadebe. However, this separation was not free of controversy. Rumour has it that the Ikengas hijacked Osadebe’s master tape, which later became their legendary breakout album, ‘Nkengas in London’. Dubious beginnings aside, the band went on to record several LP’s, distinguishing themselves and becoming a household name in Africa and various parts of Europe as well 🎸 They called their style of music “Ikwokilikwo” – an upbeat form of highlife with an infectious bassline and irresistibly funky beats, which listeners got a good taste of when the group released its 1975 smash hit album, ‘Ikenga in Africa’. Like many popular highlife bands of its time, the Ikengas experienced numerous setbacks, internal changes and defections over the years. While always remaining an Igbo group at its core, the band gradually began to enlist musicians from other ethnic groups and other parts of West Africa. Blending Pidgin English with a sprinkling of Igbo in their lyrics, the band’s music appealed to a large audience, naturally cutting across ethnic lines. In this sense, some critics have written, the Ikengas were part of a broader movement in Nigerian music that saw more artists like Prince Nico Mbarga using Pidgin in their songs. But as the subgenre began to fizzle out in the early eighties, so did the Ikengas, and the band finally broke apart in 1984. By the end of the Ikenga's 11-year run (and numerous iterations), listeners enjoyed several albums including “Ikenga Go Marry Me” and “Onye Weli We,” as well as countless evergreen tunes like the Fela Kuti-inspired anthem “Soffry Soffry Catch Monkey” and the feel-good, gospel-tinged sound of “Tinye Onwe Gi Obi Oma”. 🌟 What's your favourite Super Stars song? Share with us in the comments! 📷: last.fm; discorgs.com #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #IgboMusic
Oji (kola nut) and nzu (white chalk) are two of the most respected and frequently used substances in Igbo culture, as both play a central part in many social and ritual gatherings. Offered to visitors as a sign of hospitality and goodwill, both oji and nzu are said to have sacred power and are believed to facilitate communication between people, while also connecting the human realm to the spiritual. Historically known for their love of beauty and distinctive artistic ability, the Igbos eventually began to design special containers for the ceremonial presentation of kola nuts and chalk. These bowls were known as Okwa Oji and Okwa Nzu, and the more elaborate ones were commonly found in the eastern and northeastern regions amongst the Ezza, Izzi, Bende, and Okigwe peoples. Kola and chalk bowls were often stored among the family’s kitchen utensils, but were set apart, handled with care and used for special occasions (much like fine china), even though they were not necessarily sacred vessels. These serving dishes were optional and do not appear to have carried any deeply symbolic meaning; more often than not, the embellished containers simply showed the owners’ affluence and good taste, while lending an air of dignity to any ceremony ✨ The most eye-catching kola bowls or platters featured a central cavity in which condiments such as alligator pepper and peppered peanut paste (ose oji) were placed. Carved in heavy wood or clay, the bowls typically had geometric carvings and thrilling designs on their outer rims and lids. Chalk dishes, on the other hand, were generally smaller and sometimes had as many as four internal divisions. Some of the more elaborate chalk bowls seen in Abiriba and Ohafia often had a long handle, giving the bowl a spoon-like appearance. Although these stunning serving containers were primarily used for decorative purposes only, they still make up a small but significant part of our artistic heritage and show us how our people incorporated beauty into everyday life. 📷: Jones' Archive @siuonline Resource: Herbert M. Cole and Chike C. Aniakor, Igbo arts: Community and cosmos (1984) #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory
Popular in precolonial times and carefully carved with precious wood, the ikenga is an important traditional symbol that carries deep, nostalgic associations for Ndigbo. Commonly owned by men, and occasionally by highly respected women, [an] ikenga signifies the owner’s potential for success and control over their own fate through tenacity. The sacred object embodies one’s chi, one’s ancestry (ndichie) and one’s personal power (ike) in connection to the power of the right arm/hand (overseen by the deity Ikenga), since the right hand represents strength, industry and personal achievement in Igbo custom. Although ikenga symbols differ in shape, size and design, they generally possess two horns which allude to the ram, an animal the Igbos admire for its characteristic determination. According to M.A. Onwuejeogwu, the horns remind the owner of the ikenga to approach life and business with the stubbornness of a ram, ready to face any obstacles head on! 💪🏽 The smaller ikenga carvings were mostly for personal use, often carried in the travel kits of healers, diviners, hunters, artisans and traders. The more elaborate forms ranged from one foot to six feet and boasted amazing designs. Other forms of ikenga are dominated by human features like legs, hands and other body parts. While some resemble the classic maiden spirit masks, others bear scarification (ichi) marks and appear fierce. Some ikenga figures stand and others sit, but the human-like types often carry objects in their hands: a machete in the right hand and a skull in the left; a carved tusk or iron staff in the right hand – all symbolizing success and victory 💫 Standing up to six feet or more, the group ikenga symbol is either kept by the elders of a community or placed in a communal shrine. Beyond this, some Igbo communities dedicate one month of their liturgical cycle to Ikenga, while some localities even organize elaborate communal festivals to honour the spirit. Normally, when the owner dies, their personal ikenga is split into two and buried with them, signifying the end of a fruitful life. [Cont'd in the comments 👇🏽] 📷: Jones Archive @siuonline #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory
Arguably one of the most influential African artists of his time, Ben Enwonwu remains widely known as the father of Nigerian Modernist art. An M.B.E. (Member of the Order of the British Empire) and holder of countless awards, Enwonwu died on February 5, 1994 at the age of 76. Best known for his prolific paintings and sculptures, his bashful smile and the little flowers he often wore in his lapels, many critics have argued that his significance was underappreciated, due in large part to his willingness to straddle the fence between Pan-Africanism and colonial governance. All the same, the quiet sophistication, bold African underpinnings and universal appeal of his work have been a great source of inspiration for many young artists and will continue to stand the test of time 🌠 Swipe to read more about the great Igbo artist and his emotive work! 👉🏽 📸: @benenwonwufoundation #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #BenEnwonwu #Art
Art has always been an intrinsic part of Igbo culture; by bringing art into the celebration of life, the Igbo invariably bring life into art. Inspired by her Igbo roots, a deep connection to the spirit realm and the Agbogho Mmuo masquerade, Chiagoziem Nneamaka Orji (@agoziemart)'s artwork is vivid, expressive and alive with meaning. “I want people to look at each piece and see movement,” she tells us as we join her in conversation about her art, the direct link between creativity and spirituality, and her personal journey as a young creator 🎨🖌️ The talented artist’s love for stories and Igbo literature is reflected in the way her work appears; every piece tells a story, beginning with the title and extending to every minute detail. Hit www.nzukobrand.com/articles/chiagoziem to feast your eyes on Orji’s timeless pieces and read the full interview! #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory
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Crowned the Most Beautiful Girl in Nigeria (MBGN) in 1988, Bianca Odumegwu-Ojukwu has been considered a Nigerian beauty icon for decades. Known then as Bianca Onoh, she scooped up the crown as Miss Africa in 1989, and later went on to win international pageants such as Miss Intercontinental. This earned her national attention, however, her popularity rose to new heights when information was leaked in the press that she was in a romantic relationship with the ex-Biafran veteran, Chukwuemeka Odumegwu Ojukwu 👀 At the time, she was 21 years old and he was 56, making the rumours all the more scandalous. Since MBGN title holders were forbidden from engaging in public love affairs during their reign, the controversial romance quickly became a national talking point. Although she neither acknowledged nor debunked her affair with Ojuwku at the time, Bianca relinquished her crown. Although Dim Chukwuemka Odumegwu Ojukwu was considered "the lion of the tribe of Biafra" amongst many Igbos, and generally respected within political spaces around the world, the former General was also known as being quite the ladies’ man behind closed doors. With his silky voice and thoughtful oratory, it is said that Ojukwu combined romantic poetry with love letters, spinning women’s heads and surprising them with his tenderness. A lover of beauty and art, Ojukwu had the money, charisma and educational background to woo his love interests, and had already been in 3 separate marriages before serenading Bianca 🌹 After completing her education as a Law student at the University of Nigeria, Bianca married the Biafran leader in a lavish wedding ceremony held in Abuja on 12 November 1994, without her father's blessing. While many predicted that the marriage would not last, Bianca (who had come in contact with several powerful political figures during her father's time as Governor of Anambra State) seemed to fit seamlessly into Ojukwu’s life... [Cont'd in the comments 👇🏽] Resource: https://thecolourfulheart.wordpress.com/ #NZUKOBrand #IgboHistory #Ojukwu #ValentinesDay