Beautiful Nigeria: Longest Beach In West Africa, Ibeno Beach, Akwa Ibom State

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August 29, 2022

Ibeno Beach stretches for about 30 kilometres from Ibeno to James Town along the Atlantic coastline of Akwa Ibom State in Nigeria.

Ibeno Local Government Area is located at the South end of Akwa Ibom State, occupying a vast coastal area of over 1,200 sq. km.

It stretches from Okposo I at the eastern flank, bordering Mbo Local Government Area and Bakassi Pennisula to Atabrikang village on its Western flank.

It is bounded in the South by the Atlantic Ocean and shares border with Eket, Esit Eket, Onna and Eastern Obolo local government areas.

It is said to be the longest beach in West Africa.

With its beautiful coastline, Ibeno provides endless natural facilities for tourism, water sporting, beach soccer and general boating.

The endless white sand dunes extending as far as the eyes can see along the Atlantic are unaltered by the waves that pour violently on the seashore.

History has it that the area was first occupied around 1200-1500 BC by Ibeno indigenes.

The alluring array of trees lined along the beach provides good shelter from the burning rays of the sun for visitors looking for shade after sunbathing or taking strolls about the place.

The beach provides an ample view of the Gulf of Guinea over which the scattered gas flares from ExxonMobil offshore oil platforms create a scintillating image of flaming tongues of fire on the sea.

Ibeno beach is the longest sand beach and most popular beach in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. It’s a fantastic beach that showcases the best of natural Nigeria.

Ibeno beach is located in Ibeno Local Government Area and is South of Eket LGA.

Ibeno is also very popular for tourism since it was the landing site of the qua Ibo christian missions from scotland which was one of the most successful christian missions in Nigeria, in the early 20th century leading to the conversion of many Nigerians to the faith, Ibeno Houses a lot of relic of that missionary expedition.

Ibeno is also home to the Mobil/Exxon QIT terminal where crude oil is processed for export all over the world and has seasoned guards on patrol 24 hours a day to keep visitors safe and to ensure orderliness.

Exploring Langkawi Skybridge, Malaysia

By

Angel Gimalo

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August 29, 2022

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The Langkawi Skybridge is the longest free span and curved pedestrian bridge in the world, located in Malaysia.

The bridge deck is located 660 metres (2,170 ft) above sea level at the peak of Gunung Mat Chinchang on Pulau Langkawi, an island in the Langkawi archipelago in Kedah.

Located 2,300ft above sea level, the Sky Bridge is easily accessible by the Langkawi Cable Car.

The journey to the top starts out at the Oriental Village in the upper northwest of Langkawi Island, near Pantai Kok.

Once the cable car gets going it gets a little chilly as winds flow through the ventilation slits at the top, so put on a sweater beforehand.

The bridge is 125 meters long, and 1.8 meters wide (the middle section has a wider walkway), with two steel railings as well as steel wire mesh on either sides.

It is designed as a curved walkway to maximize the viewing experience, providing shifting perspective as a visitor walks along the bridge.

The walkway, formed of steel and concrete panels set on top of an inverted triangular truss, connects two hilltops at Gunung Mat Chinchang.

The first 25m of the bridge is straight, following 3 curved 25m sections, then a final straight 25m section.

At each end of the walkway, the bridge has a 3.6m-wide triangular viewing platform that serves as resting and viewing areas for visitors.

The bridge is suspended by 8 cables from a 81.5m high single pylon, and hangs at about 100m above ground.

The pylon is anchored onto a concreted pad set at an elevation of 604.5m, and its tip reached 686m above sea level.

It is inclined at angles of 78° and 2° in two directions, and supported by two cables.

The bridge is designed to carry a maximum capacity of 200 persons.

Officially the bridge was opened in February 2005, and costed $1.2 million.

There were some repairs made between 2012 and 2015, during which time it was closed for visitors, however, it was opened again in December.

So, it may sound like a cliché but it is really true. The views from the bridge are simply stunning, great for those picturesque moments!

The views on the way to the top of Langkawi’s second-highest peak include those of the Telaga Tujuh Waterfalls and the rain-forest.

After traveling a bit upwards, the cable car levels outs and stops at the Sky Bridge, the final station.

Those with a fear of heights might be a little afraid of the altitude, but it is a very safe bridge with double steel railings and an enclosed wire mesh, from where you will make stunning pictures and have a quite an experience to tell about.

Abia Poly’s Accreditation Restored Says State Commissioner

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Rhoda Onuzulike

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August 29, 2022

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The Abia Commissioner for Information, Chikamnayo Eze, has announced the restoration of the accreditation of Abia State Polytechnic, Aba.

Eze made the announcement during a press briefing at the Government House, Umuahia on Monday.

LN247 reports that the National Board of Technical Education (NBTE) had on July 19, 2022, announced the withdrawal of the accreditation of Abia State Polytechnic owing to over 30 months of unpaid salaries.

He said that this was in fulfillment of the state government’s promise to ensure that the accreditation of the institution would be restored within a month.

According to him, this was made possible through the efforts of the state government which include release of N450 million to the institution for the settlement of four months of salary arrears.

“Also the state government has put into force sustainable measures to ensure that best practices will be upheld in the operations of the institution moving forward,” the commissioner said.

Eze noted that the institution as a semi-autonomous organisation ought to have ensured prompt payment of salaries.

He commended the committee set up to interface with NBTE on the matter for doing an excellent job.

The commissioner said that the state government had instituted measures that would ensure that the institution does not experience interrupted academic sessions going forward.

Artists Celebrate As Art Jakarta Resumes After Hiatus

By

Koko Lawrence

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August 29, 2022

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Two years since the last Art Jakarta was held, the fair is back and stronger than ever – with galleries, artists, collectors, and curious observers flocking to the Jakarta Convention Center.

The return of the fair, which began on Friday and is now in its 12th iteration, marks the first major art event in Indonesia since the pandemic began.

Its primary purpose is commercial – to connect artists, galleries, and other stakeholders with potential buyers.

More than 60 galleries from Indonesia and elsewhere in Asia are showing their collections at the fair. More than 500 artists will attend, and more than 25,000 visitors are expected.

“Indonesia is a superpower when it comes to art. It has strong output and a strong scene. It stayed intact and was able to re-establish itself and come back strong. Everyone is happy to be here,” Gil Schneider, consultant for Art Jakarta, said.

“The most important thing is to show the market is strong, and there is demand. Collectors are back, buying art. We are happy to see that sales are strong, and the market is back on its feet.”

This year’s event also has a distinctly celebratory tone. It is a reunion for Indonesia’s established art world, a chance to reconnect, as the country’s creatives emerge from a difficult period.

“It’s not just the artists, but those who display art, like galleries and art management, everyone is excited to work together again. Slowly, we can see the situation is getting better,” said one of the artists at the fair, Depok-based artist Meliantha Muliawan.

Esti Nurjadin, the owner of D Gallerie in south Jakarta, said she’s enthusiastic about showing her pieces in person again.

“This is the first big event for art, and it has made us very excited, after two years of everything being online. It was difficult for galleries,” she said. “For us, to be able to get to the point of transaction, we need to meet in person. Collectors want to see the art and experience it – rather than looking at it on a screen.”

One of the pieces she is displaying is by Indonesian artist Soni Irawan. Ten guitars are stuck to the wall, but the bodies of the instruments have been swapped out for briefcases.

“It is difficult to take a picture and show this on a screen. If you are here, you can see the depth, you can imagine: What would this look like in my home or office? Showing an artwork like this online will not have the same feel or grab people’s attention.”

Making Caribbean Cobb Salad With Salmon

By

Olasunbo Okoromi

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August 29, 2022

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Are you in the mood to eat the rainbow, this Caribbean-inspired Cobb salad is the place to start. A bit brighter than the traditional Cobb salad, this version combines fresh mango, creamy coconut dressing, and spiced salmon to create a punchy, spicy, filling meal. Crushed plantain chips and sweet bell pepper add a satisfying crunch. If you aren’t a salmon fan, you can easily swap out chicken, shrimp, or whatever protein you’re in the mood for!

Fresh veggies and a dynamite dressing are one thing, but here’s the real secret to good salad—season the lettuce! Sprinkle a pinch of salt on the lettuce before building your salad to make sure you have flavor in each bite.

This salad gets a lot of its flavor from the seasoning paste that’s rubbed on the salmon and used in the dressing. Since the paste has sugar in it, the outside of the salmon will start to brown much more quickly than it usually would. Don’t freak out if it starts to blacken—it’s not burnt.

All the the talk about this Caribbean Cobb Salad might have gotten you hungry, so here’s the recipe. Enjoy!

INGREDIENTS

4 tsp. light brown sugar

4 tsp. reduced-sodium soy sauce

1 tbsp. onion powder

2 tsp. garlic powder

1 tsp. cayenne pepper

1 tsp. dried thyme

1 tsp. ground ginger

1/2 tsp. ground allspice

2 tbsp. plus 2 tsp. fresh lime juice, divided

4 (4-oz.) salmon fillets

Kosher salt

Freshly ground black pepper

2/3 c. canned coconut milk

2 tsp. chopped fresh cilantro

1/4 c. plus 2 tbsp. neutral oil, divided

2 large heads of romaine lettuce, chopped

1 mango, peeled, finely chopped

1 large red bell pepper, seeded, finely chopped

1 avocado, sliced

4 scallions, sliced

1 c. chopped purple cabbage

1 c. plantain chips

3/4 c. cotija cheese

DIRECTIONS

In a small bowl, mix brown sugar, soy sauce, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, ginger, allspice, and 4 teaspoons lime juice until a thick paste forms. Season each salmon fillet with a generous pinch of salt and black pepper. Rub fillets with 2 tablespoons seasoning paste and let sit 10 minutes; reserve remaining seasoning paste.

In a small bowl, whisk coconut milk, cilantro, 1/4 cup oil, remaining 2 teaspoons lime juice, and reserved seasoning paste; set dressing aside.

In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat remaining 2 tablespoons oil. Cook salmon until flesh easily flakes with a fork, 2 to 3 minutes per side (the marinade will blacken as the salmon cooks). Transfer to a plate.

Arrange lettuce on a platter or divide among plates; season with a pinch of salt. Add rows or small piles of mango, bell pepper, avocado, scallions, cabbage, and chips. Sprinkle with cheese and top with salmon.

Drizzle salad with half of dressing; season with a pinch of salt. Serve with remaining dressing alongside.

Make Ahead: Dressing can be made 2 days ahead. Store in an airtight container and refrigerate. Let come to room temperature and whisk before serving.

There you have it, this delicious salad will make a great lunch, make sure to try it out soon.

Yobe approves Employment of 134 Health personnel

By

Cleopatra Okohai

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August 29, 2022

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The Governor of Yobe, Mai Mala Buni has approved the employment of 134 health personnel to boost healthcare delivery in the state.

Buni, in a statement by his Director-General Press and Media Affairs, Alhaji Mamman Mohammed in Damaturu, said the health personnel graduated from Shehu Sule College of Nursing and Midwifery, Damaturu.

The health personnel included 67 midwives, 12 nurses, and 55 community nurses.

The governor also approved the placement of 167 nursing students in the college on a monthly allowance of N10,000 each.

He said investment in the training of health personnel was necessary, to provide adequate and qualified manpower for various health institutions across the state.

Buni charged the new employees to be dedicated to their duties and serve the people diligently to justify the government’s investment in them.

Transfer Update: Onyedika Pens 5 Year Deal With Club Brugge

By

Emenike Agu

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August 29, 2022

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Belgian top division side Club Brugge have confirmed the signing of Nigerian midfielder Raphael Onyedika from Danish club FC Midtjylland,

The club announced the signing of the Nigerian on their official website on Sunday.

The reigning champions of Belgian First Division A beat other suitors, including Serie A champions, AC Milan, to the signing of the youngster.

After winning the Danish league’s Young Player of The Year Award, following his impressive performances last season, Onyedika emerged as a top transfer target for a lot of European clubs, with the Italian champions the leading suitors.

Onyedika enjoyed a great season at Midtllyand last term and was instrumental to the club’s success, a display which saw Milan open negotiations with the Danish club to complete the signing of the Nigerian.

However, after having their second bid of €6.5m for the 21-year-old rejected, Milan dumped their chase for the player and shifted their focus to Bordeaux’s Jean Onana and Wolfsburg man Aster Vranckx.

After much speculation surrounding the future of the talented midfielder, Brugge on Sunday announced the arrival of the Nigerian.

Club Brugge and FC Midtjylland reached an agreement today about the definitive transfer of Raphael Onyedika,” the club wrote.

“Onyedika (21) is a defensive midfielder who can also play centrally in the defence. He was trained at the Nigerian FC Ebedei and came to Europe in 2019. After a loan to FC Fredericia, he broke through last season with the main squad of Midtjylland. Onyedika impressed in the Danish top league and in the Europa League and won the cup. His good performances were rewarded with an election as the best young player in Denmark.

“He signs a contract until 2027.”

The announcement came hours after manager Carl Hoefkens, in his cryptic message, confirmed that the midfielder was on his way to joining the club.

“I hope to see him (Onyedika) very soon with us,” Hoefkens said, as per Walfoot.

“I just want to work with the best players possible. I know he’s quality, so I’m looking forward to it.”

Onyedika will wear jersey number 15 for his new club.

Transfer Update: United Ready To Pay Record €140m For Osimhen

By

Emenike Agu

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August 29, 2022

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Manchester United are preparing a whopping €140m bid for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen before the end of the summer transfer window.

According to Il Mattino, a reputable Naples-based outlet, Cristiano Ronaldo’s agent, Jorge Mendes, has told the Serie A giants to expect a massive offer for the Nigeria international.

Mendes has been working to secure a move for Ronaldo, who wants to play in the Champions League this season.

Il Mattino claims that Manchester United are even willing to fund a large part of Ronaldo’s wages as part of a deal which would allow them to replace the Portuguese star with Osimhen.

The Serie A side are looking to sell the Nigerian to facilitate Ronaldo’s arrival from Old Trafford, with a deal that could be worth up to €140m expected to be discussed between the two clubs in the coming days.

Having narrowly won against Southampton on Saturday, many fans believe United lack a prolific goal-hungry striker and Osimhen could be the perfect fit to end United’s goals-scoring woes.

Napoli are reportedly keen to bring Ronaldo back to Serie A, as the veteran forward looks to leave Old Trafford to secure Champions League football. He has already offered himself to several sides in Europe, including Milan and Inter.

Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis is an admirer of Ronaldo and is willing to cash €140m for Osimhen.

Osimhen was once a target of Arsenal and Tottenham, but only fellow interested party Newcastle may be willing to splash over £100m on the star.

If Osimhen’s deal goes through, Ronaldo’s bogus £360,000-a-week wages will not be a problem for Napoli as Laurentiis plans to use Italy’s tax laws to aid his pursuit.

The law provides tax cuts for Italian clubs buying foreign players from abroad – which means Napoli could save 50 per

Meanwhile, Napoli boss Luciano Spalletti disclosed there is “nothing concrete” at the moment between Napoli, Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo, but explained it “wouldn’t be a swap with Victor Osimhen” if it did happen.

Speaking at a press conference, Spalletti said, “If you’re asking me if I’d like to work with Ronaldo, I tell you no coach would say no to that. However, if we go into those areas, the journalists like to fill in for themselves, then as Osimhen’s agent said, there are no negotiations.

“De Laurentiis, he told me that he received no offer, so let’s remain as realistic as possible here and take into consideration only things that could happen.

“There are only a few days left in the transfer window, it seems unlikely that could go through. There is nothing concrete at the moment.

“It wouldn’t be a swap, it would be two different signings, in that case. One of the two can turn a game by himself. But in any case, at the moment we should not consider things that won’t help us pick up three points in Florence.”

Osimhen has enjoyed a stellar start to the 2022/23 season, scoring in both opening Serie A matches as Napoli wallopped Hellas Verona and Monza via an aggregate score of 9-2.

Brought in from Lille in a club record deal worth €70m in 2020, the 23-year-old forward has experienced good fortunes in southern Italy.

A move to Napoli could be the answer to Ronaldo’s dream of playing in the Champions League this season.

Ireti Doyle, Bob Manuel Udokwu Bag Honorary Doctorate Degrees

By

Koko Lawrence

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August 29, 2022

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Nollywood veteran actors, Ireti Doyle and Bobmanuel Udokwu have bagged honorary Doctorate Degrees from the Institut Supérieur de Communication et de Geston (ISCG University), Benin Republic.

Ireti announced the cheerie news in a social media post on Monday, where she posted photos of herself and her colleague at the ceremony.

The actress stated that though she had a healthy expectation of receiving accolades having put, and still putting in the work, at no point did she see a herself bagging a doctorate.

She thanked the University for the honour.

94 Nations Submit Films To Edo Film Festival

By

Koko Lawrence

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August 29, 2022

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According to the Edo State administration, 1,551 films from 94 different nations were submitted for the upcoming international film festival, which will take place at the Victor Uwaifo Creative Hub and other locations in the state from September 1 to September 4, 2022.

According to Dare Ukinebo, the managing director of the Edo State Skills Development Agency, a group of international jurors will watch every film and choose the best ones to be shown during the festival.

The festival’s co-chairman, Ukinebo, announced various categories, including “Best Student Filmmaking’, ‘Best Use of Technology’, and ‘Best Film Shot with a Phone or Tablet.”

According to Davidson Izegaegbe, the director of the Edo State Film Festival, the occasion is intended to promote the state’s film industry and introduce Nigerian filmmakers to a larger audience.

When revealing the festival’s logo, the commissioner for arts, culture, and diaspora affairs for Edo State emphasised that the festival is yet another effort to fulfil Governor Godwin Obaseki’s commitments to the state’s residents.